Her Moves: Annie Donnelly's Story

Annie Donnelly is a 14-year-old girl from County Tipperary with a massive love for sport and activity! Annie is visually impaired but this has not stopped her from stepping out of her comfort zone and diving into a variety of different sports. We spoke with Annie last week and asked her a few questions about her relationship with sport and activity and her story so far.

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How/when did you first get involved in your sport?

I began horse riding in a local riding school at the age of 5 because it was the only thing I was able to do locally due to my vision. When I was 10, more opportunities became available to me, and I took up blind soccer, swimming, and tandem cycling.

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Are there any other sports/activities that you did before the sport you do now?

I did blind soccer for 2 years but eventually gave it up because I was one of only 2 girls participating.

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How has sport and physical activity impacted your life?

Sport and physical activity are very important in my life as I love being active, and I feel that sport gives me freedom.

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Who inspires you to be active?

My family inspires me to be active by being active themselves and being supportive and motivating.

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What does your school do to encourage an active environment?

My school encourages an active environment by participating in a variety of sports such as, soccer, rugby and badminton. They also have inclusive P.E. classes that allow me to participate to my full potential despite my visual impairment. The school also links in with sports campaigns such as Women in Sport.

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Who has been your most influential coach (if any) and why?

My most influential coach was my swim coach, Frank. He made me believe in myself when I never imagined I would be able to swim. He explained swimming techniques brilliantly and was so supportive and an excellent coach.

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Have you noticed other girls your age stepping away from sport? If so, how does that make you feel?

I have noticed many girls my age dropping out of sports such as GAA. This makes me sad to see a young girl give up her passions and talents.

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What’s your advice to someone thinking about dropping out of sport?

To anyone contemplating dropping out, I would advise that you don’t give up on a sport that you enjoy. Sports encourage a healthy lifestyle, friendship, and community. I promise you will regret it, so I advise you to stay determined and pursue your passion.

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Is there any advice you have for parents trying to support their daughter participating in sport?

To parents trying to support their daughter in sport, I simply advise that you stand with your daughter and show your interest in her passion. Interest is extremely important in the female sport industry and helps girls to keep up sport and activity.

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Do you have any advice for someone thinking of getting involved in sport or physical activity?

My advice for someone thinking of getting involved in sport or physical activity is to go for it! Find a sport you enjoy and give it your best effort. Sports bring so many benefits, and you'll have a great time being active.

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Who is your female sporting role model?

Rachel Blackmore is my female sporting role model because she is from Tipperary and the first woman to win the Aintree Grand National. She has achieved amazing goals in a male-dominated sport.

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Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I am a huge chocoholic and not able to function whatsoever without chocolate in me!

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A special thanks to Annie for telling Her Moves all about her story. If you have an interesting story to tell, please let us know. You can message us on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter!

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#FINDSOMETHINGTHATMOVESYOU

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