Ward Questions Leadership After ‘Skort’ Furor

In a stunning turn of events, Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team (WNT) manager Carla Ward has openly questioned whether the executive leadership of the Camogie Association should remain in their roles. Ward’s remarks follow the recent postponement of the Munster camogie final between Cork and Waterford due to both teams’ refusal to wear ‘skorts’ instead of shorts, as per the rule book.

“It is absolutely ludicrous. It is mental to be even having these sort of conversations in 2025. It is an old mentality… [Ireland] is a big sporting country so it is just unbelievable. It is very outdated.”

Ireland’s Footballing Future: Injuries and Retirements

• Midfielder Heather Payne is out with an Achilles tendon injury for upcoming Nations League fixtures against Turkey (May 30) and Slovenia (June 3).
• Forward Leanne Kiernan is also sidelined with a quad injury, missing the above matches.
• Veteran defender Louise Quinn, with 121 caps, is set to rejoin the squad before retirement later this summer.
• Captain Katie McCabe may miss the Turkey match due to Arsenal’s Champions League final on May 24.

Whiteley’s Dilemma: Liverpool and Ireland

Amber Whiteley, the interim manager of Liverpool and an assistant coach for the Republic of Ireland, may have her loyalties split. “Of course we want to keep Amber, but if she gets the [Liverpool] head coach job, I will be the first to congratulate her,” Ward stated.

Looking Ahead: Ireland’s Nations League Journey

The Republic of Ireland WNT will travel to Turkey on May 30 and face Slovenia in the group stages’ final match at Páirc Uí Chaoimh on June 3. With injuries and retirements, young talents will have opportunities to shine under Ward’s tutelage.

“Do I think Lou [Quinn] can play a part in helping those young players breed leadership? Absolutely, I do.”

FAQ

What sparked Carla Ward’s comments?

The postponement of the Munster camogie final devido to teams’ refusal to wear ‘skorts’.

What key players are ruled out for Ireland’s upcoming fixtures?

Heather Payne and Leanne Kiernan.

Who is set to rejoin the Irish squad?

Louise Quinn.

Did you know?

The Republic of Ireland WNT changed to navy shorts in 2023 to address “period anxiety,” following the lead of the men’s rugby team.

Pro Tip

Keep an eye on young talents stepping up during Ireland’s Nations League campaign.

Final Thoughts

Carla Ward’s comments and the changes in the Republic of Ireland WNT’s roster have set the stage for an intriguing Nations League journey. With a blend of veterans and promising youngsters, Ireland will aim to make its mark in the competition.

Sources

• Camogie Association – Wikipedia
• Irish Times