Leah Caffrey showing no signs of slowing down in Dublin's defence
Michael Bolton
Twelve years on from making her Dublin debut, Leah Caffrey is showing no signs of slowing down in the Dublin defence.
After losing out to Galway in the 2024 quarter-finals, Dublin bounced back to defeat Meath in August in Croke Park.
Key to regaining their title was their defence, limiting Meath to 10 points in the final, with Caffrey among the Dublin players nominated for an all-star.
Looking back on the final, the Dublin defender says they were improving as the season went on.
"We were kind of improving with each game we played. Thankfully, then in the final we were able to put in a really good performance.
"I think we were delighted on the day because we had a lot of tough sessions before that. For it all to pay off on the day, it was brilliant."
Under new management, and the last season for some experienced players, Dublin responded like champions do to last year's disappointment.
The 31-year-old said the defeat to Galway was used as motivation heading into his season.
"After 2024, we were all kind of like 'Are we much off it?' or 'How far away are we?'. I think we all felt like we had a lot more to give, so the decision to get back into things pretty soon after was kind of just natural.
"The transition then into this year made us a lot smoother because we were all on the same page and we were hungry to get back on top."
With five All-Ireland titles and four All-Stars, the Na Fianna woman is one of the most experienced players in this Dublin side.
Star forward Hannah Tyrell was among the players who played their last game in the All-Ireland final win over Meath, with young players also making their mark.
Leadership is something Caffrey has taken in her stride and enjoys guiding the next generation through any challenges they may face.
"Probably in the last few years, I've had more of a leadership role, which I've really enjoyed.
"There is a lot of really good talent coming through in Dublin, so we're lucky to have that and to be able to have those girls come into our group, and hopefully pass on as much knowledge as you can.
"Carla is the captain; she'd be the biggest leader that way, but there are also so many leaders on the team, not including me. There is leadership all over the pitch.
"It is probably in the small actions we take for each other, looking out for each other, making sure everything is alright.
"If anyone needs a hand, that is the biggest thing on our team, to make sure everyone is in a good mindframe and we can all get behind each other, no matter what it is."
