Eimear Reddin is just 17 years old and at present is 1000’s of feet in the air flying to the United States. Having recently received her Leaving Cert results Eimear was already prepared for her quick exit to the States. Approximately two years ago this young lady set the ball in motion for the possibility of a Sports Scholarship to play soccer in America. The ball began to play and Eimear soon found herself having free reign of a number of American Universities. A decision had to be made and she choose the smaller campus of Averett University, Virginia. The scholarship which Eimear is on is a four year one. This will see her study for her degree in Athletic Training.
Eimear is the daughter of Anne Marie McColgan and Don Reddin, both from the Muff area. Eimear grew up in and around the village.
I feel very fortunate to have known Eimear since she was a little girl. Herself and my youngest son set out on their schooling life together. At just four years of age they were both in the Junior Infants class of Scoil Naomh Brid here in Muff. From there they became childhood friends and have remained such into young adulthood.
I recall going along to the Finn Valley athletic grounds when Eimear was still in primary school and watching her running long distance. I knew even then that she was destined to be an athletic or sports person of some sort. She was right at home there on the running track. A young sportstar was in the making.
Eimear began playing soccer shortly after this and after a while with QPS. She then moved to Illies as QPS had no ladies squad. Eimear remained with Illies until her departure for America. She also played for a number of years in the Inishowen team.
I’ve watched this young lady grow up from a cute little girl into a very attractive, confident young lady. I was fortunate to work alongside her prior to this years Leaving Cert. During this time I saw just how determined and focused she really was to succeed. Not every 17 year old has a set goal in place prior to sitting these exams. But Eimear had just that.
As Eimear travels to America today, it is as a direct result of self-determination and hard work. The hard work to date has certainly paid off for this young lady. I don’t doubt that from today a new round of hard work and self-determination will take her through the next four years in America.
Leaving home at such a young age is never easy, but leaving to go and follow your dream makes it that little bit easier. I only hope that America realises what a little treasure it is about to possess.
So Eimear here’s wishing you every success as you study and play football in America. Here’s wishing you every success as you carve this new pathway in life for yourself. And here’s wishing you every success in living your dream over the next four years.
Stay strong young lady, stay focused and of course, do stay in touch.
GMcC