Four Cork girls make the Irish U15 squad

Four exceptional young Cork footballers are about to realise a dream they have shared for years, as Emma O’Neill, Sofia Rice, Emily Donovan and Penny Murphy have been selected for the Republic of Ireland Women’s U15 squad for the UEFA Development Tournament in Croatia next week.

All four girls were members of my Cork U14 squad that recently lifted the Gaynor Cup, so I have had the privilege of seeing first-hand just how much talent, character and determination each of them possesses.

The Four Cork girls were selected from a squad of 20—20% of the team—with two from Midleton, meaning 10% of the entire team comes from the East Cork club, which is a brilliant achievement.

Emma, Sofia, Emily and Penny have all followed their own paths through the Cork football system, coming through Wilton United, Midleton and Lakewood, before making the next steps in their development.

Now, all four will travel to Croatia as part of a 20 player Irish squad, with Cork woman Chelsea Noonan taking charge as head coach.

And while this has been a standout year for all four girls, it has not been without its challenges.

But perhaps nobody's journey to this point has been more challenging than that of goalkeeper Emma O'Neill.

For anyone who has watched Emma play over the years, her selection will come as no surprise. 

She has always been an exceptional goalkeeper, and I am sure there are plenty of people in Cork football who, like me, would have bet their house a few years ago that Emma would one day play for Ireland.

But the road to Croatia has not been straightforward.

Earlier this year, at just 13 years of age, Emma was diagnosed with diabetes.

For any young person, receiving news like that would be difficult to process. 

For a young athlete with big ambitions, it brings another layer of challenges and adjustments.

Yet Emma showed exactly the character that has made her such a special player.

She got over the initial shock, learned to manage her condition and got back to doing what she loves.

Then came the Gaynor Cup.

Emma was outstanding throughout the tournament and produced a particularly memorable performance in the semi and final, saving numerous of penalties in both penalty shoot outs.

She was subsequently selected for the Associations Cup squad, only for another cruel setback to arrive when she fractured her shoulder.

It would have been easy for disappointment to take over.

Instead, Emma focused on getting fit, getting strong and being ready for the next opportunity.

That opportunity has now arrived.

And what a reward it is.

Emma will put on the green jersey in Croatia.

Speaking about her selection, Emma was thrilled.

“It means the world to me to make this team as it has always been the dream since I’ve started,” said the 14 year-old Ballincollig Community School student.

“It will mean everything to my family and I for me to represent my country as it’s all we’ve talked about and dreamed of.” 

Emma's football journey began with Ballincollig boys when she was nine before she made the move into girls' football with Wilton United at around 11.

“This year has definitely been my best year and definitely one I will remember. 

"Winning the Gaynor Cup as captain was unbelievable.” 

Behind every young player who reaches this level there is usually a family making enormous sacrifices, and Emma is quick to acknowledge hers.

“My mom and dad are definitely my two biggest supporters, whether it’s dropping me and my sister Aisling and brother Daniel to different trainings or making sure we have the right nutrients before games. 

"There are also coaches and mentors who have played an important role throughout my development, John Murphy, Dan Moynihan, DJ Curtin and Barbara O’Connell, as well as my best friend, Emily Bushell, who has supported me through the highs and lows.” 

Second year student Penny Murphy is appreciative for all the support.

“I will always remember the huge support my family have given me to reach this point. I was really thrilled to make the final cut.” 

For Emily, it was all about enjoying the game she loves.

“Playing for Ireland early on was never really a thought as I genuinely just loved playing the game with friends. 

"However when I made the Cork team at U12, it then became serious and I knew I wanted to go all the way.” 

For the girls, Croatia will be about much more than the results. It will be about experiencing international football, learning from the best young players in the country, representing Ireland and making memories that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.