Over the next few weeks, in conjunction with Sport Ireland's new #WomenInSportIRE initiative, we will be profiling numerous female coaches, officials & referees in GAA Handball. First up is Kingscourt HC's Catherine Finnegan.
The Finnegan name is steeped in Handball tradition, with father Kit and brother Michael making names for themselves on the court. But Catherine, an accountant by trade is making her mark on the administration side of Handball.
What is your earliest memory of Handball?
"I suppose watching Dad play and him coaching Michael. Every weekend growing up revolved around handball in some way, travelling the country so I suppose it was in the genes really. I have always helped out with anything going on in our Club, as Secretary, helping to run tournaments and now more recently as Ulster Administrator."
Current Role - Ulster Administrator
Catherine's role as Ulster Administrator is a significant one, not only in the sense that with it brings the responsibility to coordinate all Ulster fixtures annually across the codes, but also because she is the first female to undertaken such a role in any of the four provinces.
"I wasn't aware of that. I was approached by the Ulster Council to consider the role and I decided to give it a go, being female didn't really come in to it. But I suppose because I've grown up around handball I don't focus on the male/female split of roles etc, its all just handball. If it was to open up doors and encourage other females to take up similar roles then that would be great."
Your opinion on the current state of female involvement in Handball?
I think it is stronger than it has ever been, and the competition in our senior ranks is brilliant. The work put in by the players is outstanding and has brought the game to a higher level.
Do you believe there are any barriers to more females getting involved in similar roles? Is there anything you would like to see more of to encourage increased female involvement?
I personally don't see any barriers. If you want to become involved Clubs, Counties and Provinces are more than happy to accept any help they can get because most Clubs etc. are stretched for volunteers particularly on the administration side. It would be great to see more females getting involved in whatever way they can.