Jane Adams | Veronica Curtin | Claire Doherty | Mags D'Arcy
Aisling Diamond | Shónagh Enright | Jessica Gill | Fiona Hahnefeld | Mary Lacey Ciara Lucey | Therese Maher | Mairin McAleenan | Eimear McDonnell
Sinéad Millea | Niamh Mulcahy | Eileen O'Brien | Mary O'Connor
Una O'Donaghue | Una O'Dwyer | Imelda Kennedy | Catherine O'Loughlin
Jen O'Leary | Joanne Ryan | Marie Dargan | Sinéad Cahalan
Tina Hannon | Trish Jackman
This year has been an outstanding year in Claire Doherty’s camogie career. After losing out to Clare by a single point in a thrilling National League final, they picked up the pieces and went on to win the Ulster Junior title beating arch-rivals Down by 5-13 to 2-7. Some stunning displays in the Championship against Down and Waterford set them up for an All-Ireland Junior final showdown with 2005 Champions Dublin in Tullamore last month. Sadly, it wasn’t to be Derry’s day and they lost out to the Dubs in a scoreline of 0-12 to 1-7.
Derry hurling and camogie is on the crest of a wave following a Nicky Rackard Cup victory for the men and the U-16’s winning the All-Ireland Camogie B Final. A star in the Derry defence for the last decade, Claire is optimistic about the county’s future and is looking forward to building on this year’s successes.
What has been your greatest moment in sport?
Winning the All-Ireland Junior title back in 2000 was fantastic. We beat Cork as well, which was extra special.
Who are the toughest team you have ever faced?
We came up against Cork at senior level and they were really tough. They are so fit, strong and skillful.
Who is the toughest opponent out there?
Mairin McAleenan from Down.
How do you balance your work and camogie?
It’s habit really. Camogie becomes part of your life and you make time for it without even thinking.
Which players do you admire the most?
I’m a big fan of Clare’s Seanie McMahon - he also plays at centre back. In the camogie scene, it has to be Down’s Mairin McAleenan, who is a superstar of the game.
What club do you play for and who are your biggest rivals?
I play my club camogie with Slaughtneil. Our main rivals are Swatragh and Lavey. Swatragh reached the All-Ireland Club final in 2000, they are a very good side.
What are your hopes for the future?
I would live to win a club championship medal with Slaughtneil. Other than that, to keep playing at the highest level possible.
What advice would you give to young players?
Always put in the effort and dedication. If you ever get the chance to represent your county, always give it your best shot.
What is the most important skill of the game?
As a centre back I think tackling is the most important skill there is. Keep practising your tackles and you wont give as many fouls away.
© September 2006 |
