Elite Football Training by Professionals
North East Football School, located in Dundalk, Co. Louth, is a premier football training academy dedicated to nurturing the talents of aspiring young athletes. We offer comprehensive training programs in soccer for both boys and girls, focusing on essential skills such as technical soccer proficiency, mental agility, and physical fitness. Our curriculum is designed to enhance players' overall performance through a balanced approach that includes on-field training, strength and conditioning, and classroom education in football strategies. Additionally, we provide opportunities for participants to earn FAI Coaching Badges in Play and Participate (PAP), equipping them with valuable skills and knowledge to excel in the sport. At North East Football School, we are committed to fostering a love for the game, developing confidence, all while developing the next generation of footballers, coaches and managers.
Discover North East Football School Expertise
Stephen Mc Donnell
Stephen McDonnell brings a wealth of experience and passion to North East Football School a co-founder and lead coach. A former professional footballer, Stephen played for Celtic FC, Dundalk FC, and Shelbourne FC from the age of 16 to 22, gaining invaluable insights at the highest levels of the game.
With over a decade of coaching and management experience, Stephen has held key roles across clubs and associations, including Head of Youth and First Team Manager at Warrenpoint Town FC, Academy Manager and First Team Coach at Dundalk FC, and Development Coach at the Irish Football Association’s UEFA Residential Academy. He has also led youth programs as U20’s Manager at Shelbourne FC and served as Head Coordinator for the DBS Transition Year Program. Stephen recently managed Glenavon FC’s first team, continuing his legacy of leadership, innovation and a true love of the game.
As a UEFA (A) and UEFA Elite Youth (A) license holder, Stephen is at the forefront of modern football coaching. He is currently undertaking the prestigious UEFA Pro License, the pinnacle of coaching qualifications. Additionally, Stephen is a qualified QQI Level 6 Train the Trainer, enabling him to tutor and mentor the next generation of players and coaches.
Stephen’s vision for North East Football School reflects his commitment to player development, confidence building, and creating pathways for aspiring athletes to achieve their full potential. Through both playing and coaching there is a huge potential for young people to be involved in this lifelong game.
"This is where passion meets potential, ensuring the future of the game through development, dedication, and opportunity"
Stephen Mc Donnell - Coach & Tutor
Padraig Gollogley
Padraig Gollogley brings a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to football training and youth development. With a playing career that spans over a decade and includes over 400 professional appearances across renowned clubs such as Dundalk FC, Drogheda United, and Southern Stars in Melbourne, Padraig’s journey in football is a testament to his skill and commitment to the game. He has tasted success as a First Division winner, reflecting his ability to perform at the highest level and lead teams to victory.
Transitioning seamlessly into coaching, Padraig has honed his expertise over two decades with diverse roles at esteemed clubs like Dundalk FC U19s, Bellurgan United, and Rock Celtic. As a UEFA B Licensed coach, he combines technical knowledge with practical experience, ensuring that every player under his guidance develops their skills, confidence, and love for the game. Padraig is also pursuing his UEFA A License in 2025, reinforcing his commitment to continuous learning and excellence in coaching.
What sets Padraig apart is his holistic approach to player development. As a qualified Physical and Neuromuscular Therapist, he places a strong emphasis on physical wellbeing and injury prevention, ensuring that young players are nurtured in a safe and supportive environment. His understanding of the human body, combined with his football expertise, allows him to tailor training programs that maximize potential while prioritizing health.
Padraig’s mission is simple: to foster a love for football, build confidence, and help young players grow both on and off the pitch. Parents can trust that their children are in safe, capable hands with a coach who truly understands the game and cares deeply about their development and wellbeing.
"Football has always been more than just a game to me—it's a way to teach life skills and build confidence. Watching young players grow, is the most rewarding part of what I do. My goal is to inspire a lifelong love for the game while helping every player reach their full potential."
Padraig Gollogley - Coach & Physical Therapist
“ Working under Stephen was a great pleasure. His attention to detail was flawless. Everything he done tactically was always of a high level for the way the team was asked to play.”
Patrick Hoban
“ I worked closely with Stephen from underage football up to senior football. Training sessions were of a high level with lots of detail which helped my progress. This helped me with the demands of professional football.”
Mayowa Animasahun
★★★★★
“ I worked closely with Stephen from underage football up to senior football and learned a lot with him. The coaching sessions he put on and his tactical insight improved my game. Stephen helped my transition from youth to senior football”
Ryan O'Kane