Lynn Granted a New Lease of Life in Wexford

The Women’s National League has thrown up a number of rookie stars but ten years after her last senior international appearance Lynn Grant will be looking to make an impact after her decade long battle with illness.

One of Ireland’s brightest young underage talents at the tail end of the Noel King era she represented Ireland at the World University Games in 2009 and featured in the World Cup Qualification campaign ahead of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup before being diagnosed with diabetes.

Lynn did play a couple of games in the initial Women’s National League during John Flood’s time at the club, but she really struggled physically to have any impact on the games and ultimately stepped away from the league.

Speaking on the Final Whistle Women’s National League podcast this week she talked about the experience of her illness at the time.

“I could go out to play a game and my sugars were super, but by half time my sugars would just be all over the place and I’d feel so sluggish around the pitch.

“When you get to that stage you just feel so exhausted. All you want to do is walk off the pitch. I remember a couple of times standing out on the pitch saying it’s not worth it, why am I here, what’s my Why?”

Changes in her treatment brought a revival and the opportunity to dip her toe back in the water. After a starring role last season at junior level with Forth Celtic she was initially concerned about whether she’d be able to step back up to the standard required.

“Before I went in I was nervous, no doubt. First two or three sessions were like ‘Oh My God’ but once I settled into pre-season I have no doubt that I still have it, for another couple of year, my strength is fine, my fitness is good and my football is coming back. I don’t have any concerns to be honest.”

Wexford Youth’s host champions Peamount Utd in their Women’s National League opener at home on March 26th which is projected to be available live on LOITV. Full streaming details to be confirmed.