“Get Out of the Car”: How Ciara’s Story Inspires the Next Generation of GAA Girls at Cilles

For many girls in the club, football starts as a fun pastime — a way to burn energy, be with friends, and pick up a few new skills. For Ciara, her journey began just like that. But over the years, it became something far more meaningful: a passion, a challenge, and a source of lifelong friendships. As girls' participation in GAA often drops dramatically around the U16 age group, stories like Ciara’s remind us why it’s worth sticking with it — even when it’s tough.

From Blitz Days to Club Life

Ciara’s football journey began in primary school when her teacher, Rebecca Kirwan — now her teammate — introduced the class to Gaelic football through a six-week programme. “I knew none of the rules and couldn’t even hand pass the ball,” she laughs, “but I really enjoyed it.” That early encouragement sparked something in Ciara. Soon after, she joined Colmcilles at just 11 years old. What started as a fun school activity turned into a key part of her life, largely thanks to passionate mentors like Rebecca and former Meath Senior player Orla Byrne. “I really wanted to improve because all the girls in my class were so much better,” Ciara recalls. “That drove me to join the club and start working harder.”

Hard Work Pays Off

Ciara’s path through the ranks wasn’t always straightforward. She started on the second team, moved to the third team at U14, and it was around then she became determined to push herself further. After the 2021 lockdown, she became “obsessed with getting better.” “I’d make my dad bring me down to Piltown on the weekends to work on shooting. I was doing extra runs and even gym workouts”, she says. That dedication paid off. Ciara made the U15 Féile team that summer and earned a place on the first team just a few months later. “For me, it’s always been about more than just winning — it’s the challenge of becoming a better player.”

The Moment That Nearly Didn't Happen

One of Ciara’s most defining football memories almost didn’t happen. After just one senior training session, she was invited to play in a Ladies challenge match. Nervous and overwhelmed, she sat in the car at the pitch for 20 minutes, watching players she looked up to arrive. “I nearly told my dad to drive home. I didn’t think I belonged there,” she admits. It wasn’t until her dad gently said, “Ciara, I’ve driven all the way over here – you have to get out and follow them in,” that she finally stepped out. That simple decision changed everything. “I often think what would’ve happened if I stayed in the car. I was one choice away from missing out on the journey I’m now on.”

Her message to younger girls? “Do the scary thing. Step out of the car. You never know what it could lead to.”

The Power of People

Ask Ciara what’s kept her playing and her answer is simple: the people. “I’ve been lucky to have incredible teammates, coaches, and friends through Cilles. I’ve made genuine, lasting friendships — girls I’ve grown up with on the pitch and off it.” She credits the team for being a space where players look out for one another, whether it’s a word of encouragement after a tough game or offering a lift home from training. “Despite being at different stages of life, everyone wants the best for each other,” she says.

Finding Balance — and Perspective

Ciara is honest about the challenges of balancing football with school and other commitments. Her advice to younger players? “Don’t quit just because you’re busy. Even one session a week can help clear your head. Football is a break from life’s pressures.” She urges players not to bottle up the stress — to talk to coaches or teammates when things feel too much. “You don’t have to do it all — you just have to try. And that’s enough.”

What can we do better?

Ciara believes that keeping girls in the game means putting people first — and sometimes, that means stepping away from the pitch. She recommends more fun, non-football bonding days to keep the joy front and center. “When football becomes too competitive, you can forget why you started. Fun days out remind us that it’s about enjoying the game — and each other.” Simple things like team walks, movie nights, beach days, or even just grabbing food together can go a long way. “When girls feel part of something bigger than just training and matches, they’re more likely to stay involved.”

Ultimately, it’s about balance — between performance and enjoyment, structure and spontaneity, goals and giggles. “The more we focus on building a strong team culture, the more likely girls are to stay. They’ll remember the laughs just as much as the wins.”

A Final Word to Young Players

“I just want girls to know that it’s okay to feel unsure sometimes. It’s okay to be nervous. But don’t let those moments stop you. Football has given me confidence, friendships, and memories I’ll never forget. If I had stayed in that car, I’d have missed all of it.” So, to the next Ciara sitting nervously in the car: take a deep breath, and step out onto the pitch. Your journey is just getting started.