*Photo by Arthur Ellis || Caoimhe Lally, Bunratty Co. Clare, graduated from University of Limerick with a Bachelor of Business Studies
NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS native Caoimhe Lally has graduated from the University of Limerick after a standout year which saw her captain the Purcell Cup-winning team and help Clare claim Division 1B league honours.
Caoimhe was conferred with a Bachelor of Business Studies this week as part of UL’s autumn graduation ceremonies, joining more than 3,000 students graduating from the university.
Her four years at UL culminated in an All-Ireland final victory with the university’s camogie team, with Caoimhe describing the achievement as a particularly memorable way to finish her time as a student.
“Camogie was such a big part of my UL journey so to finish it off with an All-Ireland final win was very, very sweet,” she said.
The Bunratty woman also enjoyed success at county level during the year, helping Clare win the Division 1B League title — her first senior county silverware — before the team went on to reach the All-Ireland quarter-finals.
For Caoimhe, sport has been an important part of her life from a young age.
Growing up, there were no under-six or under-eight camogie teams available to her, so she and a friend trained on the sidelines to stay involved in the game.
“I think it’s so important for girls to play sport. Whether it’s camogie, dance, tennis, whatever they want to play.”
“I played every sport under the sun – hip hop dancing, horse riding, rugby, but my parents are GAA heads through and through and it was definitely my first love.”
“My dad used to bring me out and I couldn’t hit the ball and it would usually end in tears, but he made me stick at it and thank god he did because I ended up falling in love with it and I’ve made the best friends out of it.”
Caoimhe said camogie also provided an important source of friendship and routine during difficult periods in her family life, including while both of her parents were battling cancer.
“Meeting the girls every single evening was the best thing I could have ever asked for,” she said.
“I think everyone goes through their own battles in life and playing sport is definitely one outlet that they should always, always have.”
She also praised UL for its support for women’s sport, highlighting the university’s five camogie teams and the opportunities available to female athletes.
“Everyone is equal, which I absolutely love,” she said.
UL Purcell Cup Team Manager Dave Deady said it had been a privilege to watch Caoimhe develop during her four years at the university.
“As our captain, Caoimhe led with heart, humour, and a fierce determination that inspired everyone around her,” he said.
“What I’ll remember most is the person behind the player, always willing to encourage a teammate and bring people together.”
Mr Deady also congratulated Caoimhe on her graduation, telling her: “You’ve earned every success that comes your way!”
Alongside her sporting achievements, Caoimhe majored in marketing at the Kemmy Business School and worked as marketing executive in her family’s business, Hotel Woodstock in Ennis, throughout her time at UL.
She also worked as a UL Student Social Media Officer, creating content for the university’s social media channels.
Caoimhe said her studies at UL helped prepare her for a career in marketing and communications.
“UL was definitely my top choice when I decided to study business because of how well known the Kemmy Business School is – it’s world renowned and it’s an amazing course,” she said.
Her next chapter will see her move to Dublin after securing a place on Ryanair’s two-year marketing graduate programme.
As she begins her professional career, Caoimhe hopes her sporting experience will encourage more girls to stay involved in sport.
“We had the highest attendance at the camogie finals this year and you see it with the women’s soccer and Irish Rugby filling stadiums – it’s amazing for young girls to look up to.”
“But we still need to keep pushing for equality and for young girls to keep going in sports. The opportunities and friendships that come from it can make such a difference.”
