‘Galway Camogie is in a really strong place’ says Ryan

There only two women in the 87 years of the Camogie Senior Championship being contested, who have ascended the steps of the Hogan Stand and lifted the O'Duffy Cup while draped in the maroon of Galway; Imelda Hobbins in 1996 and current player Lorraine Ryan in 2013.

Ryan, who has a decade of service in the maroon as well as being a teacher at Colaiste Bhaile Chlair, is arguably the best placed person to comment on the impact having both intermediate and senior teams in All-Ireland finals is having on camogie in the county.

"It is great boost going back [to school last] Monday. All the young camogie players, they are all excited. They go to all our games and there is a great buzz around the school as well, and it makes going back very easy.

"For the younger players looking on there is a great buzz. Galway camogie is in a really strong place. The younger girls coming in can see what can be done when there is hard work done. They have something to aim [for]. The buzz creates more development of players, wanting to play for Galway camogie and wanting to come through."

With Sunday set to be the Kiltulla/ Killimordaly star's fifth All Ireland final, Ryan is a seasoned pro to the big day buildup, but with only one success from four deciders has admitted getting to a final means nothing if they leave Croke Park empty handed.

"It is brilliant [to get to Croke Park]. We have worked really hard this year to get there. This team deserves to get there. The well wishes and support is great. They came on thick and fast after the semi-final. I think everyone saw the work that has gone on after the semi-final and can appreciate it.

"It is great for players to get that support and we need every bit of that support going into an All-Ireland final and hopefully they do travel in their numbers because that extra roar against Cork meant everything to us.

"[But] to be in a final is one thing but every player within our group knows that there is no point being in the final. We've had really good preparation and have another couple of things to work on over the coming days but we'll be ready."

 

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