Hannah Healy on the rise after big Shels breakthrough

Hannah Healy didn't have to look too far for inspiration when she was growing up in Balbriggan.

The north Co Dublin town has produced senior Republic of Ireland internationals Sonya Hughes, Diane Caldwell and Emily Whelan, with Healy well on track to follow in their footsteps.

The Shelbourne midfielder is just 15 years old but she's had a breakthrough season having being elevated to the first team by Noel King. Now, Healy is dreaming of capping a fine campaign with glory in the Sports Direct FAI Cup final when the Reds square up to Ciaran Kilduff's Athlone Town.

"It is exciting but I'm also nervous obviously because it is the biggest game I have ever played in," said Healy, who began her playing days with Glebe North before moving to Bohemians and then Shels.

"It is good to be around the team, I didn't think I would be here yet.

"I started three league games and then the cup semi-final [which she scored in against Shamrock Rovers] and I've come on at the end of most games. I've played a decent amount. It is a big step up from the underage teams."

Healy benefiting from the Fingal County Council football transition year for girls, a new FAI programme that was launched this year after the successful introduction of the boys course in 2016.

A familiar face is there to guide her - Shelbourne team-mate Megan Smyth-Lynch is one of the tutors.

"It is weird, but you get used to it," Healy remarked. "I had her coaching me for Ireland under-16s as well, so I am used to having her coach me and she helps me on the pitch as well. It's a good help to have her in the team and also in the school.

"We're playing football and in the gym every day. We're coaching schools on a Wednesday, so it is good for the tactical awareness and the technical side