Equality for women's sport a sticking point for Leitrim's dual sports star Muireann Devaney

We're back to that time of the year where we look back and look forward at the same time and in the Observer sports department, we're no different! Or maybe we know what works as we return with our popular sports review of 2023 over the next few weeks.

The Leitrim Observer invited some of the county's outstanding sports people and journalists to look back over 2023, picking out their highs and lows. 

In this piece, dual sports star Muireann Devaney talks about the fight for equality for ladies sport, the exploits of Katie McCabe and David Clifford and the challenges facing Leitrim sport. Here, in Muireann’s own words, are the highs and lows of the 2023 Sporting year.

Leitrim GAA & LGFA 50 Miles in January Challenge off to a flying start - GALLERY

Supporters from Leitrim GAA & LGFA gathered on New Year's Day in Avant Money Pairc Sean Mac Diarmada to start off 2024 in style at the start of the 50 Miles in January Fundraising Challenge and Observer photographer Willie Donnellan was there too to capture the event ...... see who you can spot!

LOWLIGHT OF THE YEAR

I’m unsure what was more disappointing this year - The fact the biggest day of ladies' football in Leitrim was played on a Saturday or the venue was not Pairc Sean, our county field. Everyone talks about equality and the improvements being made when you see the men’s junior B final held in Pairc Sean and not one ladies final across senior, intermediate or junior grades, you really do wonder where the equality is in Leitrim.

HIGHLIGHT OF THE YEAR

It’s hard to look beyond some of the great sporting days I’ve had personally this year with both Athlone Town and Glencar Manor senior ladies. After the disappointment of last year's cup final, beating Shelbourne on penalties this year was a surreal experience and one I’ll treasure for years to come. Without a doubt winning four in a row senior championships was a dream come true and being able to play my part that day couldn’t have made me happier before playing for Athlone Town that evening and winning against Sligo Rovers. 

Another highlight came on Sunday October 22, when Glencar Manorhamilton Ladies made history for the club when we hosted the first Connacht Club match in Manorhamilton on our new pitch in Boggaun. This was definitely a day to be remembered for many reasons, not least for the volunteer work done by so many to make the day such a success but also the sense of pride I felt as the sun shone on the winning score on the new scoreboard on our fabulous pitch. It’s far from finished yet but it is a credit to all those involved in the club who have brought it this far.

PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR

When it comes to inspiring the next generation who does it better than, A - David Clifford and B - Katie McCabe -  the outrageous skill, determination and success to date is nothing but incredible from two of Ireland's greatest ever sports people this year in particular. Katie McCabe led the Ireland senior women’s side to their first ever World Cup, scoring one of the greatest goals in the tournament to her Ballon d’Or nomination 2023. David Clifford’s back to back player of the year award after what was a difficult year for him both on and off the pitch he epitomises what a true sporting legend really is. 

TEAM OF THE YEAR

For me the Limerick hurlers get the nod winning four All Ireland titles in a row is nothing short of incredible. Their resilience, determination and commitment each year is something every team should be striving towards.

ONE THING I’D DO TO MAKE SPORT BETTER IN 2024

As I say most years, Leitrim have a long way to go before the ladies representing both their club or county feel equal to their male counterparts. Funding and facilities for the women's game are a long way off the mens. Hopefully, changes in the integration policy this year will bring about gender equality within the GAA & LGFA.

PJ Leddy's highs and lows of Leitrim's sporting year in 2023

PERSON THAT MADE YOU GO WOW IN 2023 

JP McManus is a person that all GAA people will be forever grateful too after he announced his €1 million donation to every county board in Ireland. For me personally I couldn’t really believe somebody could be that generous therefore he’s my “wow” of the year.

ONE TO WATCH IN 2024

In 2023 Grace Devaney and Nessa Fox two underage Glencar Manorhamilton girls lit up every game they played in both soccer and Gaelic. Grace, a talented midfielder, has the ability to nearly win a game on her own while Nessa has shown tremendous skill and there is no doubt in the future she will be one of Glencar Manorhamilton’s most talented Ladies footballers. So for me I look forward to seeing what 2024 brings for them and I can’t wait to play alongside both. With talents like these two the future is even brighter for the Glencar Manorhamilton Ladies.