NIFL launches new 3-year strategy

The Northern Ireland Football League has announced its new development plan for the coming 3 years, titled '20/20 Vision'.

The strategy was launched at last night's AGM.

NIFL Managing Director Andrew Johnston says it has outlined several key aims:

"We have a number of objectives to enhance the commercial value of our game, to review our governance structures, to develop systems to encourage the growth of our game, and probably, most importantly, how we can support and develop our member clubs," said Johnston.

"Our turnover has increased over the last number of years, and we have renewed Danske Bank as a sponsor for the next 3 years which will bring their association with the league to 8 years in total, which is incredible."

"One of the things I'm really proud of is the competitive nature of all of the divisions. It's helping to grab the attention of the lapsed fans too, you only have to look at last season's title run and how that played out."

Johnston also said the strategy will see the league working closely with both the clubs and the supporters.

"For the league to improve, the clubs need to buy into it and feel a part of it, and feel like it's all for the better of their future and development, too."

"I don't think NIFL should be afraid of criticism. There will be things, and certain opportunities that we maybe haven't taken full advantage of in the last few years - we're happy to take feedback on board and try to correct that moving forward."

For the full plan see http://nifootballleague.com/NIFLvision1720.pdf

• NIFL