Andrea is very much a crucial part of the Clann Eireann success story

Before what has been described as a coaching revolution, female strength and conditioning experts could have been described as being few and far between, but Andrea has joined a growing number of women who are pushing out the barriers.

Clann Eireann this season have been re-vitalised, as they look forward to a titanic struggle against runaway Donegal champions Bundoran on Sunday. The Lurgan men will be content in the knowledge that they are as well prepared as any team which has represented the club.

Andrea enjoys her coaching role with a passion, she said, “I was delighted when Kieran (Robinson) asked me to get involved with Clann Eireann. We had worked together at other clubs in the past, in my younger days having followed Glenavon I got the chance to watch their training methods. I was involved with the gaelic side of things with St. Paul’s and developed an interest in coaching.”

The strength and conditioning coach, who comes from a swimming background, cycles for Clann Eireann and she believes that the side will be in prime condition to gave a good account of themselves on Sunday.

“All of the players have dedicated themselves well this season and are reaping the awards,” added Andrea. “We set out our aims and objectives at the start of the season which were realised as the year progressed.”

Andrea is currently employed by the collective body which is Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Councils as a specialist fitness consultant with a primary role of organising general practitioner referrals.

Andrea is part of Clann Eireann’s successful management team of Kieran Robinson, Rory Lavery, Declan McCorry, Gary Lavery, Sean McSherry and physio Fiona Gribbon - all of whom according to the Lurgan clubs Strength and Conditioning Coach ‘are invaluable.’

“It has been fantastic to have been part of a great year at Clann Eireann, considering the effort the players and management put in there is no doubt that further success can be forthcoming. I enjoy the coaching side of things particularly in gaelic games, and have been privileged to have been involved with such a dedicated group,” she concluded.