Kids Football Coach Removed Over Suspected ‘Drugs Menu’

Published: 27 November 2025 Thursday. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A children’s football coach in Belfast has been removed from both his club and the wider grassroots league following the posting of an apparent drugs menu in a WhatsApp group chat used by coaches across Northern Ireland. The incident, which has caused shock within the local football community, has prompted swift action by both the football club and the FonaCab Development League to ensure safeguarding protocols were upheld.

The coach, understood to be responsible for under-eight teams at a Belfast club, shared an image that appeared to be a price list for illegal drugs. The message reportedly included meet-up points and a warning that “time wasters will be blocked.” Though the post was deleted shortly after it appeared, it was sent to a chat of approximately 400 coaches representing 300 grassroots league teams. The chat itself is primarily used to coordinate match fixtures, sharing details on who each team is playing, where, and when. Importantly, it is understood that no children were present in the chat when the message was sent.

The Belfast football club immediately acted after learning of the message. In a statement on social media, the club confirmed that the coach had been “permanently removed with immediate effect” and condemned the behaviour as “completely unacceptable within our club.” The club emphasised that all vetting procedures had been properly followed in accordance with Irish Football Association (IFA) guidelines and described the situation as a “shock.” They reiterated that the welfare of players remains their top priority and that the matter is being treated with the “utmost urgency.”

The FonaCab Development League, which oversees 300 clubs across Northern Ireland, confirmed that it acted swiftly to remove the coach from the league and notified his club immediately. The league also reported that relevant safeguarding personnel had been informed about the incident. The removal means the coach will no longer be allowed to participate in any future fixtures or access league venues.

In a formal statement, the FonaCab Development League acknowledged that while it could not “monitor or control every message shared between coaches when organising fixtures or availability,” it maintains clear expectations for professional and safe conduct. The league stated, “Any conduct that breaches safeguarding or professionalism will be addressed immediately. Our responsibility is to protect the wellbeing of every child and uphold the values the League is built on.” The statement also thanked coaches who consistently meet these expectations, recognising the positive contributions of the wider coaching community.

The incident has raised broader questions about the management and monitoring of communication within grassroots sports organisations. While WhatsApp and other messaging platforms are commonly used to coordinate fixtures and team schedules, this case highlights the potential for misuse when inappropriate content is shared. League and club officials have stressed the importance of clear rules and strict adherence to safeguarding policies to ensure that such incidents do not endanger children or undermine the trust placed in sports organisations.

Despite no children being directly exposed to the content of the message, the incident was treated with the utmost seriousness due to the nature of the allegations. Sharing content related to illegal drugs, even among adults, is considered unacceptable and highly inappropriate for individuals working with young players. Clubs and leagues have a duty of care to maintain safe environments for children and to uphold high standards of professionalism among staff and volunteers.

The coach’s removal comes at a time when grassroots football in Northern Ireland has been growing steadily, with an increasing focus on youth participation and community engagement. Clubs across the country have implemented rigorous vetting procedures, including background checks and safeguarding training, to protect young players and ensure a safe environment. Incidents such as this serve as a reminder that even experienced coaches must adhere strictly to these standards.

The FonaCab Development League’s response was immediate and decisive, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding across all its member clubs. By removing the coach from the league and informing the club, officials ensured that the individual could no longer participate in any capacity, including attending fixtures, coaching, or accessing club facilities. This swift action was widely welcomed by parents, club members, and fellow coaches who expressed concern over the nature of the message.

Local football supporters have reacted with a mixture of shock and relief. Many parents emphasised the importance of safeguarding in youth sports, noting that coaches serve as role models for children and must demonstrate appropriate behaviour at all times. Community members praised both the club and the league for handling the matter professionally and for taking the necessary steps to protect children and uphold trust in the sport.

The incident has also sparked discussions within the football community about the use of technology and messaging platforms. While WhatsApp provides a convenient way for coaches to communicate, share schedules, and coordinate fixtures, it also carries risks when used irresponsibly. Clubs and leagues are increasingly considering formal policies and monitoring procedures to prevent misuse while maintaining the collaborative and social aspects of communication between staff.

Officials have reiterated that while the league cannot police every message sent between coaches, clear boundaries and expectations must be established. The situation serves as a case study for other clubs across Northern Ireland and beyond, highlighting the importance of vigilance, robust safeguarding measures, and immediate action when inappropriate behaviour is identified.

In the aftermath of the incident, the club has also reviewed its internal procedures to prevent similar occurrences. This includes reminding staff and volunteers about expected standards of communication, reinforcing safeguarding training, and ensuring that reporting mechanisms are accessible and effective. The emphasis remains on prioritising the safety and wellbeing of young players while fostering a positive and professional coaching environment.

Parents and community members have expressed support for the club’s decisive actions. Many highlighted the importance of creating a safe sporting environment where children can learn, grow, and enjoy football without exposure to inappropriate content or influences. The removal of the coach sends a clear message that any behaviour that undermines these principles will not be tolerated.

The league, while noting the limits of monitoring private communications, has pledged to continue its focus on safeguarding and professional conduct. Officials have urged all coaches to maintain high standards and to report any behaviour that may put children or the reputation of the league at risk. By acting quickly and transparently, the FonaCab Development League and the Belfast club have demonstrated their commitment to maintaining the integrity and safety of youth football.

This incident serves as a reminder to all grassroots sports organisations of the importance of vigilance, accountability, and immediate response to any breaches of conduct. While technology has facilitated communication and organisation, it also requires responsibility and oversight to ensure that young athletes are protected and that coaching environments remain safe and professional.

In conclusion, the Belfast football coach’s removal from both his club and the league following the sharing of a suspected drugs menu underscores the seriousness with which safeguarding breaches are treated. The swift actions of both the club and the FonaCab Development League reflect a commitment to prioritising child welfare, maintaining professionalism, and upholding the values of grassroots football. As communities continue to invest in youth sports, this incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing responsibility to protect young players and foster safe, respectful, and accountable coaching practices.