Hennessy signs for Shamrock Rovers

Loughnavalley's Jessica Hennessy has joined Shamrocks Rovers from Athlone Town.

The former Westmeath footballer was one of Athlone Town's standout performers last season - a season in which they finished second in the Women's National League (WNL) behind winners Shelbourne and were also beaten by the Dublin club in the FAI Women's Cup final.

Hennessy's performances at centre back earned her a place WNL team of the year and in August she was one of three Athlone Town players called up to an Irish women’s national team training session for home-based players.

Speaking about her arrival at Rovers, Hennessy said: “I am really excited to be joining Shamrock Rovers. I am looking forward to a new challenge with the club. Rovers is a perfect fit for me they are very professional club and I think it’s the right time for me to move forward in my career and embark on a new journey for the 2023 season.”

Women’s first team manager Collie O’Neill said that he is looking forward to working with Hennessy.

“Jessica has had an exceptional year; she is a commanding and dominant centre-half and also has the great ability of being able to step-in when in possession. She is a young, hungry player and I believe that she has a great future ahead of her.”

Head of Women’s football, Jason Carey is also excited about having Hennessy on board next season, saying that “Jessica is a tremendous young player with a fantastic attitude. I have very high hopes for her future, she is someone who has all the attributes that we are looking for as we build our new squad.”