Klub Kildare and Newbridge United announce link up

Klub Kildare and Newbridge United have released details of a new strategic partnership between the two clubs that will see Newbridge United become an affiliate of the National League club.

In a statement, Klub Kildare said:

“Klub Kildare is delighted to confirm a new official affiliation with Newbridge United FC as part of our continued work to develop strong, clear football pathways across Kildare.

"This partnership is built on a shared ambition to support player development, improve coaching standards, and create better opportunities for young players within the county. By working closely together, both clubs aim to ensure players are identified, challenged, and supported at the appropriate stages of their development.

“As part of the affiliation, Newbridge United will benefit from a direct connection to the county’s League of Ireland academy, ongoing collaboration around talent identification and coach development, and access to the facility at FBD Hotels and Resorts Park, which will support both on-field development and long-term planning,” said the club.

In their statement, Newbridge United, who field teams in both the KDUL and KDFL, said:

“Newbridge United FC is delighted to announce that we have become an Official Affiliate Club of Klub Kildare, the League of Ireland academy representing our county at national level.

“This partnership represents a significant milestone for the club.” Their Vice-Chairperson, Andrew Boland, continued:

“This partnership represents a major milestone for Newbridge United. By connecting our grassroots structure with the county’s League of Ireland academy, we are creating clear pathways for our players to progress and ensuring our coaches have access to continued development. It’s a proud day for the club and an exciting moment for football in our community.” 

Newbridge United Club Secretary, Rowland Luttrell, added:

“Our goal has always been to create the best environment for children to learn, grow, and enjoy football. Working closely with Klub Kildare will help us raise standards across the club and open new opportunities for our players and coaches. We’re looking forward to a positive and constructive partnership in the years ahead.” 

Newbridge United said the partnership means they “will benefit from enhanced player development pathways, talent identification opportunities, coach education support, and a strong collaborative relationship that will help raise standards across all areas of the club.” 

Klub Kildare Director of Football, Jamie Smith, is delighted with the link up, the first of it’s kind between the National League and one of the grassroot clubs of the county.

“Newbridge United is a club with huge potential and all the ingredients to become one of the biggest clubs in the county. This affiliation is about working together in a practical and meaningful way to support players, coaches, and volunteers. By strengthening links between grassroots football and the League of Ireland pathway, and by opening up access to facilities like FBD Hotels and Resorts Park, we can raise standards and create more opportunities for young players in Kildare.” 

“Klub Kildare looks forward to developing a strong, positive relationship with Newbridge United and working together to support the continued growth of football across the county,” said Smith.