Silverware worth wait for Hayden

STILL GOING STRONG: Edel Hayden of Carlow

VETERAN Carlow footballer Edel Hayden finally got her hands on national silverware at Grant Heating St Brendan’s Park in Birr a fortnight ago.

Lining out at midfield, 37-year-old Hayden played a significant role in helping the Barrowsiders to secure the

Lidl National Football League Division 4 title with a 1-7 to 0-6 triumph over Limerick

“I think it was Rachel Sawyer (Carlow team-mate) was saying to me in the dressing room just before the match, I think her Mam was on the last team that won the Division 2 years ago.

“Since I started back in 2001, other than a Leinster final and making semi-finals, we haven’t got any silverware really,” Hayden said.

“It was unbelievable and even just for managers that have been in with us, and people that followed us even through the ups and downs.”

Debut

While she did make her senior debut all of 23 years ago, there have been periods when Hayden was away from the inter-county game.

This was down to a combination of long-term injuries and the fact that she is also the mother of four children.

“I’ve four kids. Dylan and Harper, and then the younger two, Dáire and Ellie, they have autism.

“I’ve had to give up work and stay at home.

“Try and do what I can to get them where they need to be as well.”

She is hopeful their NFL Division 4 triumph can be the springboard to greater things.

As well as defending their Leinster Junior Football Championship title in the coming weeks, Carlow hope to progress in the TG4 All-Ireland Junior Football Championship.

Semi-finalists in each of the past three seasons, Carlow believe they are more than capable of making it to Croke Park for the showpiece decider on August 4.

“It’s going to be so competitive, but we’re looking forward to the challenge,” Hayden said.