Her Moves: Labhaoise O’Donnell's Story
"Sport creates friendships and is a great way to stay active. I’ve created so many valuable memories through sport." - Labhaoise O’Donnell
Labhaoise O’Donnell is an 18-year-old,camogie player for Scariff-Ogonnelloe and Clare. She was a part of the team who won the Premier Junior All-Ireland final 2023. We spoke with Labhaoise last week and asked her a few questions about her relationship with sport and activity and her story so far.
HOW/WHEN DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED IN YOUR SPORT?
I first started playing camogie when I was 7-years-old at my local pitch in Scariff. My Mam was the one who introduced me to the sport of camoige.
Are there any other sport/activities that you did before the sport you do now?
I used to play soccer a couple of years ago for Tulla United, and I did track and field with Tulla Athletic Club. So, I’ve always been active in some form or another.
Who inspires you to be active?
My teammates and trainers inspire me to be active. We drive each other on, I love being in an environment that is so supportive.
What does your school do to encourage an active environment?
My school has encouraged girls to be a part of the school’s teams, because of this many girls have been involved in activities that they have never played before. I never tried basketball until I was asked to play in school.
Who has been your most influential coach (if any) and why?
Derick Murphy has been the most inspiring to me. He was my camogie club underage coach for many years. He has so much passion for the game and brings out the best in all of us.
Have you noticed other girls your age stepping away from sport? If so, how does that make you feel?
Many girls my age stop playing sport, I’ve seen it first hand. It’s disheartening to see girls drop out of a sport that they used to love.
What’s your advice to someone thinking about dropping out of sport?
I would advise them to stick at it! Sport creates friendships and is a great way to stay active. I’ve created so many valuable memories through sport.
Is there any advice you have for parents trying to support their daughter participating in sport?
Just encourage them and let them try out as many sports as they want when they’re young.
Have you any advice for someone thinking of getting involved in sport or physical activity?
I would strongly advise them to participate. Getting active has both physical and mental benefits, it’s great for making friends and having fun!
Who is your female sporting role model?
My role model would be Katie Taylor, I’ve always looked up to her.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself?
I was born in California.
A SPECIAL THANKS TO LABHAOISE 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!
#FINDSOMETHINGTHATMOVESYOU
Photography - John Kelly
