Kerry fans anticipate 'biggest final yet' in All-Ireland Ladies Football Championship

Excitement is building in Kerry as the county's Ladies' Senior Football team prepares to face Galway in the All-Ireland final this Sunday. The anticipation is palpable, with supporters and former players gathering for a preview breakfast hosted by Kerry LGFA. This event not only looked ahead to the upcoming decider but also served as a celebration of the county's rich tradition in ladies' football.

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I think this is the biggest final yet. There’s a lot of noise and interest about it.

A significant part of the celebration involved honoring the 1986 Kerry team, which competed in the inaugural Ladies' All-Ireland Final held at Croke Park. Commemorative jerseys were also unveiled to mark the anniversary of that historic match. Kerry LGFA Chairperson Nora Fealey described the current final as the "biggest yet," noting the widespread interest and "noise" surrounding it. She highlighted the team's role as a "brilliant inspiration" for young girls, emphasizing the confidence they build and the future of ladies' football in Kerry.

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All the kids watching those girls, it’s really building their confidence. This team are a brilliant inspiration.

Marina Barry, a player from the 1986 final team, reflected on the game's remarkable growth over the past four decades. She recalled the "amazing accomplishment" of reaching Croke Park in 1986, a dream she had harbored since watching men's finals with her father. While the crowds were smaller then, the occasion held immense significance. Barry expressed astonishment at how much the game has expanded since the early days of trying to promote it, even playing before men's matches to gain visibility.

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Either way, I’m expecting a great battle on Sunday.

Barry praised the current platform available to female players, the increased media coverage, and the overall excitement for the upcoming final. She noted the progress from a time when players had to actively showcase their sport to the present day, where girls have the opportunity to perform at their best. The sentiment is one of immense pride and anticipation for what promises to be a fiercely contested final.

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It was an amazing accomplishment to finally get to Croke Park in '86.