DLR Waves go into this 2026 season with hopes of finishing higher in the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division after ending up in 9th position last year.
Laura Heffernan has brought in former Ireland WNT striker Rianna Jarrett to join the team’s coaching staff which already includes another ex-WNT international in Sonya Hughes.
There will be a missing piece for the Waves going forward because after over 100 appearances, over the span of six years as goalkeeper for the girls in blue, Eva Badana has retired from the game. The most likely replacement is Summer Lawless, who arrives from Shamrock Rovers.
During the off-season, Heffernan has brought in the talented Michelle Muddiman from Bohemians and welcomed back defender Hannah Tobin Jones following a year away travelling.
Pre-season friendlies have allowed the Waves to work on a few things and they will have taken a lot from their joust with reigning champions Athlone Town - even if it ended in defeat.
First up in the season is the visit of Galway United to the UCD Bowl on Saturday, March 14th. The players will view it as the perfect opportunity to set the tone for what they want to achieve throughout the year.
Ultimately, the target, for players and staff, is to finish higher than they did last year. But they will be hoping to spring a surprise or two in that pursuit.
Head Coach: Laura Heffernan
Key Player: Jess Gleeson
One to Watch: Summer Lawless
