By Daniel Noble
CONRAD Kirkwood has opened up on leaving his role as Irish Football Association (IFA) president after his five-year tenure came to an end last week.
The Millisle native officially left his post at the conclusion of his term and will now be succeeded by Coleraine’s Colin McKendry.
First nominated for the role by Ballynahinch United and Dromara Village’s Bobby Reid, as well as Malachians and Amateur League representative Michael Mezza, Kirkwood beat then outgoing vicepresident Jack Grundie by 23 votes to 20.
His selection came off the back of a lifelong dedication to football having previously served as Abbey Villa secretary for 22 years and held the positions of County Antrim FA vice-president and UEFA/FIFA Sustainability Committee representative, amongst others.
During his presidency, Julie Nelson scored the Northern Ireland women’s team’s first goal at a major tournament, while the Northern Ireland Powerchair team made history by competing at the inaugural FIPFA Powerchair Football World Cup in Sydney, Australia.
However, the most high-profile success of late was retaining the services of Michael O’Neill as the men’s national team manager amid the possibility of losing him to Blackburn Rovers.
Kirkwood’s time in office was not only filled with notable international achievements, as the 58-year-old also garnered praise for his commitment to grassroots football.
In between attending a World Cup final and rubbing shoulders with footballing names such as legendary manager Arsene Wenger, famed referee Pierluigi Collina and FIFA
president Gianni Infantino, Kirkwood often gave his time to local clubs.
Now, with his most prestigious role behind him, Kirkwood admits it will not be easy to adjust to his reduced schedule, but he can look back on his time as president fondly.
“I’ve experienced a mixture of emotions. There’s been a wee bit of sadness because I’m at the end, a bit of relief because it’s an intense role and a bit of pride because it was a period of stability, which is a primary aim for any football association, he explained.”
“I had my first day in years when someone didn’t ring me asking a football question and I’m not sure how I’m going to adjust to that, but I’m proud of my time as president.
“I like to think I’ve put a firm basis on for women’s football, promoting the women’s game, and when someone asked me to go somewhere that didn’t suit my personal schedule, I tried to make it work.
“Whilst places like Portaferry and Donaghadee aren’t that far away from the IFA, they’re a million miles away in terms of how many times you see someone from the IFA down. So, the more places I could get to and elevate the status of the place the better.”
Kirkwood’s contribution to Northern Irish football has not gone unnoticed either. On Monday, he was honoured with a reception held by Minister for Communities Gordon at Stormont.
North Down MLA Stephen Dunne, who was in attendance at the celebration, was not short on praise for Kirkwood’s time in office.
He said: “I was delighted to attend this special reception to recognise Conrad Kirkwood’s exceptional service as president of the Irish Football Association over the past five years.
“Throughout his tenure, Conrad who is a proud Millisle man, has been a passionate advocate for football at every level, working tirelessly to promote and develop the game across Northern Ireland.
“His dedication, leadership and commitment have earned him widespread respect throughout the football community.
“I thank Conrad for his outstanding contribution to the sport and wish him every success for the future. I have no doubt he will continue to make a significant contribution to the beautiful game for many years to come.”
