Winning the All-Ireland took Muireann Devaney's breath away

Dual Sports star Muireann Devaney is next up in our Sports Review of 2024 as she looks back on an incredible year for Leitrim Ladies.

HIGHLIGHT OF THE YEAR

Winning the Intermediate Championship with Leitrim Ladies was a moment of pure magic and pride for everyone involved. Bringing the Mary Quinn Cup back to Leitrim was a triumph not just for the team, but for the entire county that supported us every step of the way. 

One of the standout moments was definitely beating Roscommon twice. The rivalry with them is fierce, and to come out on top in both encounters felt unreal. The intensity of the games, the passion on the field, and the energy from both teams made those victories feel even sweeter. Then, there was the magic of beating Tyrone at home, in front of our own fans, It felt like Leitrim was truly alive with pride and joy that day.

The moment that truly took my breath away of course, walking up the steps of the Hogan Stand. That was a moment I had always dreamed of as a child, watching heroes lift cups and trophies on the biggest stages. To be standing there, holding the Mary Quinn Cup above my head, was surreal.

It felt like all the hard work, sacrifices, and dreams I had as a young player had culminated in that one moment. It was the culmination of everything that makes sport so magical hard work, passion and teamwork. 

WILLIE DONNELLAN'S HIGHS & LOWS OF LEITRIM'S SPORTING YEAR IN 2024

To finish off a magical weekend walking up the Main Street of Manorhamilton with my club mates surrounded by family and friends was undoubtedly surreal. The sight of familiar faces, the pride in their eyes, and the feeling of home as we passed through the heart of Manorhamilton was something I will never forget.

LOWLIGHT OF THE YEAR

I suppose with all due respect to all committees involved and the huge task that faced them, the ambiguity surrounding our senior club championship final was certainly disappointing. Less than a week out from the county final, we had no confirmed date or venue due to the senior men’s final resulting in a draw and them automatically taking precedence over the ladies final for the Ballinamore venue.

PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR

It’s difficult to pick just one, but from my personal experience, the impact Charlene Tyrell and Clare Owens had on the Leitrim team in 2024 was truly remarkable. These two women are, without question, Leitrim stalwarts. Their dedication to the team and their unwavering contribution to Leitrim Ladies, both this year and in the years that have gone by, is nothing short of admirable. Beyond their on-field talent, what really sets them apart is their constant encouragement of the younger players. 

They make a point of lifting up the next generation, always offering advice and support. No training session or match day is ever complete without their presence, whether it’s their infectious energy, their ability to lighten the mood with endless laughter, or their commitment to pushing the team forward. Charlene and Clare are not just players, they are true leaders, and their influence on the team is felt far beyond the pitch. Their passion for Leitrim Ladies is evident in everything they do. Clare’s X-Factor entertainment during our all Ireland homecoming celebrations will never be forgotten.

TEAM OF THE YEAR

There are countless teams that could be recognised in a year where Gaelic games showcased extraordinary talent and exceptional performances. The Armagh football team, the Kerry Senior ladies, the Glencar Manor U17 boys, Coolera Strandhill and the Leitrim ladies all stand out for their remarkable achievements. 

I must give a special mention to my own clubmates and management team, who have set an incredible standard for both the men's and women's teams in Manorhamilton. Our success, including winning five senior championships in a row, has been extremely special. This achievement marks the first time a Glencar Manor senior team has ever reached such heights in Leitrim, and it's a testament to the dedication and hard work of the girls and management teams past and present. 

ELISE BRUEN LOOKS BACK OVER AN INCREDIBLE 2024

I’ll give a quiet mention to Kilkerrin Clonberne, whose success over the years has been nothing short of exceptional. Their consistent dominance and commitment to excellence set a benchmark for all clubs to aspire to, and they continue to be a formidable force in ladies football.

HERO OF THE YEAR

Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh will undoubtedly go down in LGFA history as one of the sport's greatest ambassadors and most accomplished players. Her remarkable 17-year journey with the Kerry ladies has left an indelible mark, not only for her extraordinary skill but also for her unwavering dedication and leadership. As a trailblazer, she has set a benchmark for excellence, demonstrating that with passion, resilience, and hard work, players can break barriers and achieve greatness.

EVENT THAT MADE YOU GO WOW IN 2024

Running out onto Croke Park with the Leitrim ladies is an indescribable feeling, something I’ve never experienced before. People often ask me what it was like, and honestly, it's one of the hardest things to put into words. It’s a whirlwind of emotion, energy, and excitement, and the time seems to fly by probably the quickest hour and a half you'll ever have. The atmosphere is electric; the roar of the crowd fills the air, and it’s almost overwhelming.

During the warm-up, you can barely hear the girls beside you. There’s a real sense of pride, knowing that you’re playing on such an iconic stage, and the nerves and adrenaline make every moment unforgettable. It's a dream come true, and the feeling of representing your county in Croke Park is something that stays with you forever. The final 10 seconds in Croke park where the Leitrim supporters joined in the countdown was the greatest feeling I have ever felt. 

ONE THING I’D DO TO MAKE SPORT BETTER IN 2025

I say it every year, but in 2025, I truly hope we can achieve a level playing field for both men and women in Leitrim. I believe that winning the Intermediate All-Ireland and beating Tyrone in Croke Park will inspire progress, such as equal access to the Centre of Excellence facilities, not just when the men’s season ends, but year-round. I would love to see a doubleheader of the ladies’ and men’s senior club championship final on the new surface at Páirc Sean. Regardless of which teams make it, I think this would be a significant step towards achieving greater equality in the sport and promoting the women’s game.

WHAT ARE THE BIG CHALLENGES FACING LEITRIM SPORT IN 2025?

From my own experience of managing some of the underage teams here in Manorhamilton, getting girls at minor and U16 level to consistently attend training and play matches is becoming more challenging with each passing year. As the years go by, it feels like there are more and more competing distractions for young players, whether it's academic pressures, social commitments, or other extracurricular activities. While the enthusiasm and talent are still there, it can be difficult to maintain the same level of commitment and participation.

ONE TO WATCH IN 2025

Keep an eye out for Bailey McBride, who played midfield for the Glencar Manor U17 team that reached the Connacht final in 2024. Bailey possesses all the qualities needed to become one of Manorhamilton's best midfielders in years to come.