Angela Casey | Annette Clarke | Briege Corkery | Bernie Finlay | Lorna Joyce
Kate Leahy | Angie McNally | Valerie Mulcahy | Mary Nevin | Bronagh O'Donnell Geraldine O'Shea | Grainne Smith | Cora Staunton | Aisling Tierney

Mary Nevin helped Dublin to their fourth Leinster title in a row this year as John O'Leary's Ladies continued to dominate in the province. The Dubs defeated Meath by 2-13 to 1-13 in the final – a thriller at Dr Cullen Park - with Mary playing a vital role. The 2004 All-Star, who is one of the Dubs' main attacking threats, is also the side's free-taker and her last-gasp point earned a draw against Laois in the earlier rounds of the round-robin series. Dublin then saw off the challenge of Tyrone in the quarter-final to set up a semi-final clash against their old enemies Galway.

The Dubs were out for revenge as the women from the west had denied them the All-Ireland title last year. However, Mary and her side ended up on the losing side as the Tribeswomen outclassed them on the day.

What has been your greatest moment in sport?
Without doubt, my most amazing experience was when we ran over to Hill 16 in Croker after beating Tyrone in the quarter-final this year. The Dublin fans went crazy. We also played in Croke Park in the 2003 and 2004 All-Ireland finals.

Which is the toughest team you have ever faced?
Ballyboden St Endas from Dublin. They beat us in the Club Championship this year and last year they won the Leinster and the All-Ireland. They are a really strong team.

Your toughest opponent?
Louise Kearns who also plays for Na Fianna. I have to face her in our tough training sessions.

How do you balance your job and football?
Sport has always been high on my list of priorities so I am used to the hectic schedule. This year I moved house, finished a Masters Degree in Education and worked as a nurse so it was a bit mad, but I really love my football so I don’t mind.

Which player do you admire the most?
Peter Canavan, because he is such an inspiration. He is in the game for such a long time and he is so dedicated and such a consistent player. Also, Angie McNally from Ballinteer is a great player who is very focused and dedicated.

Who was your childhood sporting hero?
Roy Keane and Tiger Woods. Both show great dedication and mental focus.

What club do you play for & who are your biggest rivals?
I play for Na Fianna and our biggest club rivals are definitely Ballyboden.

Do you play other sports?
Swimming and Golf. I used to play soccer and camogie but now I give football 100%.

What are your hopes for the future?
I hope that support for Ladies football continues to grow all over the country.

What advice would you give to young players?
Listen to your coaches. Sometimes they can see what you can’t see. Practise your skills. Enjoy it when you win because you will also have to face losing.

© December 2005

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