7 hours Ago By BreakingNews.ie
Not many players can say they have won an All-Ireland title with their club at the age of 18, but Aisling Madden has done just that. The Kilkerrin-Clonberne woman played an important role in continuing her club's dominance of senior club football, helping them secure their fourth All-Ireland title in a row. Advertisement Having played a part in the 2023 success, Madden was crucial to their 2024 triumph, which she says made it all the more special.
“This year, I think I found it more special than any of the other years because I was starting and more of a main part of the team. “It is brilliant to get another one. I am incredibly lucky, really, to be part of such a good club team.
“To have joined the team at a stage when we started winning All-Irelands, there was such a huge number of brilliant players on the team—the Divillys, the Noones, the Wards. I came along at a good time. Advertisement “I had a couple of years to develop and play with them, just enhancing my skills and getting better before I got the chance to get on the field and be with them.
“It is definitely surreal to be winning All-Irelands with my club at such a young age.” This Kilkerrin-Clonberne side boasts experience and quality all over the pitch, with Olivia and Siobhán Divilly and Nicola Ward not only delivering for their club on the biggest stage but also excelling at county level. At a time of great success, the UCD student is grateful for the support she has received from the senior players in the team.
Advertisement “Siobhán Divilly comes to mind. I was midfield with her, and she provided a lot of guidance and support both on and off the pitch. “The Wards are always offering guidance and encouragement.
No matter what you do, they always want you to be the best you can be. “They want the team to succeed, so ensuring the younger players are supported is a major part of that as well.” It is a busy time of year for the Galway woman, who will be part of the UCD side competing in the O’Connor Cup next week.
Advertisement Last weekend, Madden came off the bench for Galway as they got their Division Two campaign underway with a win over Tipperary. For Madden, who impressed at minor level, patience is key as she looks to establish herself in the Galway senior squad. “I got a couple of minutes in the Tipperary match, and I’m just delighted to get some game time in the league.
Getting a bit of experience in the inter-county setup—it’s very different from minor. “You can’t get anywhere easily; it all takes hard work. None of these matches are going to be an easy win, and we’re not going to get any victories the easy way.
“You’re setting different goals for each match, trying to achieve them, and doing your best each week.”.
