Armagh captain Clodagh McCambridge excited for new era under manager Greg McGonigle as Orchard County prepares for Division 1 football

Armagh Ladies will make their return to Division 1 football on Sunday for the first time since 2017, when they host Waterford in Crossmaglen.

Ahead of the start of the league, Clodagh McCambridge spoke to the Newry Reporter and she says there is palpable excitement within the group, as they look forward to the challenges which lie ahead.

“We're definitely looking forward to it,” she said.

“It has been a long enough pre season and everyone is itching to get a competitive game and we're raring to get going again. We're back up in Division 1 this year, so there is a lot to look forward to.”

Armagh made a change in management after last season, with Shane McCormack departing to be replaced by former Dublin manager Greg McGonigle.

McCambridge and the rest of the Clann Eireann contingent in the team have plenty of familiarity with McGonigle after he guided the Lurgan side to their first ever Ulster Championship in 2023, and McCambridge is delighted with his appointment.

“We're definitely glad to have him in, because we had a great experience with him as manager of Clann Eireann this year,” she said.

“He sets high standards, and he has great experience behind him, so it's brilliant that he has been able to bring that with him into the Armagh camp.

“I know he challenges the girls in terms of his levels of expectation, but he's trying to get the best out of the team that we have, and they're starting to meet those expectations, which is really positive.”

On a personal level, 2024 will be a big year for McCambridge after she was announced as the new team captain in place of Kelly Mallon – who the full back paid tribute to for how she fulfilled the role over recent years.

“It's big steps for me to follow, after what Kelly Mallon did as captain,” said McCambridge.

“She was brilliant and she continues to be a massive leader in our group. So, learning from her over the years has been a big help. It's great to have her there to lean on.

“There are so many leaders in our group: we have Aimee and Blaithin [Mackin] and Lauren [McConville] amongst others, and we have so many voices who aren't afraid to contribute.”

Having knocked at the door of Division 1 for years, Armagh are finally where they want to be and McCambridge believes that they are ready for the step up.

“Over the past few years we have said that when it comes to the Championship, having played Division 1 football stands to you,” she said.

“It has been a big goal for us over the last few years, so to finally get over that hurdle last year was so important.

“Obviously, it's going to be a big step up compared to playing in Division 2 last year and it's important to get a good start. Waterford have had a lot more experience in Division 1 in recent years than we have, so it will be tough.

“It will be tough, but I'm confident that we can rise to the standard of Division 1.”