Geraldine Giles

Geraldine Giles talks about her involvement in the development of ladies football over the years. A native of Westmeath, she grew up in Killucan before eventually moving to Kinnegad. She had a keen interest in all sports as a child, and in 1984 her friend helped to set up a ladies football club in the local area. Geraldine played regularly for the team and went on to play at county level for Westmeath, going around the country to play games against the top sides. She also became involved in administration - sitting on committees and becoming a delegate to the county board, the Leinster Council and Central Council. Eventually she was elected President of the Ladies Football Association and she immediately set about improving the game nationwide, working with others to secure funding and make their vision for the game a reality through the implementation of a strategic plan. She recalls her many experiences during that period - the election process, handling thorny issues that arose, developing a relationship with the GAA and its presidents, visiting clubs around the country, engaging with the media and working with people who move in political circles. Geraldine has great enthusiasm for what she does. She has presided over many positive changes in ladies football, approaching every task with a strong work ethic, an open mind and a sense of humour.