Fermoy women's team create history playing Everton in their first senior CWSSL league game

Fermoy Football Club has reached a landmark moment in its long history with the establishment of its first-ever senior women’s soccer team. While the team officially competed in their first game two weeks ago, its creation is the result of years of dedication, persistence, and belief from those involved in developing girls’ football within the club.

For Jamie O’Connell, Schoolgirls Liaison Officer, the journey has been both personal and collective.

“Having rejoined the club through coaching my daughter’s team, I became more involved at committee level in 2025," said O’Connell. 

"One of the club’s key ambitions, already outlined by my predecessor Paul Doyle, was to have a senior women’s side in place by the club’s centenary in 2027. 

"That vision has now been realised ahead of schedule.

"However, the roots of this achievement stretch back over a decade. 

"As senior coach Deirdre “Dee” O’Dwyer recalls, the club’s first girls’ team was formed in 2014 when a group of 11-year-olds could no longer continue playing alongside boys. 

"From that starting point, Dee and Andy McGrath built a thriving academy structure, introducing girls’ teams from as young as under-five level. "Although that original group eventually disbanded around 2019 due to declining numbers at older age groups, it laid the essential groundwork.” What makes the story particularly compelling is how it has come full circle. 

In 2025, several of those original players reconnected with O’Dwyer, expressing interest in restarting something—even on a purely social basis. That renewed interest sparked momentum. By September, the club began promoting the idea, and within weeks, small training sessions were underway. 

Attendance grew steadily, turning a casual initiative into something far more ambitious.

The appointment of head coach Allen Cotter, who is currently completing his UEFA C Licence, brought structure and direction. 

Under his guidance, the group quickly evolved into a competitive squad. 

What began as a social return to football soon became Fermoy’s first senior women’s team, now competing in a full league season.

This development marks a historic milestone for the club. 

While Fermoy has successfully fielded girls’ teams across multiple age groups—from under-9 to under-17—there had always been a gap at adult level. 

That absence often meant losing players just as they reached maturity in the game. 

Now, for the first time, a complete pathway exists, allowing players to progress from academy level right through to senior football within their own club.

The significance of this cannot be overstated. It not only strengthens player retention but also reinforces a sense of belonging and long-term opportunity. 

Young girls in the club can now clearly see a future in the sport, wearing the same colours at every stage of their development.

On the pitch, the team has made an impressive start. 

Their first-ever competitive fixture saw them come from behind to secure a 1–1 draw away to Everton. 

That result was quickly followed by a memorable 5–2 victory in their first home league game, creating a real buzz around the club. 

The performance showcased not only skill and determination but also the enjoyment and camaraderie that define the group.

“Currently, our team boasts around 30 registered players, with 18 selected for matchday squads. 

"This depth provides healthy competition and a solid foundation for growth. The squad itself is diverse, featuring a mix of experienced players, returning former members, and newcomers to the sport. 

"With connections to countries such as the United States, Brazil, Nigeria, Poland, Turkey, and Thailand, the team reflects a rich blend of cultures and backgrounds."

Off the field, the effort to establish the team has been a true collective endeavour. 

O’Dwyer’s long-standing involvement has been central, linking past and present. 

Cotter’s coaching has brought professionalism and structure, while support from other club figures, including Tom Keating and Niamh Condon, has been invaluable. 

Club leadership has also played a key role, with initiatives such as hosting the FAI’s “In Her Boots” coaching course helping to develop future female coaches.

“There are still challenges to overcome. The team currently trains and plays in borrowed kits, though sponsorship from local business FTS Logistics will soon provide them with their own. 

"Additional support will be needed, particularly for an away kit, as the club continues to manage the financial demands of running a new team.

"Looking ahead, the focus remains on steady progress. The team will compete in an 18-game season, with fixtures scheduled each Wednesday. "Success, for now, is defined not by trophies but by development, enjoyment, and sustainability. 

"Establishing a team that continues into next season—and grows beyond it—is the primary goal.”