Galway footballer releases statement denying she racially abused Westport opponent
Eva Noone says the allegations are untrue and she has always condemned racism and discrimination
IN response to allegations that she racially abused a Westport player during last season's Connacht Club Championship semi-final Kilkerrin-Clonberne attacker Eva Noone has today released a lengthy statement.
In a statement released on her personal Instagram account, the corner-forward said she felt the need to address the matter after last weekend’s Connacht final between Mayo and Galway in Carrick-on-Shannon.
Mayo players wore “No to Racism” armbands during that match and many in crowd wore 'No to Racism' T-shirts.
In a statement, Noone said she had her suspension quashed after going to the Dispute Resolution Authority.
This is her statement in full.
“I wish to state clearly that I condemn racism and discrimination in all forms.”
“Such behaviour has no place in our sport or our society. I fully support the LGFA’s commitment to inclusivity, dignity and respect, and I recognise the seriousness with which allegations of this nature must be treated.
“At the same time, it is essential that all disciplinary processes are conducted fairly, objectively, and in accordance with established procedures, rules and evidential standards and also that the ultimate outcome is respected by all concerned.
“On November 2, 2025, Kilkerrin Clonberne played Westport in the Connacht Clubs semi-final. There was intense rivalry between the two sides but nothing more than we have experienced in other highly competitive matches.
“Two days after Kilkerrin-Clonberne won that match, an allegation was made claiming that I had racially abused an opposing player. This allegation is entirely untrue and without any foundation and I have consistently denied it. Significantly, there were no independent witnesses to the alleged incident nor was there any video evidence to support it despite the fact that the match was filmed and I was alleged to have said words and made gestures.
“Furthermore, no complaint was made to the referee or to any of the other seven officials present, none of whom heard or witnessed any behaviour of the nature alleged. In contrast, two of the officials witnessed and intervened in incidents of foul play against me.
“I first became aware of the allegation on the 24th of November, 2025 as a result of contact from a social media sports platform who appeared to have been given the information in breach of the LGFA rules on confidentiality. I was first formally notified of an investigation by Connacht CODA on the 16th of December, 2025. I submitted myself to the due process set out in the association’s rules and I fully cooperated with all procedures.
“After a hearing before the Connacht Hearings committee and an appeal to the Central Appeals Committee, at which I was supported by my club and my teammates who played alongside me and witnessed all my interactions at the match, I was found to have breached Rule 2.3(d) which is engaging in insulting behaviour to other competitors, match officials or any officials. I was suspended for 16 weeks and fined €200. These decisions were challenged by me at the Dispute Resolution Authority who after a lengthy hearing quashed both decisions and decided not to direct a remittal for further disciplinary action as it determined that the disciplinary procedure was fundamentally flawed.
“Despite that positive outcome, the lengthy process over the course of four months had a profound impact on my personal wellbeing, mental health and reputation. During that time, I missed important college and county matches, national events and opportunities connected to my teaching placement. I was also subjected to significant public scrutiny and online abuse.
“I was advised I should not speak about the matter during the currency of the disciplinary process and indeed had not intended to do so at all after it concluded until I was subjected to serious abuse and an attack on my person while on the field of play during last Sunday’s Connacht County final.
“I have played football since I was five years old and have an exemplary record, never having received even a yellow card at club, school, college, or county level. I have played with and against individuals from diverse backgrounds, captained teams both at home and abroad, and am currently training to be a teacher.
“The allegation made against me does not reflect my character, conduct, or the values I have consistently demonstrated throughout my involvement within the game and in my life outside of it. Anyone who knows me can attest to that.
“I have been aware from a young age of the spotlight I am under at all times on the field and the role model that I have become for others and the necessity of always trying to live up to that. It is a responsible position which I value enormously and I would never ever jeopardise it lightly.
“I hope people will respect the seriousness of these matters viewed from both sides and the importance of respecting and recognising that due process has taken place. I now wish to focus on moving forward, continuing my career, and contributing positively to our game and society both on and off the field.
“Thank you to everyone particularly my family, team mates and mentors for their unstinting support throughout this period.”