By Rory McKee
A YOUNG rugby player from Ballygowan has found fresh inspiration after a special encounter with a member of Ireland’s Women’s Rugby World Cup squad.
Thirteen year-old Olivia Crothers designed a flag in support of her international hero Ruth Campbell and brought it along to Ireland’s final World Cup warm-up game against Canada in Belfast earlier this month.
Second-row Campbell, capped seven times for her country and part of the 32-woman squad which begins their World Cup campaign this weekend, spotted Olivia with the banner after the match and she took time out to share some photos and words of encouragement for the Saintfield High School student.
Olivia’s mum, Tracy works at La Mon Hotel in Dundonald where the team often stay ahead of matches and explained that was how her daughter, who herself plays in the second row for Instonians, and Campbell first became acquainted.
“Last year, we had the squad stay with us at La Mon and my colleague’s husband introduced Olivia to Ruth and the rest of the squad.
“We got sorted out with tickets for the Canada game and Olivia designed a flag with Ruth on it and uploaded a TikTok, which Ruth replied to,” Tracy said.
“After the game, she came over and spoke to Olivia and took a photo with the flag. She also gave her match shirt to Olivia.
“Ruth was so lovely and so giving of her time and she told Olivia that one day, she hoped to see her playing in Ireland colours. It has really inspired Olivia and it’s lovely that an international player took time for a young fan.”
Ireland kick-off their Women’s World Cup adventure against Japan in Northampton on Sunday (August 24).
