Gemma Begley | Angela Casey | Annette Clarke | Nollaig Cleary
Edel Concannon | Katrina Connolly | Briege Corkery | Bernie Finlay
Lorna Joyce | Kate Leah | Fiona McHale | Sarah McLoughlin | Angie McNally
Valerie Mulcahy | Andrea Murphy | Juliet Murphy | Mary Nevin
Bronagh O'Donnell | Geraldine O'Shea | Grainne Smith | Cora Staunton
Aisling Tierney | Patrice Dennehy 
The fortunes of Cork midfield star Juliet Murphy have undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. After years of struggling to make a mark in Ladies Football, the Rebelettes finally made the big breakthrough when they beat Galway to win the National League title in 2005. Since then they have dominated the inter-county scene with captain Juliet leading the charge.
Formerly a successful basketball player with Ireland and University of Limerick, the Donoughmore clubwoman’s outstanding fielding and non-stop running has played a major part in Cork’s recent success.
Cork’s 2005 exploits and their five All-Star Awards were seen by many as a once-off. However, when the Rebelettes beat Meath in this year’s National League final, nobody could deny that there was a new power in Ladies Football. With Juliet playing out of her skin, Cork went on to beat Laois in Tullamore before going on to retain the Brendan Martin Cup, staging a courageous comeback against Armagh in a hard-fought final to win by a point. After completing the double double there can only be one aim for Juliet in the year ahead. You guessed it – three-in-a-row of National League and All-Ireland titles! With such a spirited and enthusiastic squad of players I wouldn’t bet against it.
It’s been a great few years for Ladies football in Cork, winning back-to back All-Irelands and National Leagues. What is it like being part of such a successful team?
It’s been super! There is a great spirit and camaraderie in the squad. There are no individuals and we always try to perform as a unit. We set out goals for ourselves at the start of 2005 and these have been met and we are looking forward to more success in the future.
What has been the highlight for you?
Lifting the Brendan Martin Cup aloft for the first time in 2005 in front of all our supporters. That was a brilliant feeling.
Who are the toughest team you have ever faced?
Over the last few years Mayo and Armagh have been the two strongest teams we have played.
Who are the toughest opponents out there?
They are all tough but if I had to single one player out it would have to be Claire Egan from Meath.
How do you balance your work and football?
I am a fitness instructor so the two go hand in hand.
Which player do you admire the most?
There is no one player above everyone else. Collectively speaking I would pick all my teammates on the Cork team, they take their sport very seriously and always give 100%.
Who was your childhood hero?
I was a big fan of the basketball player Michael Jordan. I also looked up to my older brother Ollie who used to teach me the skills of Gaelic football.
What club do you play for and who are your biggest rivals?
Donoughmore is my club and our biggest rivals would be Rockchapel.
Do you play any other sports?
Basketball.
What’s the most important skill in the game, in your opinion?
Our coach Eamonn Ryan puts great emphasis on tackling. We do a lot of work on trying to tap the ball away from opposing players and to try to gain possession of the ball. Possession is half the battle. Winning the ball without fouling is a great skill and should be worked on a lot by all teams.
What are your hopes for the future?
To make the most of my playing career and enjoy my time playing at the highest level. It would be great to complete the 3-in-a-row next year, that would be the icing on the cake.
What advice would you give to young players?
Keep believing in yourself. Even when things are not going right, keep at it and you will be rewarded.
Name: Juliet Murphy
Age: 26
Team: Cork
Debut: 1995 v Kerry
Position: Midfield
Honours:
2 All-Ireland Senior titles,
3 Munster Senior titles,
2 National Football League titles,
2 All-Ireland Club titles,
4 Munster Club titles,
11 Senior County Club titles.
Club: Donoughmore
Fav Food: Toasted sandwiches
Fav Book: Paula Radcliffe’s book
Fav Music: Declan O’Rourke and Damien Rice
Fav Film: Seven
Fav TV: Desperate Housewives
Fav Team: Munster rugby team
Hobbies: Cycling and crosswords
Occupation: Fitness instructor
CÚLFACT:
Juliet’s Dad, Mike Murphy, was All-Ireland Road Bowling Champion in 1986.
© December 2006 |
