‘Only team to do it’: Carlow Ladies Footballers prepare for costly trip to London for championship
Carlow have won all all 14 of their matches so far this year
The Carlow LGFA manager has appealed for public support as the county’s unbeaten ladies footballers prepare for a trip to London for the championship later this month.
Carlow have won all all 14 of their matches so far this year and are feeling confident ahead of the game in London.
Ed Burke says the girls are looking forward to the trip, despite it being quite costly.
He has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the costs and is appealing for support.
“Every year one county has to travel to London and in the draw this year it was Carlow who came out,” he explained.
It’s estimated that the trip will cost around €25,000 when factors such as accommodation, flights, buses, and food are considered.
The LGFA do offer a grant today clubs, but it is not enough to cover the cost of the London trip.
“We do get a bit of a grant from the LGFA but unfortunately it’s not enough to cover the whole trip, which will equate to over 30% of the club’s annual expenses.
Despite the financial challenge, spirits remain high within the squad following a sensational start to the season.
Carlow opened their championship campaign with victory over Limerick last weekend and remain unbeaten in all competitions.
“So far this year we’ve played 14 games and we’ve won 14 games,” Burke said.
“I think we could be the only team in men’s and women’s Gaelic football in the country to do so. We’re looking confident heading into the next few weeks,” he added.
The Carlow ladies will travel to Ruislip to take on the London county team, which is traditionally made up of a mixture of local players and Irish people living there.
While the trip comes with significant costs, Burke says the players are relishing the opportunity.
“They’re excited. I think they were delighted to get the trip because it’s something different. It’s a new experience in some senses and they’re all looking forward to it,” Ed said.
The Carlow manager also paid tribute to the commitment shown by his panel throughout the season.
The squad trains together three nights per week, with additional gym sessions on at least two other evenings.
“It’s a big commitment, whether they have a family, are working or have other responsibilities. You have to commit fully if you’re going to do it and all of them do,” he highlighted.
Carlow currently have a panel of 28 players and Burke says every member of the squad plays an important role.
Off the field, the players continue to promote ladies football throughout the county, regularly visiting schools and encouraging young girls to get involved with local clubs.
While ladies football continues to grow, Burke believes the current squad deserves greater recognition for their achievements.
“As sports teams go, we’re probably one of the most successful Carlow teams so far this year, so we’re trying to generate as much interest and publicity as we can,” Ed said.
With an unbeaten record intact and championship ambitions firmly on track, the Carlow’ ladies footballers now hope the county will support them in their trip to London.
To do so, donate to their GoFundMe here.