Stephanie Roche signs for Shamrock Rovers’ League of Ireland Women’s Premier Division side

Stephanie Roche

Stephanie Roche Credit: Shamrock Rovers

Republic of Ireland international and 2014 FIFA Puskás Award runner up Stephanie Roche is the latest signing for Shamrock Rovers’ new women’s senior side.

The striker who has had spells playing overseas in France, Italy and the USA and who played a crucial part in Peamount United’s success in the WNL joins Áine O’Gorman in making the move from the Peamount to the Hoops.

“I am really excited to be joining Shamrock Rovers,” said Roche. “After speaking to the club, I really wanted to be part of this exciting and significant advancement in the league. I have always been an advocate for higher standards across the league and in Women’s football and that’s what Shamrock Rovers are doing here”. 

On her Instagram account 33-year-old Roche thanked Peamount United who played a crucial part in her career.

“Thank you to everyone @peamountutdfc for not just the last few seasons but everything throughout my career thus far. A club I owe a lot to and will be forever grateful to.

“After a lot of thought I felt the time was right for me to move on and the new wave of young players to come through. I wish the club all the best for the future.”

Academy graduates

Earlier this week, the Hoops confirmed that four of their Academy players - Maria Reynolds, Abby Tuthill, Jaime Thompson and Orlaith O’Mahony who have been playing with the Rovers u-19 team, and at international level at that age group, will join the club’s new senior squad.   

First team manager Collie O’Neill said “I am absolutely thrilled to have Stephanie on board. She has had a fantastic career so far, she is a very intelligent, technical, and astute player with a great eye for goal. She possesses all the qualities that we are looking for to help set high standards for the group both on and off the pitch”. 



Speaking about the promotion of those young players into his senior squad, O’Neill said: “They all have tremendous technical ability and desire to play at the top level. They are already embedded into the club and appreciate the culture and professionalism that exists in the club.” 

Jason Carey, the Head of Womens’ Football at Rovers said about Roche that she “is a fantastic player who has paved the way for many young Irish girls who have wanted to be a professional footballer. She will have a hugely positive effect on the culture of the team”. 

Other players confirmed for the Rovers squad are former Athlone Town defender Jessica Hennessy, Ireland under age international Alannah McEvoy and goalkeeper Summer Lawless.

About Macdara Ferris

Macdara Ferris is a contributor since 2007 to Hoops Scene (Shamrock Rovers' match day programme) and is the co-author of two books on Shamrock Rovers - 'Tallaght Time: Shamrock Rovers 2009 to 2012' (with Karl … View Full Profile