The rising success of the Northern Ireland women's team is set to feature in a special documentary premiering on UTV on Thursday night.
‘World at their Feet’ will chart the incredible journey of women's football in the country, which culminated in this year's historic appearance at the Euro finals in England.
Presented by Ruth Gorman, the programme looks back at the year that put the game on the map and is both a celebration of the year that's been, and also what needs to be done to ensure further success.
Read more: O'Neill 'not after a statue' as he plots new Northern Ireland course
From increased visibility, breaking into the mainstream media and inspiring the next generation of players, this year was the year the women's game changed forever.
Ruth speaks to key figures in football in Northern Ireland including captain Marissa Callaghan who confesses to having to overcome nerves to become a leader in the dressing room.
Manager Kenny Shiels talks too of the early days and aspiring to ‘remove the fear of failure.’
He describes the team he first came to, saying: “There was players that they could do one in every three sessions. There was players who one had bad knees.
"One didn't like to head the ball, couldn't head the ball, actually. And one can only last 60 minutes. You know, this is the stuff that I was getting, and I was thinking, oh, god, what have I let myself in for? But it was a challenge.”
Northern Ireland Men’s captain Steven Davis also talks about keeping the momentum going and building on the success of the women’s game.
He tells Ruth: “Younger girls want to get involved in the game as well. So it's been all positive and we just keep pushing in that direction.
"I think it's been getting better in all sports across the board in terms of opportunities that are there for kids. But it's important we keep trying to push that there and give everybody the same opportunities."
UTV Programme Producer Simon McIntyre came up with the idea for the programme.
He added: “Enthusiasm for the women’s game is at an all-time high. It’s been an incredible journey for this squad – to go from playing in front of a few dozen people to selling out Windsor Park is quite the achievement.
"We were delighted to get behind the scenes to see the work that has gone in to make this happen and to see how Northern Ireland women are aiming to continue that success. Thanks to everyone who took time out of their busy schedules to talk to us.”
'World At Their Feet' airs on UTV on Thursday, December 8 at 9.35pm, and you can catch up afterwards on www.itv.com/utvprogrammes.
READ NEXT:
- Michael O'Neill sends out resounding message to fans after NI return
Michael O'Neill returns as Northern Ireland manager - live updates
Michael O'Neill confirmed as new Northern Ireland boss on bumper long-term deal
Michael O'Neill appointment a no brainer for ex-NI striker Dowie
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox.
