27
DEFENCE FORCES LADIES SOCCER MAKE HISTORY
whistle was blown there was both awe and
relief written on the faces of the players
and management. This was the team's first
win in an international tournament, paving
the way for the future of women's soccer
within the Defence Forces.
A huge thanks goes to both the physio on
the trip, Cpl Devon Roche, and the team
doctor, Comdt Patrick Kelly, who ensured
the team were looked after to the highest
standard. Tears, laughter, joy, heartbreak,
every emotion imaginable was felt by the
members of this squad, on both the run up
to and during the tournament. The quali
-
ty of athletes, facilities and management
were all second to none. This team brought
together athletes from all walks of life
including camogie players, Gaelic football
-
ers, rugby players, surfers and more, and
that is what makes it all so special. What
sport is about, is bringing people together
and working towards a common goal, no
matter the training or the roadblocks or the
heartbreak or the pain. Furthermore, a suc
-
cessful team is not always one that walks
off the pitch holding the cup or with medals
around their necks. A successful team is
one that puts everything aside to support
each other and walks off the pitch proud,
not only of what they achieved, but proud
of where they have come from.
The 13th CISM Military World Games was
a breakthrough for the women's soccer
team. It was an opportunity presented to
the team out of determination from Captain
Margaret Hogan and Colonel Mark Hearns
to get the face of this team on the map.
What the girls and the management have
achieved to date, is only the beginning of
the potential that they have. Comhgairdeas
to everyone who contributed to the suc
-
cess of this team and keep an eye on them
in their future endeavours!
Team meeting pre game Team Photo Side Line View
Celebrating Victory against USA
DF Ladies soccer Squad and management
