Fresh from winning a women’s Inter-provincial title, Leinster winger Eimear Corri has her goals firmly set in her mind.
“It’d be a dream of mine to represent my country in a World Cup and Six Nations.”
Only 21 years old, Corri is already very experienced at provincial level. She represented the Leinster U-18 squad from 2012-2016, winning 3 Inter-provincial titles, and was named captain in 2016.
Corri had quite a noteworthy coach in Portlaoise RFC where she began her rugby career in Ireland legend Alison Miller, who has had a big influence on Corri’s playing style.
“She was actually my first rugby coach in Portlaoise RFC, and it’s very difficult to be anything other than in awe of her achievements and also the tips and advice she has to offer.”
Another interesting influence on Corri’s game is Ireland’s stalwart full-back. “Rob Kearney, and just the way Leinster have him playing tactically would influence me a lot too. I’d try to get into good positions much like he does and be there on the end of the ball at crucial times.”
A common trend in rugby these days is for talented wingers to try make it as a centre. Two of the Ireland men’s team’s latest superstars, Jordan Larmour, and Jacob Stockdale, are two examples.
“I’m definitely one of those wingers that has centre notions. Having played centre for both Blackrock College RFC and DCU, I love being closer to the ball and the involvement in devising calls, and running moves to try beat the defence.”
“I think the wing has a lot to offer, and when you break the position down, is an equally important player on the pitch, and can be involved as much as the individual player decides. I think centre would be my preferred position, but I suppose one position out isn’t too bad either.”
The recent addition of Sevens to the Olympics is also a lure. The likes of New Zealand’s Portia Woodman play both codes, and excel, but Corri knows her preferences, after experiencing the shortened code with Ireland U-18, and after winning All-Ireland Sevens with DCU in 2017 and 2018.
“Obviously like any athlete, the Olympics are a dream but I prefer the 15s game. I believe that 15s requires more skill to find gaps that seem non existent with a wall of 15 lining up in front of you.”
Corri will represent DCU RFC this year again, in both codes.
Joseph O’Gorman.
Image Credit: Piaras Ó Mídeach/Sportsfile.