Mags is a ‘woman on a mission’
By Maisie Mould
“You don’t really get women chairs. Most things I go to, I’m the only woman there.”
Those were the words of Mags Cronin who is the first chairwoman of Avondale United FC, and one of the first in Ireland.
A self-described “woman on a mission”, she stepped into the role just 6 months ago.
Mags started in Avondale as a coach for the under 15s boys. Having no previous experience in football, she agreed under the condition that other mums joined too.
“The club called us the ‘super-mums’! They encouraged us, and supported us in a way that we could just go and do it.”
Even with such strong support behind her, it hasn’t all been a walk in the park: “The boys don’t listen as much to a mum. It can be difficult sometimes.”
Her new position comes alongside a wave of changes initiated by the FAI. Niamh O’Mahony, former director of Cork City FC, officially became a board member of the FAI in 2023, which as of February has exceeded Government gender balance requirements.
Mags was encouraged by the club to join the committee in June last year, and was asked three months later to become chairwoman – a rare event for a typically male-dominated sphere.
“I was really touched that they had faith in me.”
So far in her short time as chair, Mags has emphasised inclusivity within the club.
“Since I started, there are more mums coaching. We are empowering them.”
Next year, Avondale is hoping to see its first ever senior girls team, a great source of pride for everyone there.
The club also strives to include children with additional needs on the teams. Mags, whose son plays for Avondale and has autism, said: “It’s soccer for all. Whatever level the child comes in at there’s a level there for him or her.”
Numbers have skyrocketed since the pandemic, with over 400 children enlisted across 41 squads.
“The kids want to play ball. That’s the future. We will keep putting on teams as long as the girls and boys want to play.”
However this has shed light on the club’s sore lack of facilities. “There are teenage girls having to change their top at the side of the pitch.”
Work has begun on a new set of changing rooms, but more financial support is needed to continue. The club receives little help from Government funding, and so are turning to the community. “It’s a battle. We really do need the help.”
There will be a Kube fundraising event this Saturday 25 May (based on the ITV gameshow of the same name) in the hope of making enough money to cover the cost.
Mags encourages everyone in the Avondale community areas to attend: “Support your community. Support the kids in your community.”
Tickets are available online via the Avondale United FC website.