As of early January and right through summer, I was very lucky to receive the opportunity to play for both U16 county gaelic football and camogie teams for Galway. I was hoping to make an appearance on at least one of the teams. I fortunately started on both. This was a surreal experience for me as I got to wear both football and camogie jerseys for my county.
As I was involved with two county squads, I was also preparing for my Junior Certificate examination in the month of June. At the time, it was hard to juggle all the things going on in my life. As a county player, it was so important that I had a plan for study, training and time with family and friends. If I wanted to stay involved with both teams, it was going to be a massive commitment. This was no issue, as I was willing to put that commitment into what I loved to do.
I found time by making many sacrifices. As a sixteen year old, there are so many distractions that are in our lives. To make time, I had to sacrifice these small things such as my phone usage and nights out/discos. Although it was annoying, it had to be done if I wanted to continue doing what I loved.
When playing for any county team, self care is so important. Due to overload of training and matches, I found that my body was run down a lot. I was overworking myself and going to bed early was an issue. It is very important that you listen to yourself and your body and take a step back if it is needed. You may be playing for your county, but at the end of the day your health takes precedence.
Being involved with a county setup brought me on as a individual and also a team player. I learnt many different values that I may need to be a successful sportsperson. One of those values being perseverence. I really enjoyed attending any training session or match with both county teams, because I knew every girl had the willpower to work hard, regardless of how hard the training or match was. Since then, I have been using this value at club and school levels.
The value of perseverence is just as important at club and school level. I use it by encouraging everybody else, no matter how much we are losing or winning by. I also never let my standards drop. By doing this, I hope to show girls I play with at school and club, the importance of this value.
A benefit of county teams and sport in general is meeting new people. I was lucky to meet new girls and management on two teams. I am confident I made friends for life after my year of sport with Galway. I thank the handful of people that I met and gave me an experience I will never forget. Everyone pushed each other and positivity was key amongst everyone.
Sport, or any type of exercise is very important for teenagers. The benefits of sport help teenagers in ample ways. Sports is a way to detach yourself from reality. It helps concentration levels and makes you feel good. It keeps teenagers fit and also prevents social problems. There is many different ways to exercise and there is definitely something for everyone.
I would not change anything I have experienced over the last year. I am only hoping to move upwards from here to play for minor and senior levels for both sports. It is a privilege to play for any county team under any sport. If you every get the opportunity, take it. This applies to anything!
Emily Brogan is a TY student at Colaiste Bhaile Chlair on work experience this week at the Galway Advertiser. She is a dual county player and plays camogie for Carnmore and Claregalway GAA
