Carla Ward: Cork connection crucial for Ireland as they prepare for Páirc Uí Chaoimh return

Republic of Ireland Women’s head coach Carla Ward said Cork business has an important part to play in the development of the women’s game on Leeside, while encouraging Cork’s public to support her side when Ireland play Kazakhstan at SuperValu Pairc Ui Chaoimh on October 9.

Ward was speaking at an event hosted by Cork City FC, attended by members of Cork Business Association and Network Cork, on the topic of leadership in women’s sport and the future of Irish women’s football.

The Ireland head coach praised the support on display for the women’s game.

"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." 

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.

Ward can see herself as Ireland manager beyond her current contract. 

“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. What the country stands for is a little bit like me.”

Growth mindset

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

"Cork City FC would like to sincerely thank the Cork Business Association and Network Ireland’s Cork branch for inviting their members along to the event. Guests received a unique glimpse into the world of women's sport, the challenges they face and how it continues to grow. The support of local businesses is vital as we grow the game, and support this and future generations of female football players from Cork.” 

Diane Higgins, Network Ireland Cork president, added: “It is really important to have these kinds of events to shine a light on the incredible efforts of women and girls in sport across Ireland. I’d also like to thank our wonderful members who were there that night. The insights from all of the speakers were fascinating, and they each contributed a unique understanding of sport and its challenges.” 

Cork Business Association president Dave O’Brien felt the event highlighted many of Cork and Ireland’s amazing female athletes. 

"Carla Ward brought some thoughtful insight into the future of women’s football in Ireland and is always complimentary of the women’s national team fans when they play in Cork. 

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. 

"It was a truly unique event and a great example of the positive impact sport can have on Cork city.”