young footballers
About Football First
Football First is a proudly Irish company dedicated to delivering elite football training tours and youth coaching development experiences. We bring a deep understanding of the game—on and off the pitch—thanks to decades of experience across grassroots and senior football.
Founded by Dave Hudson, Football First is built on a legacy of passion, professionalism, and purpose. With over 50 years in Irish football—as a League of Ireland player, youth academy director, club manager, and qualified business coach—Dave brings unmatched insight and integrity to every tour and training session. His mission is simple: to create inspiring, high-quality football opportunities that support the development of young players, with a strong emphasis on inclusion and empowering the next generation—especially girls—in sport.
At Football First, we’re more than just tours. We’re about growth, team spirit, and unforgettable experiences that shape confident players for life.
Our Vision
To become Europe’s most empowering football experience brand—where every young player, especially girls, is inspired to train, grow, and dream bigger through unforgettable football journeys, world-class coaching, and a deep sense of team, culture, and confidence.
Our Mission
At Football First, our mission is to create life-changing opportunities for youth footballers through expertly organised international tours and inclusive, development-driven coaching. Founded by Dave Hudson and backed by 50+ years in Irish football, we are committed to:
- Delivering elite training tours that combine football, friendship, and adventure
- Providing tailored coaching programmes that nurture talent, especially in girls’ football
- Empowering coaches, parents, and young players with meaningful experiences that build skill, character, and lifelong love for the game
Because at Football First—we don’t just play the game. We grow it.
Philosophy & Style of Play
At Football First, our philosophy is rooted in player development, positivity, and passion for the game. We believe that football is more than a sport—it’s a journey that builds confidence, resilience, teamwork, and character both on and off the pitch. Our goal is to create an environment where every player feels seen, supported, and challenged to grow—regardless of their background, ability, or gender.
Our style of play emphasises intelligence, creativity, and adaptability. We encourage players to think fast, play with purpose, and express themselves with confidence. Whether it’s building from the back, quick transitions, or dynamic attacking combinations, our coaching focuses on technical excellence, tactical awareness, and game understanding.
Above all, we champion an inclusive, high-energy approach that nurtures respect, effort, and enjoyment—setting the stage for long-term success and a lifelong love of football.
Football First
reflects a clear commitment to putting football at the heart of everything we do.
It’s about prioritising the development, enjoyment, and experience of footballers and creating opportunities where their growth comes first.
Meet Our Team
At Football First, our team is made up of passionate football professionals with decades of experience both on and off the pitch. From grassroots coaching to international tour management, we bring a shared dedication to player development, safety, and unforgettable football experiences.
Each member of our team is Garda vetted, professionally qualified, and committed to creating positive, inclusive environments where young footballers can grow in skill, confidence, and love for the game.
We’re not just coaches and coordinators — we’re mentors, supporters, and lifelong fans of the sport.
Get to know the people behind Football First.
Dave Hudson
Founder
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Dave Hudson brings over 50 years of deep-rooted experience in Irish football, from player to club manager to youth academy mentor. He began his playing career with Trinity College in the League of Ireland and spent over a decade competing with YMCA in the Leinster Senior League. His journey in football management spans 25 years, most notably with Seaford United and Seaford Rock United (LSL). Transitioning into schoolboy football, Dave took on a pivotal role at Mount Merrion Youths FC, leading the underage academy for two years and managing several top-tier youth teams for over 15 years.
Outside the pitch, Dave is a qualified Business Coach and Mentor, helping individuals reach their career goals with clarity and confidence. His leadership and motivational skills seamlessly translate into his coaching philosophy—one focused on development, purpose, and passion.
Dave is a strong advocate for lifelong sport and physical activity among youth, especially in an age where screen time often replaces playtime. He is particularly committed to keeping both boys and girls engaged in sport into their teens and beyond, recognizing the mental and physical benefits of regular, active participation.
Observing the rapid rise of girls’ football in Ireland, Dave identified a growing need for quality coaching and dedicated development pathways for female players. He has since built a trusted team of experienced coaches to provide girls with the support, skill-building, and opportunities they deserve—whether their goal is to play competitively or simply to enjoy the game.
Through Football First, Dave also curates unforgettable international training tours, offering players and teams the chance to travel abroad, receive elite coaching, play matches against local sides, and attend top-level games. These tours are more than just football—they’re powerful team-building adventures that create memories to last a lifetime.
Dave is Garda vetted and fully committed to creating safe, inspiring, and growth-driven environments for all players.
Steve Griffiths
Head Coach
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With over 30 years of experience in international sports management, Steve brings a wealth of expertise to Football First.
He spent four years with the Rugby Football Union in England before joining World Rugby, where he dedicated 18 years to global tournament operations and referee management.
During his 12 years overseeing referee management, Steve played a key role in the delivery of Rugby World Cups and age-grade championships, including serving as Tournament Director for international Sevens and youth competitions.
For the past decade, Steve has worked as a consultant and educator for the World Academy of Sport, delivering executive-level training for high-profile organisations such as the Asian Football Confederation, International Olympic Committee (IOC), International Paralympic Committee, World Rugby, ICC, and various National Governing Bodies in Ireland. His strategic insight and leadership across multiple sports codes make him an invaluable asset to the Football First team.