The Ireland Women's World Cup squad is heading for Australia and New Zealand, after a major sendoff in Dublin city centre.
The squad, named by manager Vera Pauw yesterday, included a few surprises.
They had a special green carpet party at Dublin's Mansion House on Wednesday – and Newstalk reporter Henry McKean was there talking to friends, family and fans of the Girls in Green.
One young footballer, Chelsea Mulligan, told Henry for The Pat Kenny Show what it means to her.
"I'm so proud of the women and how far they've got in this journey, it's just amazing," she said.
"I would love to go as far as I can to get like them," she added.
11-year-old Kayla from Longford said: "I'm really proud of the Irish women's soccer team that they're going over to Australia".
Kayla said she would "definitely" make the trek to Australia if she could.
#TeamIreland being greeted by Ireland’s next generation at a special send off party before the @FIFAWWC Aus/NZ with @SkyIreland & @offtheball. We got a backstage pass on the green carpet at @MansionHouseDub. Join us @PatKennyNT @FAIWomen Ivan Yates. @NewstalkFM #COYGIG @verapauw pic.twitter.com/QtWiDdOYsG
— Henry McKean (@HenryMcKean) June 29, 2023
Chloe and her friend Ciara have been playing football since they were small.
"We were just saying we haven't had role models like themselves, even now in our 20s, reconnecting with the game," Chloe said.
"It's just been incredible to have role models, no matter what age you are it's always going to be inspiring".
Vera Pauw being greeted by Ireland’s next generation at a special send off party before the @FIFAWWC Aus/NZ with @SkyIreland & @offtheball. We got a backstage pass on the green carpet at @MansionHouseDub. Join us @PatKennyNT @FAIWomen with Ivan Yates. @NewstalkFM #COYGIG pic.twitter.com/9vUDmtzS3S
— Henry McKean (@HenryMcKean) June 29, 2023
Ciara said the team’s success has given her fresh impetus.
"We're 24 and it means just as much to us as it does the younger kids," she said.
"We didn't necessarily have this when we were younger - we both play football again now.
"We got into football and all, so it's really nice".
Republic of Ireland players (from left) Abbie Larkin, Kyra Carusa and Izzy Atkinson. Picture by: Stephen McCarthy/SportsfileBristol city defender Chloe Mustaki is one of the lucky 23 to make the World Cup squad. Her mother, Deirdre O'Driscoll, said qualification is a full circle moment.
"I started out 20 years ago ferrying Chloe and her other team mates back and forth around the country to games," she said.
"It's just incredible that it has come to this: all the hard work, all the perseverance, it's just brilliant for the team and for Ireland.
"Vera [Pauw] has become the Jackie Charlton of Irish soccer.
"It's just all blended and come together, it's so exciting.
"It was very tense for the young women involved... you never knew until the last minute.
"There were some folks disappointed, and we're all thinking of them at the moment but hopefully other opportunities will come along in the future.
"This is just the first World Cup we're in, but it won't be the last".
Republic of Ireland manager Vera Pauw and her players at an event to celebrate the team before they travel to Australia. Picture by: Stephen McCarthy/SportsfileManager Vera Pauw said the girls deserve it.
"It's a magic moment and it turns our feelings into celebration. These girls deserve celebration," she said.
