Villa FC will make history later this month when they kick off their inaugural FAI National League campaign, becoming one of the founding clubs in the new nationwide third-tier competition.

The Waterford side begin their Group 3 campaign away to Newbridge Town on Saturday, September 5, with kick-off at 3 pm, according to the club’s newly released fixture schedule.

Villa were drawn alongside CK United, Killarney Celtic, Newbridge Town and UCC Soccer in Group 3, with teams facing each other home and away. The three group winners, along with the best-placed runner-up, will advance to the semi-finals before the inaugural National League Final in November.

Before their league opener, Villa face a busy August, including the Munster Champions of Champions competition, the President’s Cup Final and Premier League fixtures as they prepare for the historic season.

The launch of the FAI National League marks a major milestone for Villa FC, providing the club with the opportunity to compete on a national stage while helping strengthen player development and the pathway into senior football in Ireland.

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