On top of her game: Rena Buckley

BEFORE captaining Cork ladies’ football team to all-Ireland victory last month, Rena Buckley had to get over a disappointment. Just a few weeks earlier she had been on the Cork camogie team that had lost out to Wexford in Croke Park.

“Mentally, it took a week or so to get over the disappointment of the camogie.

“You have to move on and when I met up with the [football] gang — who were looking forward to the next match — what was in the past was in the past,” says the 25-year-old.

“Thankfully we got a win in the football and that was fantastic. They’re a lovely bunch of girls and it was a privilege to be their captain.”

Rena’s planning to open up a physiotherapy practice alongside another physiotherapist in Macroom in January. She’s single and lives in the family home at Berrings. Her twin sister, Mary, plays club camogie and football and their brother, Jerry, 28, is doing a PhD in maths in Barcelona.

What shape are you in?

I’m in relatively good shape. We played a county final with Donoughmore four weeks ago. I haven’t done much training since then, but I’ll get back into it soon. In the run-up to Christmas I’ll do some running and weights twice a week.

Do you have any health concerns?

I had problems with my digestive system during the year — ulcerative colitis — but that’s under control now. It was mild enough.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

I always have a good breakfast — porridge, some fruit, flaxseeds and a pint of water. That’s my healthiest meal of the day.

What would keep you awake at night?

I’m a good sleeper. Something bothering me at work might keep me awake though.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

Desserts and chocolate.

How do you relax?

By exercising. That’s when I’m carefree.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

I’m not very interested in celebrities. I wouldn’t mind having Katie Taylor and Sonia O’Sullivan over. And Seanie O’Brien because he’s great craic.

What’s your favourite smell?

The smell of a turf fire because it reminds me of home.

What would you change about your appearance?

I try not to get too obsessed about appearance. I’d like to be an inch or two taller.

When did you last cry?

In 2010 our club in Inniscarra got to the county final, which was a big thing. I got injured in the semi-final and knew I wouldn’t be able to play — I was disgusted.

What trait do you least like in others?

Dishonesty — being two faced. You want people to be straight up.

What trait do you least like in yourself?

I wish I was more optimistic. Sometimes I can be a bit pessimistic about things.

Do you pray?

Yes, I’m a regular Massgoer. I enjoy Mass, being alone and thinking.

What would cheer up your day?

An act of kindness or a smile from a friend.