In this, the first stages of the qualifying round, they play host to the Republic of Ireland, Czech Republic and FYR Macedonia from the 16th- 21st October.
Speaking prior to the team’s residential last weekend, coach Niall Curneen spoke of his confidence in the side, but claimed, they are ‘under no illusions’ of the task in hand.
A former grassroots development officer, Curneen was appointed U17s coach, two and a half years ago. He describes his squad and coaching staff as a ‘close knit pack’. “We spend a lot of time together and as a result of that, have all become very close. We have quite a lot of characters in the squad, but they are all team players and not individually driven. There’s a great team spirit within the side, one which has developed naturally,” he said.
In the run up to this tournament, the U17s and coaching staff have met on a weekly basis for the past 3 months. The residential allows the squad to focus on finer details and techniques, as well as improve their fitness.
Niall praised assistant coaches, Alison Nichol and Heather McCracken, for their efforts in training. “Both Alison and Heather are very reliable and we equally share the coaching responsibilities. We are fortunate to work with a group of dedicated and committed young women, especially given the age of the squad. They are at a very critical stage in school, studying for their GCSEs but full credit to the girls, as they have all stepped up to the mark.”
In addition to training with the U17s, the girls are also involved in county excellence programmes and have club commitments.
Niall believes the success of the senior women’s side, in their recent European campaign has helped to raise the profile of the game. “It is without doubt, the success of the senior side has really helped us. The seniors often train with us and their recent achievements are an extra incentive for the girls,” he said.
The U17s will play the Republic of Ireland in the opening game of the tournament (Saturday 16th October) at Shamrock Park. “As well as being our close neighbours, they are also considered our big rivals. This will be a tough encounter, as their U17s have just returned from the U17 World Cup after having reached the quarter final stages, explained Niall.
Author: Natalie McCullough
