Valerie Mulcahy has left an indelible mark on the world of Irish football. Known for her prowess as a ladies’ Gaelic footballer, she has achieved remarkable success throughout her career.
Mulcahy’s journey began when she joined the Cork County ladies’ football team in 2004. Over the next decade, she became an integral part of the team’s success, playing a pivotal role in securing numerous titles. Alongside fellow stars Rena Buckley, Nollaig Cleary, Briege Corkery, Juliet Murphy, Mary O’Connor, and Angela Walsh, Mulcahy helped Cork win an impressive ten All-Ireland titles, ten Munster titles, and nine Ladies’ National Football League titles.
Mulcahy consistently showcased her scoring abilities in the All-Ireland finals. From 2005 to 2015, she played in ten finals, scoring an impressive 7–38. With the exception of 2006, she found the back of the net in every final she played. Mulcahy’s standout performances earned her the title of top scorer in the All-Ireland finals in 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013, and 2015.
Beyond her achievements in Gaelic football, Mulcahy also made her mark in women’s association football. In 2003, she represented Ireland at the prestigious Summer Universiade. During the inaugural 2011–12 Women’s National League season, Mulcahy played for Cork Women’s F.C., where she scored the winning goal in their first league victory.
Mulcahy’s impact extends beyond the field. In 2015, she played a pivotal role in launching the Women’s Gaelic Players’ Association, advocating for the rights and welfare of female athletes.
