Lorraine Bray excited about Waterford's progress

By Cian O'Connell

These are exciting times for camogie in Waterford. So, Lorraine Bray is optimistic about the future.

Tough times were endured, but now Waterford are extremely competitive at the highest level. Saturday's Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Semi-Final against Cork at UPMC Nowlan Park promises to be lively.

That Waterford have remained consistent in recent years is a source of encouragement for Lorraine Bray. Michael Boland took charge of Waterford ahead of the 2025 Championship with standards maintained. "The backroom team, they all stayed on board so we'd that bit of continuity which was fantastic," Bray says.

"They know the players. From the moment they stepped up, they instilled that belief in us. They know what our capabilities are. It has been massive to have the backing from those, instilling that belief within the players in the camp.

Being involved in the last four provides further evidence of Waterford's ability. "You can see the progress throughout the Championship, one Championship loss," Bray replies.

"So, we've been building throughout the Championship, reaping our rewards, reaching the All-Ireland Semi-Final. The excitement is building around Waterford which is brilliant."

Bray knows that it is key to stay competing in this company. "Years ago there was a lot of dark days," she replies.

"So, it has taken us a lot to build up to this stage. A lot of it comes down to experience, getting those young girls from minor, who're showing their ability on the underage stage, getting them involved with us, and getting them up to the tempo of senior level.

"That has been massive for us. It has really helped to build camogie in Waterford. It is really growing over the last few years, and it is brilliant to be still hitting quarter, semi-finals, and All-Ireland. We believe in ourselves that we have those capabilities. It isn't new to us."

Helping to inspire the next Deise generation is important. "Definitely, you always have that in the back of your mind," Bray responds. "I would've had massive respect for older girls when I came on to the panel. They'd a huge influence on my career, just always having your back.

"That is what all your team mates are about, that you've everyone's back when you go out on to that field. That alone instils a belief in younger players. Just having that respect for each other is massive in a camp."

Next on the agenda is a trip to UPMC Nowlan Park and Bray is relishing the challenge. "It is fantastic to be able to play in Nowlan Park," Bray says.

"Such an intimate stadium, you literally feel that the crowd is another player on the field. We saw that against Tipperary when we played them in an All-Ireland semi-final, it was the support and crowd that got us over the line on the day.

"It was massive. We're hoping that is brought again now on Saturday."