'There’s an edge in Cork, a vibe you don’t get anywhere else' says Ireland coach Carla Ward

An event on the topic of leadership in women’s sport and the future of Irish women’s football was recently hosted by Cork City FC.

The event was attended by members of Cork Business Association and Network Cork as well as Republic of Ireland Women’s Head Coach, Carla Ward, who praised the support on display for the women’s game in Cork.

She said: “There’s an edge in Cork, there’s a vibe that you just don’t get anywhere else, but people can get more involved, more invested. With sponsorship and sponsorship of players, there’s so much more that can be done.”

Ms Ward in particular praised Cork-born Irish international, Denise O’Sullivan, who she had just visited at her new US club, Gotham FC. “Before I took the job, people talked about Denise but I don’t think I realised just how good she is.

“This country needs her, more than anyone. She is unbelievable on the pitch, but more importantly, the way she leads off the pitch is next level.” 

The evening at the Old Oak was followed by a panel discussion with Ward, CCFC women’s manager Derek Coughlan, CCFC’s first female professional player, Eva Mangan and medal-winning Cork Paralympian, Niamh McCarthy, who shared her experience as an athlete and the challenges she faced throughout her career.

Anthony O’Sullivan, commercial manager at CCFC said: “It was a pleasure to welcome many of Cork’s most successful and interesting businesspeople for a night championing the women's game.

“Guests received a unique glimpse into the world of women's sport, the challenges they face and how it continues to grow.” Cork Business Association President Dave O’Brien said: “Events like this, and sporting events in Cork, inspire the next generation, raise the profile of the city and showcase the opportunities that sport can create for our wider community and business community.” 

When questioned as to whether Ms Ward could see herself as Ireland manager beyond her current contract, she replied: “I think I’m secretly Irish – it's a mindset, a resilience. Around a year ago, I said if there was one job I’d love it was the Irish international job.”