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Roche was speaking at the launch of the Aviva Health FAI Primary School 5s in Lucan yesterday. INPHO/Donall Farmer

Ladies first as Ireland's top female coaches get chance to shine, says Stephanie Roche

International manager Sue Ronan and Peamount United boss Eileen Gleeson are taking their Pro Licence at the moment.

IRELAND’S TOP FEMALE coaches are pointing the way forward for the women’s game.

International manager Sue Ronan and Peamount United boss Eileen Gleeson are set to take UEFA’s top coaching qualification this year, the Pro Licence.

UEFA regulations stipulate that a country can only hold one course every two years and competition for the 17 places was fierce.

“It just shows how big women’s football is getting,” said Peamount and Ireland striker Stephanie Roche who has worked closely with both women.

“I think Eileen is one of the best coaches around, male or female, and it’s great that she’s getting the opportunity to do it.

“Obviously with Sue being the senior Irish manager, it’s great that she’ll get that experience and hopefully bring it on to us and give us the experience we need to get better and better.”

Roche conceded that if Ronan and Gleeson continue to make waves in women’s football, there is a danger that they may be poached by clubs abroad.

“Obviously the two of them are good coaches and they’re going in the right direction to get all their badges.

“It’s only natural that other teams might come after them if they’re doing well over here.

“If Sue is doing well with the international team, she might get asked to go on to something bigger and better.

“More power to them if they do.”

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