A chance this week to speak with our double-Championship winning Manager Cathy Corr!
Congratulations Cathy on another fantastic season. Did that go as expected?
“Firstly, thank you for the congratulations. In many ways the season went as we expected, knowing the huge challenge ahead. No season is ever straightforward and there are always unexpected moments along the way, but with experience you learn to anticipate potential issues and be proactive in managing them. With the strength of the management team, the support around the club, and the players all pulling together, we were able to plan well and support one another through the tougher moments. That collective effort helped us make the journey as smooth as possible and ultimately achieve our goals.”
Have matches been more competitive this season than last?
“The level of competition has increased this season, and the players have had to raise their game. We spent a lot of time focusing on our strategy and making sure we played to our strengths. Going into a competition with teams you may not know too much about can always put you slightly on the back foot, so Jimmy and I dedicated a lot of time to researching opponents and preparing the team as best as we could. The players responded brilliantly to that challenge and the work we put in off the pitch translated well onto it.”
We’ll be accepting promotion and competing in the TVL Division One next season?
“In terms of promotion, yes, we absolutely intend to accept promotion, and we are very much looking forward to the challenge of competing in TVL Division One next season. It’s something we take seriously as a club and as a team, and we see it as an exciting opportunity to continue developing, growing, and testing ourselves at the next level.”
You made some changes to the squad towards the end of the calendar year, was that always the plan to strengthen at that point?
“As with any team at any level, changes to the squad are part of the natural progression of a season. It’s important to recognise that the competition becomes stronger as the season goes on, and maintaining depth within the squad is key to sustaining performance levels. Players will always come and go in football, but planning and strengthening when needed ensures we remain competitive through the second half of the season and beyond.”
Has there been one area of play that’s pleased you more than anything else this season?
“What has pleased me most this season has been the collective effort across the entire squad. From the goalkeeper through to the forwards, every player both new and established has played their part in helping the team achieve success again this year. One thing that has really stood out is the way the team responds when our backs are against the wall. The players step up, show the right attitude, and attack challenges head on. The atmosphere in the dressing room has also been fantastic. Creating an enjoyable environment with strong morale and team spirit has been a big factor in keeping everyone engaged and motivated throughout the season.”
Any one player that’s perhaps surprised you with their performances?
“We’ve had several players produce outstanding performances at different times during the season. However, with our awards night coming up soon, I think I’ll keep that one under wraps for now!”
There is still a cup competition live as well. What stage are we at with the CCL Cup and do we know our next opponents yet?
“We still have the Combined Counties Cup to look forward to. We’re heading into the second round where we will play CB Hounslow on the 19th (away), so we’re excited for that challenge and hopeful we can progress further in the competition.”
“I couldn’t be prouder of this squad. The way they have pulled together this season has been nothing short of fantastic. Winning the league back-to-back for the club is a tremendous achievement and something that makes myself and Jimmy, along with Alana, Meg, Maureen and (Matt) who has stepped in to support us extremely proud. I would also like to thank the entire management team for their hard work and dedication throughout the season, and of course the players for their commitment, focus and performances week in and week out.
Huge Well done to everyone involved I couldn’t be prouder.”
