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11 Sept 2025
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11 Sept 2025
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Deirdre Whyte pictured with some young members of the Ballina RFC Club. Pic: John O'Grady
THERE is excitement in the air in Ballina today after local woman Deirdre Whyte was appointed to the Connacht Rugby Board. A statement from Ballina RFC expressed the immense pride being felt in the club this afternoon after Deirdre's decades of dedication to the sport was recognised.
A native of Sligo, the long-time resident the North Mayo town has long been a passionate and tireless advocate for rugby in the West of Ireland. A dedicated member of Ballina RFC, she made history in 2010 by founding the first-ever Youth Girls Rugby team in both Ballina and within Connacht. Her leadership and vision have been instrumental in growing the women’s game throughout the province.
In 2021, she broke further ground as the first Lady President of Ballina RFC, and has continued to represent the club and region with distinction on the Connacht Adult Competitions and Age Grade Competitions Committees, as well as the IRFU Women's Sub-Committee.
READ MORE: Popular local Mayo connections claim glory at Ballinrobe Races
In 2024, Deirdre took up the role of Chairwoman of the Connacht Women’s Advisory Group, further demonstrating her commitment to the development and advancement of women's rugby.
President of Ballina RFC, Ed Gunning, expressed the pride in the club. “This appointment to the Connacht Rugby Board is a richly-deserved acknowledgment of Deirdre’s decades of service, vision, and leadership in rugby. We are honoured to have her as a member of our club and wish her every success in her new role”.
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