‘I remember thinking, that’s the last time you’ll ever f**king touch me’ — Revealed: The FÁS course, the players, the head coach and 30 years of buried pain

Although trusted with the captaincy, Lynn Winters felt Eamonn Collins made a point of belittling her in front of her teammates. Photo: Frank McGrath

Mark Tighe and Marie Crowe

In late July 1996, local newspapers around the country carried notices about an exciting opportunity for young women and teenage girls who dreamed of careers in football.

“The Ladies Football Association of Ireland (LFAI) is pleased to announce that, in association with FÁS, a full-time soccer skills course for girls will commence in September 1996,” it said. “The course, which is the first of its kind in this country for girls, will be based in Leixlip, Co Kildare.”