Just like their male counterparts in recent years, the Dublin ladies are on the brink of a historic 5 All-Ireland titles in a row this weekend. Although the men’s streak came to a fascinating end against Mayo 3 weeks ago, ‘The Jackies’ train keeps rolling on. At the heart of that success is their keeper. When most would have given up, Ciara Trant persevered and bided her time. Initially being a water carrier for the team, the opportunity presented itself after the goalkeeper’s position became vacant and like a high ball on the square, she fetched it firmly with both hands. Will she get both hands on the Brendan Martin Cup this weekend? We’ll have to wait and see. This week we went ClubSpotting with Ciara Trant to St. Brigid’s GAA Club.
What are your first memories of your club St. Brigid’s?
I moved to St. Brigid’s eight years ago. We used to train on Saturday mornings which meant that county players were able to attend and give a hand. I set my alarm for the early start and arrived in my rain gear ready for my first training session only to find that I was an hour late and training had finished. It wasn’t the best start to my time with St. Brigid’s but thankfully it has been uphill since.
Who were your sporting idols growing up?
My main GAA influences were Kerry footballers as my Dad’s family are from Kerry. I used to love watching Seamus Moynihan, Dara O’Cinnéide, Mike Frank Russell and a young Colm Cooper. My main sporting idols were Beckham, Zidane and Fabregas. I remember pretending to be them when practising my touch and through ball in the front garden. When I started playing underage football with Dublin I idolised Denise Masterson. She embodied everything I wanted to be; a midfielder, a leader, Dublin captain and a teacher.
What has been the proudest moment of your playing career?
My proudest moment was seeing my family after we finally won the All Ireland in 2017. I ran straight over to them in the crowd. In the three years previous that scene was a sad one as we were on the losing side. It was fantastic to be able to replace those painful moments with one of elation. Our families go through so many emotions watching matches, particularly finals. It is way easier to play an All-Ireland than be a family member in the crowd. There were lots of happy tears this time around. Seeing how happy and proud my family were at that moment is definitely my greatest achievement.
Toughest opponent you have faced?
The toughest player I have faced is Aimee Macken. She is a goalkeeper’s worst nightmare. Her movement is fantastic and she is extremely quick. She can clip points from distance and drill the ball to the top corner from anywhere inside the ‘D’. The toughest team I have faced is probably Cork. We know each other inside out and every match we play is battle and goes down to the wire.
Best Player you have played with?
Sinead Aherne. She is one of the most skilful players to play the game and is the most intelligent footballer I’ve ever seen. I have learned so much from her. She is a leader and the ultimate captain on and off the pitch.
Any pre game rituals or superstitions?
I don’t have any major rituals or superstitions because I don’t really believe in them and I know if something went wrong it would unsettle me. I do however always bring my pillow if we’re travelling to a game by bus. Comfort is key. I pack my bag the night before and lay out my clothes in the order I’ll put them on. On the day of a game I like to relax in my room either reading or watching sports.
What are your hopes and ambitions for the remainder of the season?
I set myself three goals this year. The first was return from injury and put my hand up for selection for championship. The second was for my team to win the All Ireland. My third goal was for this Dublin team to perform at the highest level we possible can – to walk off the pitch proud of our performance knowing that we could not have done any better. Fortunately, I was able to make it back from injury and hoping to reach my other two.
What is ClubSpot?
ClubSpot offers a wide range of features to ease the burden on volunteers in sports clubs and to help clubs increase their revenues. With a wide range of features, online payment and a customised Club App included.
For more information or to arrange a product demonstration for your club contact info@clubspot.app.