Gemma O’Connor braced for another challenge

Camogie isn’t what it used to be for Cork’s Gemma O’Connor, but, then again, neither is life. In two weeks’ time, the eight-time All-Star winner will line out in her 11th All-Ireland final, with Galway waiting in the wings.

On Sunday, September 13, the Army Corporal will enter the dressing room in Croke Park and veer toward the third locker on the left. To her right will sit goalkeeper Aoife Murray. It’s not superstition, “just automatic” says O’Connor, who put down one of her toughest seasons yet in 13 years playng.

“From a personal point of view, it’s been the hardest, given my mam is undergoing treatment for cancer, so some days you’re not up for going training, but Paudie’s (Murray) been so good. I suppose camogie was always my priority, but priorities change.