Emma ​Mitchell Represents Club On Minor Team

Emma Mitchell

Emma Mitchell was a key member of the Galway Minor GAA team. Daughter of Mairead and John – the Kilclooney native had to train hard while combining studying in Ardscoil Mhuire.
 
She began playing GAA when she was six years old. A stalwart centre back she was extremely excited to play for the maroon and white of Galway and felt very privileged to represent the Ballinasloe GAA Club on the squad.
 
As we all know now this year the Galway minors were beaten by Cork in the All-Ireland final. However, the game wasn’t played in Croke park but instead in Macdonagh Park, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary.

She doesn’t feel like she missed out by not playing in Croker; she enjoyed Nenagh. “I preferred the match being in Nenagh as there was a great atmosphere and I was able to meet all my friends and family after the game.”
 
Preparation is key and the team had their normal routine. They trained three times a week. On the Monday before the match, they had a players meeting. Then they treated the match like any other game. They got on the bus together which helped relax them.
 
Unfortunately for Emma she won’t be able to play on the minor team next year, but she has confidence that with the talent coming through that Galway can win an All-Ireland title. She has been inspired by all amazing club and county players who have pushed her on to be the best player she can be.
 
Unsurprisingly the coach she learned the most from would be her father, John Mitchell. He began coaching her at under 10 level and still continues to coach her now.
 
“I think all girls should try GAA as it has given me friends for life that will always be there for me“. states Emma.
 
She thanked all associated with Ballinasloe GAA Club and the local community for the support they have given her and for coming out to matches to cheer on the team. However, she concludes by “thanking her mam Mairead Mitchell for all the long hard nights for taking her to training”