Ireland's Soccer Star, Savannah McCarthy Announced As Sportswoman Of The Month For April

Listowel native, Savannah McCarthy has been named The Irish Times / Irish Sports Council 'Sportswoman of the Month' for April. Savannah is a member of the Irish Under-19 football team that qualified for the UEFA European Women's Championships which is due to take place in Norway from 15th - 27th July, 2014.

This is Ireland's first time to ever reach the European Ladies Football Championships. Savannah played a key role in helping her team qualify with 1-0 win over Turkey. Although host country Holland took the top spot on goal difference due to a 4-1 victory over Austria in the other group game, Ireland will go to the finals in Norway as the best runners-up. Last year, Savannah, was also named the FAI Under-17 International Women's Player of the Year at last year's FAI International Football awards.

Speaking about Savannah's nomination, Dave O'Connell, manager said: "She's an amazing young girl, with an amazing story. She has great leadership skills, a fantastic personality. She's a toughie on the pitch, and a lady of the park - a good mix."

Established in 2004, the Sportswoman of the Year Awards recognise the abilities and achievements of women in Irish sports. The awards run over a 12-month period, with the judges selecting a winner each month for her ability to excel at sport. The overall Sportswoman of the Year is selected from the monthly winners, and announced in December.
The accolade of winning The Irish Times/Irish Sports Council 'Sportswoman of the Month' means Savannah will be the fifth of 12 sportswomen to be in the running for the prestigious title of 'Sportswoman of the Year' at an awards ceremony in December 2014.