Mayo men’s county champions ratify Cora Staunton as coach
Caoimhín Rowland
Cora Staunton, the former Mayo ladies footballer and AFLW sensation, has officially joined the coaching ranks of Ballina Stephenites for the 2024 season.
Fresh off her role as a performance coach with the Galway camogie team last season, Staunton's expertise is poised to elevate the north Mayo side to new heights.
Staunton's sporting resume is unrivalled across various codes, including Gaelic football, Australian Rules Football (AFLW), soccer, and rugby.
With an impressive collection of accolades, including 11 All-Star Awards, four All-Ireland titles, and three National League titles with Mayo, she is undeniably a force to be reckoned with in the world of Gaelic football. Her six All-Ireland ladies club championship titles with Carnacon further highlight her impressive CV.
Beyond the Irish shores, Staunton has etched her name in the annals of the AFLW, showcasing her adaptability and goal-scoring prowess while playing for Greater Western Sydney since 2018.
Her arrival at Ballina Stephenites signifies not only a coup in terms of coaching but also brings with it a wealth of international experience and a winning mentality.
Niall Heffernan, the manager of Ballina Stephenites, spoke to The Connaught Telegraph about Staunton's inclusion in the coaching team, mentioning the significant impact she is expected to make. Having known Staunton for years from his time with the Mayo ladies, Heffernan highlighted her unmatched skills as a player and anticipates that she will bring a fresh perspective to coaching.
"She's one of the best ever ladies Gaelic footballers and one of the most accurate forwards of either gender ever. She would have learned a lot from her time in Australia and has great life experience. She's a huge addition to the coaching team," remarked Heffernan.
Despite securing the Moclair Cup in the senior county final in 2023, Ballina Stephenites are not resting on their laurels. The team is already in the planning stages for the upcoming season, and Staunton's involvement is expected to be a game-changer. Her coaching prowess, coupled with her storied playing career, positions her as a catalyst for player development and an invaluable asset in the team's quest for excellence.