Raffs Saffs - Roar but don't lose your voice

It’s been a couple of weeks since my last update - oh that sounds like the start of a confession 🙈. Having finally got myself through a rough assessment and interview I’m firmly and delighted to be back on football duty – don’t you just hate when your job gets in the way of your real work 😎

Lots of things have happened, our history makers competed in a Platinum All Ireland Semi Final – and according to all spectators was one of the most intense games of football ever witnessed. If anyone was ever in doubt about the quality of Ladies Football then this game would have absolutely blown them away 👏 

I was unable to attend as I had taken a group of U12s to play half time games at the Senior game but that didn’t stop me phoning Ciara Devine and being on the other end of the phone as the ball went over the bar to send us through to free kicks. I stayed on the line and heard and felt every emotion as each kick of the ball came and went. As devastating as it was for the team, management and supporters to get so close to the final they held their heads high and wished Galway all the best in the final. I’ve had so many messages telling my how amazing our girls were that day – not that I needed telling I already know how amazing our superstars are. For me, the day they won the Platinum Ulster Final was fantastic, that day they became history makers in the County and anything after that was a bonus. I know I’ve said it before but the future of Antrim football is so exciting. I can’t wait to see how this team progresses over the next few years. 💪💛
Thanks again to you all for my gorgeous flowers; they still have pride of place at home on my fireplace 💐

That same day our Senior Team stepped onto the field in Killyclogher to take on Derry in their second Ulster Semi Final, a defeat would see the end of the Ulster Campaign and a win would see them head to the final to meet familiar faces in Fermanagh. 

The team spirit shone through as did the talent we’ve always known was there and they did it, they booked their place in the Final. It is testament to the family feeling of our county that the first thing I was asked as I greeted the team off the field was, how did the 14s do? This just shows that we win and lose together, not as individual teams but as a County  

This Sunday in Clones, the home of Ulster Football, we meet Fermanagh for the fourth time this year. So far they have had the upper hand but our Senior team have nothing to lose and everything to gain. They are a young, vibrant and talented squad with skills to burn; perhaps the only thing they lack, is the belief in themselves. Well I believe in them, I believe they can and will become Ulster Champions on Sunday #LetThemHearYouRoar

Last week Corrigan Park was sold out for the Antrim Men’s game, I hope that our girls get as much support this weekend as they attempt once more this year to climb the steps and lift the trophy. I will be there cheering them on and hopefully not losing my voice in the process this time 🙊

Until next time always remember Team Work Makes The Dream Work
#Saffstogether 💛💛