Laura Kane Takes The Mc Aleer And Rushe Q And A

Saturday 20.06.2020

1-     Earliest GAA memory.

One of my earliest GAA memories was when I was U12, Galbally kindly “donated” a few players to the opposition team to give all the girls playing time. I was one of those players and I ended up marking my sister Amie. Amie is convinced she roasted me that day, but secretly I wasn’t even trying (or so I say)because I wanted Galbally to win.

2-     Was your family a traditional GAA family?

My family are a very traditional GAA family, Daddy and Mummy became heavily involved within our local GAA club when my siblings and I began to play. Mummy and Daddy will forever be our number one supporters, they never missed a game and have travelled the length and breadth of Ireland to watch us play. The GAA has always and will always be a massive part of my family’s lives.

3-     The best GAA venue you have been to?

It would be difficult to look past my own club, Pearse Park is at the heart of our community and the facilities are exceptional . We are very fortunate to have such great changing rooms, pitches and a running track on our doorstep.

4-     School participation and/or success.

I attended St. Ciaran’s College Ballygawley and during my seven years we reached 3 Ulster finals, 2 of which we won. In sixth year, I won an Ulster title alongside my older sister Amie and in my final year went on to win a second Ulster title. In seventh year, I received a Post Primary All Star and also was named St. Ciaran’s female player of the year.

I then went on to study at Ulster University Coleraine, during my years at university we reach two championship finals, one of which we went on to win. We won the Lagan Cup in 2018 and I was also delighted to receive a Ladies HEC All-Star that year.

5-     Club/county role models that you looked up to as a youth.

My role model is Elaine Mallaghan, she was my U12 manager and was really the person who encouraged me to play goalkeeper. Elaine played goals for Galbally Oonagh Celts and Tyrone and is still the player who I aspire to play like.

6-     Other sports that you played or had an interest in.

Gaelic football has always been the main sport I have played, however I used to play soccer for Dungannon United Youth and also enjoyed playing handball during my time at St. Ciaran’s.

7-     Most difficult opponent you have faced in club football and why?

It would be difficult to single out one individual as I have played against a lot of brilliant footballers. But last year we played Edendork in the league and as a team they were extremely well drilled and ruthless on the pitch. Fair play to them they deservedly went on to do the double and win Ulster.

8-     Best players you have ever seen play Gaelic football.

Growing up I always attended the ladies All Ireland finals and was very inspired by the Cork Ladies and all they achieved. One player who always stood out to me due to her athleticism, passion and leadership was Juliet Murphy, she is without doubt one of the greatest players I have ever seen play.

9-     Are you a fan of the recent rule changes?

The rule changes have been mostly implemented into the men’s team and yes there are some that I think are improving the overall game. But I feel sorry for referees who are already under immense pressure never mind with the addition of new rules.

10-  The best GAA match that you have ever saw.

The intermediate championship final which Galbally won last year will always be a standout match for me. The determination and drive displayed by all players was incredible and the atmosphere when the final whistle blew was indescribable It was a very proud day for the community and for our family as my younger brother Peadar was named on the championship panel.

11-  Are you a fan of academies/development squads? Why

Yes, I think academies and development squads are a great idea they enable young players to gain an understanding of the expectations of a county footballer. These squads help to encourage players to improve their skills and enhance their talent. I have been involved in county and development squads from the age of 13 and they have definitely helped improve my skills as a player.

12-  Your own involvement around the club.

I do try my best to be involved within my local club as much as possible. I have been involved in the clubs Gaelic for girl’s programme, Gaelic camps during the year and I would referee at underage blitzes. The training demands of playing county football and previously studying in Coleraine had meant my involvement had decreased, but I am hoping to change that.

13-  How important is the GAA in your community?

The GAA is at the heart of our small community. Prior to lockdown, Pearse Park would have been used daily by players of all ages. The volunteers, players and committee members all contribute to the ethos of the community. Galbally is also involved in cultural events such as Scor, the club is well known for producing some of the best Irish and Sean Nos dancers, traditional musicians and singers. Galbally is a club with a very proud tradition and I am always very proud to say Galbally Pearses is my club.

14-  Favourite county jersey (not Tyrone).

Monaghan’s jersey.

15-  Are you a fan of penalties to decide the outcome of championship games?

Honestly, I don’t believe that deciding championship matches on penalties is fair on either team. It adds immense pressure to players who have to step up to take penalties or to save them.