Wexford Youths captain Kylie Murphy has been named the first-ever Soccer Writers of Ireland women’s personality of the year.
The 33-year-old was the outstanding player in the Women’s National League in 2021 as she adapted to a new role as striker and led the club to the FAI Cup crown.
Carlow native Murphy, who has played the bulk of her career as a creative midfielder, notched 15 goals in the league and missed out on the golden boot to Aine O’Gorman by a goal.
Shamrock Rovers boss Stephen Bradley scooped the men’s award as he led the Hoops to a second successive Premier Division title.
St Patrick’s Athletic goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros, who spent the season on loan at Richmond Park from Liverpool and led them to the FAI Cup crown, took the goalkeeper of the year gong.
Shelbourne’s Gav White was named public relations officer of the year while Dundalk took home the website of the year award.
And Jerry Harris, the late volunteer who was involved in Cork football, including the creation of Cork City in 1984, was honoured with the Liam Tuohy Special Merit Award.
“First and foremost, I’m delighted that a women’s award has been created. That’s the big highlight but to be the first name on it is pretty huge,” said Youths captain Murphy.
Bradley said: “For me, it’s brilliant when you look at the names on the trophy. It is an honour to win it.
“It’s more a reflection of what the team has achieved and, thankfully, I get named for the award as a personal accolade but I think it’s more down to the team."
Jaros, who is back at Liverpool ahead of another expected loan, said: “To get the trophy for Goalkeeper of the Year is brilliant on top of the FAI Cup final and everything that happened last year.”
