Aileen Gilroy: From Mayo to the AFLW
Since making the move to Australia in 2020, Aileen Gilroy from Mayo has established herself as one of the standout players in the Women’s Australian Football League (AFLW). Playing for Hawthorn, Gilroy is part of a group of over 30 Irish players competing in the league.
Embracing a New Challenge
Initially hesitant about moving to Australia, Gilroy’s perspective changed after witnessing the professional environment and dedication to AFLW. The influence of former teammate Cora Staunton, who paved the way for Irish players in the league, played a significant role in Gilroy’s decision to pursue a career in Australia.
Reflecting on her journey, Gilroy shared, “The experience of embracing a professional lifestyle and focusing solely on AFLW was a major draw for me. The emphasis on strength and conditioning in Australia opened my eyes to new possibilities.”
Settling In
Despite initial uncertainties, Gilroy found a sense of home in Australia, surrounded by familiar faces from Mayo and a supportive community. In 2022, she made the transition to Hawthorn, where she was joined by fellow Irish player Áine McDonagh, strengthening their bond on the field.
Gilroy expressed, “Having Áine McDonagh on the team has been a great asset. Our shared background in Gaelic football allows us to anticipate each other’s moves and collaborate effectively on the field.”
Advocating for Improvement
Drawing from her experience in both inter-county football and AFLW, Gilroy emphasized the importance of enhanced facilities, coaching, and player development in women’s sports. She highlighted the impact of structured strength and conditioning programs and tailored coaching strategies in elevating team performance.
Gilroy remarked, “In Ladies Football, there is a need for more specialized coaching roles to enhance player development. The focus on strength and conditioning, coupled with video analysis, can significantly benefit teams and individual players.”
Promoting Women’s Sport
Recognizing the efforts of the AFLW in promoting women’s sport, Gilroy commended the league’s approach to television coverage and game scheduling. She noted the importance of dedicated promotion to elevate the visibility and appeal of women’s sports globally.
Gilroy observed, “Australia sets a prime example in promoting women’s sports, with a focus on showcasing the unique strengths and excitement of the AFLW. There is a valuable lesson to be learned in enhancing the promotion of women’s sports on a broader scale.”
