Zara Foley
Age: 15Club: Lakewood Athletic FC
Soccer Profile: Ballincollig Community School. CWSSL Gaynor U14 & U16. FAI Schools Munster and Ireland. U16 & U17 Ireland International
How did you become interested in soccer?
My older brother was already playing and we’d play ball in the garden and whenever there were games on the TV I was interested. Eventually I wanted to be part of a proper team myself and so I joined the Lakewood girls Academy when I was about 8 or 9.
What sports icons have influenced you the most?
When I think about someone who always had a good approach and strong self belief, I know it’s a long time ago but it would probably be Mohammad Ali. In soccer I like Alex Morgan who plays for the USA and I’d also be a fan of Messi.
What are you most looking forward to traveling with the Senior International Squad?
Hopefully I’ll learn a lot and improve my game, training with the older girls. I don’t know if it will happen but if I got a run out in a senior game against Portugal, that would really be unbelievable but I’d also be a little bit nervous.
What does it mean to you to represent Ireland?
I suppose when you start any sport, you might sometimes wonder what it would be like to play for your country but in reality you think that it is only a dream. To be asked to join the Irish squad and the finally to put on the Green jersey and play for your country, I don’t really know how to put it in words except maybe that it’s always a really special feeling. It is also one where I feel an added responsibility, to do well for our country.
What is your favourite thing about playing soccer?
I enjoy playing with my friends, there’s no denying it’s always a great feeling to score a goal. Also it’s just as well I’m from Ireland because I really enjoy training and playing in the rain!
Read about Lakewood player Eabha O’Mahony who has also been included in the squad
Portgual v Ireland
18 Jan 2018 17:00
Portgual v Ireland
22 Jan 2018 15:00
