Raphoe Town FC Celebrates Women’s Teams at Annual Awards Night

Raphoe Town FC honored its women’s teams during an engaging awards night on March 2, 2024. The event celebrated the achievements of players across the club’s 7-a-side, 9-a-side, and 11-a-side senior teams, marking a successful year both on and off the pitch.

The evening featured heartfelt tributes to the commitment of coaches, committee members, and volunteers. Club Chairman Mike Kelly welcomed attendees, expressing gratitude for their ongoing support. He stated, “Without you, without the hard work and time that you give, there wouldn’t be any teams.” Kelly highlighted the club’s growth and the crucial role that dedicated volunteers play in sustaining its success.

Recognition for Commitment and Growth

The awards night also included special guests, such as Paddy McDaid, head of Women’s Football at Finn Harps, and Dessie McGlinchey, coach for the Finn Harps U19 Women’s team. McDaid commended Raphoe Town FC for its efforts in promoting women’s and girls’ football, stating, “The work you are doing at Raphoe Town to promote women’s and girls football is fantastic.” He emphasized the positive impact of player development initiatives on local football.

Women’s team coach Sinead Kelly reflected on the season’s challenges and triumphs. “We have had a long season,” she said, noting the club’s extensive programs, including indoor leagues and various formats of play. Kelly praised the resilience of the players, particularly in the face of injuries that tested the team’s resolve. “We have a motto of Play for the Love of the Game, and they did that, week in and week out,” she added.

The culmination of this effort was the team’s victory in the inter-league shield final, a moment Kelly described as a well-deserved reward for the players’ dedication and teamwork.

Spotlight on Leadership and Community

Off the field, the commitment of players was equally noteworthy. Senior player Anna McFadden received special recognition for her dedication, continuing to support the team even after an injury. McFadden’s involvement extended beyond her playing role; she took on additional responsibilities, working with younger players and helping to develop their skills.

Coach Liam Porter highlighted the importance of leadership within the club, particularly among younger players. He noted the contributions of individuals like Tory McCarron, Ellen Carlin, and Hannah Goudie, who have taken on leadership roles within the club’s Disney Playmakers Programme. “The future of girls and women’s football depends not just on more players coming through, but also in having girls and women taking on leadership roles,” Porter emphasized.

The awards night concluded with acknowledgments of the staff at Friel’s Bar and Restaurant for their hospitality, as well as the musical duo Da Boyz for their entertainment.

The following awards were presented to recognize outstanding contributions and achievements:

7-a-side Blue:
– Club Spirit Award: Karla Devine
– Top Goalscorer: Clíodhna Kelly
– Young Player of the Year: Daisy Leeper
– Player of the Year: Sarah Jane Kelly

7-a-side White:
– Club Spirit Award: Hollie Tinney
– Top Goalscorer: Vanessa McHugh
– Young Player of the Year: Keeley Boyle
– Player of the Year: Alannah Kee

9-a-side:
– Club Spirit Award: Hannah Farry
– Top Goalscorer: Vanessa McHugh
– Young Player of the Year: Lauren O’Donnell
– Player of the Year: Orlaith Connolly

11-a-side:
– Club Spirit Award: Sarah Jane Kelly
– Top Goalscorer: Sarah Parke
– Young Player of the Year: Kelsey Parke
– Player’s Player of the Year: Rocha McCullagh
– Player of the Year: Rachel Lawne
– Goal of the Season: Denise McCarron

Overall Club Spirit Award: Anna McFadden

Looking ahead, Raphoe Town’s women’s teams are set to participate in the 7-a-side Winter League starting next week. The club welcomes new players and encourages interested individuals to reach out via their Facebook page or email at [email protected].