Fixtures
| Date | R | Home vs Away | - |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12/27 14:00 | 22 |
Dundela vs HW Welders
|
View |
| 12/30 15:00 | 23 |
Newington FC vs Institute
|
View |
| 12/30 19:45 | 23 |
Annagh United vs Bangor FC
|
View |
| 12/30 19:45 | 23 |
HW Welders vs Ballyclare Comrades
|
View |
| 12/30 19:45 | 23 |
Newry City vs Armagh City
|
View |
| 12/30 20:00 | 23 |
Limavady United vs Ballinamallard Utd
|
View |
| 12/31 15:00 | 23 |
Ards FC vs Dundela
|
View |
| 01/10 20:00 | 24 |
Bangor FC vs Limavady United
|
View |
| 01/11 14:00 | 24 |
Dundela vs Annagh United
|
View |
| 01/11 15:00 | 24 |
Armagh City vs HW Welders
|
View |
| 01/11 15:00 | 24 |
Ballinamallard Utd vs Newington FC
|
View |
| 01/11 15:00 | 24 |
Ballyclare Comrades vs Newry City
|
View |
Results
| Date | R | Home vs Away | - |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12/26 15:00 | 22 |
[7] Institute vs Limavady United
[2]
|
1-1 |
| 12/26 15:00 | 22 |
[9] Ballyclare Comrades vs Newington FC
[12]
|
1-1 |
| 12/26 15:00 | 22 |
Bangor vs Ards
|
0-0 |
| 12/26 15:00 | 22 |
Armagh City vs Annagh United
|
3-1 |
| 12/26 14:00 | 22 |
Ballinamallard Utd vs Newry City
|
2-1 |
| 12/21 15:00 | 21 |
Newry City vs Institute
|
0-2 |
| 12/21 15:00 | 21 |
[2] Limavady United vs HW Welders
[5]
|
0-0 |
| 12/21 15:00 | 21 |
[1] Bangor vs Ballinamallard Utd
[10]
|
3-2 |
| 12/21 15:00 | 21 |
Annagh United vs Ards FC
|
0-1 |
| 12/21 14:00 | 21 |
[4] Dundela vs Ballyclare Comrades
[7]
|
2-1 |
| 12/20 20:00 | 21 |
Newington FC vs Armagh City
|
0-0 |
| 12/14 15:00 | 20 |
Institute vs Bangor
|
3-1 |
Teams
Ballyclare Comrades
HW Welders
Knockbreda
Dergview FC
Loughgall
Dundela
Institute
Ards FC
Annagh United
Ballinamallard Utd
PSNI
Larne FC
Newry City
Portadown
Bangor FC
Armagh City
Newington FC
Limavady United
Lurgan Celtic
Queens University
Warrenpoint Town
Carrick Rangers
Lisburn Distillery
Donegal Celtic
Wikipedia - NIFL Championship
The Northern Ireland Football League Championship (known as the Playr-Fit Championship for sponsorship reasons) is the second level of the Northern Ireland Football League, the national football league in Northern Ireland. Clubs in the Championship can be promoted to the highest national division – the NIFL Premiership, and relegated to the third level – the NIFL Premier Intermediate League.
In its current format, it was founded in 2008 as the Premier Intermediate League for members of the previous IFA Intermediate League that met the new stricter membership criteria, though was marketed as the IFA Championship. In 2009, it was extended to two divisions: Championship 1 and Championship 2 with promotion and relegation between the two. In 2013, the Championship and Premiership became part of the Northern Ireland Football League, independent of the Irish Football Association (IFA).
Under reforms agreed by NIFL clubs in 2014, Championship 1 acquired senior status from the 2016–17 season onwards, continuing as the NIFL Championship. Championship 2 became the NIFL Premier Intermediate League, retaining its intermediate status.
The second level in Northern Irish football was known as the B Division from 1951 to 1995, the Irish League First Division from 1995 to 2003, the Irish First Division from 2003 to 2008, and the IFA Championship from 2008 to 2013.
History
The B Division of the Irish League was founded in 1951, and originally consisted of the reserve teams of the senior Irish League clubs alongside some of the top intermediate clubs. It effectively replaced the Irish Intermediate League, which had been the de facto second tier league below the Irish League since 1915. The Irish Intermediate League continued alongside the B Division until 1954 when it ceased to exist and its remaining clubs joined the B Division.
The B Division was split geographically into North and South sections in 1974 (with a play-off to determine the winners in 1974–75 and 1975–76), and then into Section 1 (containing the intermediate clubs) and Section 2 (the reserve teams of senior clubs) in 1977. There was no promotion to the senior Irish League, although clubs could be elected to the senior league; Larne were elected in 1972 to replace Derry City, Carrick Rangers and Newry City were elected in 1983 when the Irish League expanded from 12 to 14 clubs, and Ballyclare Comrades and Omagh Town in 1990 when the league expanded to 16 clubs.
A new second tier was created in 1995 when the Irish League split into a Premier Division and First Division, each with eight clubs and automatic promotion and relegation introduced. In 2003 the Irish Football League was wound up, with the top division becoming the Irish Premier League and the second division becoming the Irish First Division. This continued for five seasons, until the NIFL Championship was created.
The Northern Ireland Championship is a prestigious soccer tournament that showcases the best of competitive football in Northern Ireland. Established to promote and develop the sport at a grassroots level, this tournament features a mix of established clubs and emerging talent, providing a platform for players to shine and make their mark in the world of soccer.
**Format and Structure:**
The Championship typically consists of a league format, where teams compete over a season to earn points and secure their position in the standings. The top teams at the end of the season may qualify for promotion to higher leagues, while others strive to avoid relegation. The tournament is known for its intense rivalries, passionate fan support, and thrilling matches that keep spectators on the edge of their seats.
**Community and Development:**
Beyond the competitive aspect, the Northern Ireland Championship plays a vital role in community engagement and youth development. Clubs often run youth academies and outreach programs, fostering a love for the game among young players and encouraging participation at all levels. The tournament serves as a vital stepping stone for aspiring soccer stars, with many players progressing to higher tiers of the sport.
**Cultural Significance:**
Soccer is deeply woven into the fabric of Northern Irish culture, and the Championship reflects the region's rich sporting heritage. Matches are often celebrated events, drawing fans from all walks of life and creating a vibrant atmosphere in stadiums across the country. The tournament not only highlights athletic prowess but also promotes unity and pride within local communities.
**Conclusion:**
The Northern Ireland Championship is more than just a soccer tournament; it is a celebration of talent, community, and the enduring spirit of the game. Whether you are a die-hard fan, a casual observer, or a budding player, the Championship offers an exciting glimpse into the heart of Northern Irish soccer. Join us as we cheer for our teams, celebrate our players, and embrace the beautiful game!