This morning, we spoke with Laura Heffernan, Head Coach at DLR Waves, about the opportunities that need to be created and grasped for Women to advance in the world of coaching. This afternoon, her DLR Waves Club did just that with the news that former Republic of Ireland international Rianna Jarrett has been appointed as her Senior Assistant Coach.
That is the kind of impact which we are delighted to report on.
DLR Waves is a Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown women’s football club competing in the League of Ireland SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division.
Jarrett brings an exceptional pedigree to the role. A prolific forward for her hometown club, Wexford Youths, she scored 111 goals in 139 appearances, helping the team secure four League of Ireland titles and three FAI Cups.
Her on-field excellence also earned her the Women’s National League Player of the Season award in both 2018 and 2019. In addition to her club achievements, Jarrett has represented the Republic of Ireland at the senior level. She is currently coaching with the Ireland U16 international squad, further demonstrating her commitment to developing the next generation of talent.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rianna to DLR Waves,” said Laura Heffernan, First-Team Manager.
“Her playing career speaks for itself, but it’s her leadership, knowledge, and passion for youth development that make her an outstanding addition to our coaching staff. Rianna’s experience at the elite level—both as a player and a coach—will be invaluable as we continue to grow as a club.”
“I’m honoured to join DLR Waves at such an exciting time for the club,” said Jarrett. There’s a real energy here—a new wave of talent coming through—and I’m passionate about playing my part in nurturing the next generation of female footballers in Ireland. The ambition here is clear at every level, and I’m excited to support Laura, work closely with the players, and help drive the club forward as we work towards our long-term goal of reaching the Champions League.”
DLR Waves continue to build on strong foundations within the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown community. Over 60% of the players originate from local community clubs, a testament to the strength of the club’s grassroots partnerships.
With a dedicated U15 development academy, and League of Ireland teams at U17, U19 and Senior level, the club maintains a clear and ambitious pathway for developing elite female Irish footballers.
Supported by eight community clubs, DLR Waves remain deeply rooted in the local area. Their home ground, UCD Bowl in Belfield, kindly provided by UCD Sports and Fitness, reflects their long-standing connection to UCD and their history as the former UCD Waves. The team trains at a newly developed 4G facility in Cherrywood, supplied by DLR County Council.
Image Credit: DLR Waves / Dan Sheridan, Inpho
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