It wasn’t to be for the Republic of Ireland last night but there is a big day in store for Northern Ireland who did secure their place in the Final Qualifier.

Ian Barraclough’s side beat Bosnia Herzegovina to set up a massive tie at Windsor Park on the evening of November 12th.

That they will face Slovakia rather than their nearest neighbours was down to the width of a post last night but at least there is still an Irish interest in the tournament and having Northern Ireland play in the Euros in Dublin would certainly create a buzz.

The first chance to gather and celebrate the achievement will be this evening when a virtual event to celebrate women and girls who are changing the game for women’s sport throughout Northern Ireland is to take place ahead of International Day of the Girl.

Aimed at anyone who is interested in sport, the event will allow attendees to learn from experts and sportswomen who are at the top of their game.

Those attending will also have the chance to have their questions on topics as diverse as the best approach to post-training recovery to dealing with body-issues answered.

The event is presented by Electric Ireland, the sponsor for women’s and girls’ football at every level across Northern Ireland.

“This event really is perfect for anyone interested in sport no matter what background,” said Anne Smyth, Electric Ireland Sponsorship Lead in Northern Ireland.

“They will get ideas for pre-match recipes, an insight into how their mental wellbeing can affect their performance and the chance to ask five key sportswomen questions on how they have reached their goals and some of the challenges they have faced along the way.”

“We are very excited for the event as it will allow us to take the Game Changers movement a step further to bring together all women and girls in Northern Ireland who are interested in sport and celebrate their achievements.”

Running Order

Friday 9th 4pm: Cooking Demo from Tony O’Neill and Jen Curran, who own Tony & Jen’s cafe on Belfast’s Lisburn Road
Friday 9th 4.30pm: Sports Nutrition Seminar & Q&A with Jane McClenaghan from Vital Nutrition
Friday 9th 5pm: Q&A with some of the leading NI Female Sports stars; International Hockey player Katie Mullan, NI Senior Women’s Team player Simone Magill, International Rugby player Claire McLaughlin, former Tyrone ladies football Captain and WGPA’s Gemma Begley and the first NI woman to scale Everest Hannah Shields.
Fri 9th 6pm: Performance Psychology Session & Q&A with Kelley Faye Performance Psychologist who has worked with Ulster Rugby, British Para Snow Sports and Team Ireland to name but a few.