Name: Larissa Muldoon
Age: 23
Club: Cardiff Met and Bristol
Position: Scrumhalf
Q: Who is the best player you have ever played with or against?
That would be Alison Miller, a privilege to play alongside, a true friend π
Q: What has been the biggest support to your rugby career?
My friends and family, obviously mum and dad and my sister, uncles and aunties, and coming to the games and my family back home have been so supportive. They put that extra smile on my face and make it that bit more worthwhile. They are coming out to France and I cannot wait to see them all!
Q: Combining two professions as both an Irish Rugby player and a school teacher, how difficult is it for you to manage the two in your life?
I am working full time in a primary school in a specialised behavioural unit for children. The only way to do it all is Time Management and prioritising. We have our training/gym sessions in the morning, then again in the afternoon. So I do my gym session in the morning start work at 830am and finish around 4 then I have some dinner and go training again.
Training has stepped up since April, we have all been on our S&C programmes which has been tough but challenging. It can be really tough but my friends and family keep me grounded π
Q: What were some of the things that kept you busy when you werenβt on the pitch or weight room?
When we actually have time to do anything I like to chill out, listen to music, I go to the beach a lot, and socialise with friends (coffee dates).
Q: Whats your favourite item of clothing?
Probably my Billabong Zippy at the moment.
Q: When you travel with the team, who has been the best roommate and why?
Emmmm thats an interesting one, probably Lynn Cantwell in 013 when we travelled to wales she forgot to wash her No1s then we got βAβ jerseys and we had to sew them to fit us and lynn helped me to sew my jersey up and that was the jersey we won the grand slam in.
Myself and ALi Miller are never roomies due to the fact we are not very good at conforming to rules and regulations and abiding by schedules. We are the free spirits of the Irish Womens team π
Q: What part of your game have you most improved over the years and what part still could use some work?
Probably direction and managing players, being a scrum half you have to direct and manage the players effectively. Having the ability to bring people into the game using their specific strengths and abilities.
Q: Favourite food?
Steak medium to rare
Q: Favourite band or musician?
Mumford and sons, Beyonce, Bon Jovi.
Q: What is your nick name?
Larry
Q: One word to describe you?
Adventurous π
Q: What role does tech now play in sport
We have heart rate monitors, I know coming into the world cup we will have apple tech, TPE, we can access video analysis online, we can write comments on our own individual performance, being an exile this is very handy.
Q: What is the best piece of advice you ever got?
When I was U16 I was playing county Gaelic for Donegal the coach was Kenny Griffin and he said you are not fit you need to get out on the pitch and run. Through this feedback I chose to use positively and in the end it was Gaelic Football that helped me to cross over into the game of rugby as the skill sets are similar in many ways.
Q: You obviously are all over Twitter and have loads of followers. What do you like about it?
I think its great way to market the women’s game and promote a positive image of women’s rugby. It is an amazing tool for enabling young and upcoming athletes to learn about the game, and a great forum for people to keep up to date with the women’s rugby world ie games, fixtures, results. The use of twitter can also provide positive role models for young people.
Q: What is the best thing about playing?
There is no greater honour than playing for your Country and every time I put on the green jersey I genuinely have to pinch myself!!! I never thought in a million years I would be in a Women’s World Cup at the age of 23 representing Ireland, its a dream come true!!
For me personally the best thing is being part of such a tight family. It is crazy to think how much time we actually all spend together, every weekend and most week days too. But it is all worth it, as we all know exactly what we want to do and that is win a WORLD CUP. I have met some amazing people and made some true friendships through playing with Ireland, we are one big family!
Q: What other sports have you played?
Gaelic football, lifeguarding club, swimming, surfing.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who is interested in joining a team?
I would say go to your local club, firstly play a bit of touch or tag rugby and if you enjoy playing then definitely sign up! Give it a go, and spread the word I know local clubs are always seeking out new players! It is such a great social setting you will meet new people and learn so much. Rugby can open many avenues for people, whether it is travelling, touring, coaching etc.
Q: What kind of music do you listen to before a game?
I have a playlist I like to listen to before most games which has a few up beat motivational songs here is a few- Linkin Park, Fort Minor, Eminem, 50 Cent, Papa roach, Drake, Foo Fighters etc π
