Following their impressive performance last season and finally get over the line in the Glen Dimplex All-Ireland senior camogie quarter-final against Limerick, Waterford camogie has been making undeniable progress. After moving up from the junior team, frequent scorer Róisín Kirwan is a prime example of this progression. We headed to the Déise to go ClubSpotting with Waterford camogie and St Anne's star Róisín Kirwan.
1. What are your first memories of your local camogie club?
Started playing with St Anne’s when I was around 9/10 after playing with St Mary’s ( boys club) before. Earliest memory was playing feile weekend with the club. I found the weekend was a great experience playing so many competitive matches from different clubs around the county, it really drew us closer as a team. It created my hunger for camogie and a great memory to look back on as a club.
2. Who were your sporting idols growing up?
Out of sport it was definitely Katie Taylor she’s an inspiration to any sports person. The work rate and determination she has is phenomenal. The hard times she’s went through in her life and to keep the winning mindset alive to not let it affect her. Makes her a unique sports star
Another idol of mine was definitely Niamh Rockett growing up seeing her play for the same club as me and to star for Waterford and still being able to play at the top level after some tough Injuries over the years. Similarly in regards the injuries I suffered with two cruciate ligament injuries made me believe I could come back just like Niamh did. Being able to play beside her now at a top level has always been an ambition of mine. Her encouragement before and throughout the game relives a lot of nerves.
3. What has been the proudest moment of your playing career so far?
My proudest moment was between returning to play after my second ACL injury after 3 years of doubting myself and missing a lot of my underage career I felt that I would never be good enough to perform at the highest level. And lining out in my first senior county game for Waterford coming from junior the previous year. Playing junior camogie two years previous with Waterford. Playing in a Waterford jersey at any level is a massive achievement and being called up to the senior ranks was a massive boost for me to be able to play alongside the best in the county.
4. Who is the toughest opponent you have faced?
I would have to say Lorraine Bray, between county training and her performance for her club Cappoquin she's a nightmare anywhere on the field.
5. Who is the best player you have played with?
Beth Carton is one of the best players I’ve played with her knowledge of the game is outstanding. Her leadership throughout the game her work rate and her overall consistency in games is second to none and when push comes to shove Beth will always find a way to drag the team through.
6. What are your hopes and ambitions for the new season?
Fresh start for the new season, we got to an all Ireland semi final last year against all odds and I hope that this year we can bring it that step further. With achieving what we did last year it’s given everyone that extra push and drive that we can push forward to the extra step.
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