By Conall Collier
Popular Sligo Rovers player Katie Melly is the sole member of the current squad who started in the club’s historic first game at senior level against Peamount Utd on Saturday 5th March 2022.
Since then, Katie has established herself as a key member of the team with wholehearted performances on a regular basis.
She recalled that memorable first outing in the Women’s National League, now the Women’s Premier Division, last week ahead of the team’s 100th competitive outing.
“We didn’t really know what to expect that day, but we knew it would be a tough game for us,, as Peamount had won the league in 2019 and 2020 and finished second in 2021,” explained Katie.
“They also had players of the calibre of Republic of Ireland internationals Áine O’Gorman and Stephanie Roche,, so it was probably one of the toughest starts we could have had, but it was great to have an opportunity to see the standard that we needed to achieve.
“The following week we had our first home game against DLR Waves,, and there was great support for us that day. Although we didn’t win,, we learntplenty and then got our first victory the following weekend against Cork City at Turner’s Cross.
“We have a bit more stability about us now, a bit more experience, even for the younger players, whereas for that first game against Peamount, it was a realal journey into the unknown for us,” she added.
It has been a memorable journey for the Melly family,, who are all avid supporters of the Bit O’Red,, and for Katie, who can remember going to the Showgrounds to watch her local team from the age of four or five.
Katie is proud to play for her local club at the highest level, but it has taken a lot of effort.
commitment and determination on behalf of her and her parents, Dessie and Marie, who used to drive her to training locally and then with Castlebar Celtic when she was recruited as a 16-year-old by the Mayo side.
“This season most of us know what to expect, and it has been all about learning and adapting, trying to improve with each game, and now, in our fourth season, we can have more confidence about ourselves,” she added.
“I missed a few games this season after I picked up an injury against Galway last April, but I’m glad to be back playing again.
“I ruptured ligaments in my ankle, but I’m able to play once the ankle is strapped up. Before each game, I’ll get it sorted properly at the end of the season.
“I’m playing more of a defensive role now, and I’m really enjoying it. I find that there is more time on the ball, and that allows for better decisions.
“We are very together as a squad; players like Emma Hansberry, Leah Kelly, and Sarah Kiernan – we have a good understanding now, and that’s helpful when the newer players are settling in.
“We got our first away win of the season against a few weeks ago, and our target is to pick up as many points as possible in the remaining games,” she concluded.