Name: Bridget McCarthy
Code/Team: Camogie
Occupation: Middle School Teachers Assistant
Field position: Center Back
How long have you played with the Gaels? I have been playing with the Gaels since June 2013, so I’m just starting my 7th year.
When did you start playing hurling/camogie/football? I just finished my junior year in college when I started playing Camogie. I registered with the DC Gaels, went to one practice, then the next day I went to live in Dublin for 3 months and trained with the Good Counsel GAA and Camogie Club. I was very fortunate to learn how to play camogie from girls that have been playing their whole lives. I was very much “thrown into the fire” but it was such a great experience. After leaving Dublin in August, I played in the Mid-Atlantic Division finals with DC Gaels and have been playing with them ever since.
What’s your favorite thing about Gaelic games? I love that I am able to play a sport that is such an integral part of my Irish heritage. I love that the nature of the Gaelic games is one of intense competition but is also a strong social club at the same time. I also love the community aspect of the GAA, I know that basically no matter what city I go to there is a club and an instant group of friends.
Best trainer on the squad: I’ll have to give a shout out to my sister, Molly, who just joined the club last June. She’s basically always been my personal trainer.
Most skillful player: Sophie Freidl is an amazing forward player, I love going head to head with her. She’s definitely made me a better player.
Biggest joker: Jill seems to have an endless supply of puns.
Odd item in your GAA kit bag: I was the Ladies Gaelic Football goalie for a few years back and along the way I lost one of my goalie gloves. I still have the other one in my bag and I haven’t been the goalie for 3 years.
Ambition for the 2020 season: I would love to be able to have our code grow to hold 2 full teams: a junior and an intermediate team. May have to wait until next year though.
If you could choose one player to join your squad, who would it be? I'm not sure, I like to work with the players I have on my team to make them the best they can be, that way I don’t need to wish.
Sporting idol: Rosemary, she's been playing for DC Gaels camogie for, I think, 20 years and is still playing like a boss! I hope I’m able to do that as I get older.
Best sporting advice you’ve received: When I started playing, I had a hard time aiming on my strikes and I was told to point foot, like in soccer. Worked like a charm! I tell that to every new player I coach.
Why should someone join the Gaels: If you are an athlete and want to be part of a club that will satisfy your competitive spirit while also fulfilling your social wants, the DC Gaels and the USGAA is the place for you. No experience needed, we’ll get you to be a fine Camog in no time!
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