KATIE MULLAN
ABOUT YOU
Name: Katie Mullan
Age: 22
Hometown: Coleraine
Occupation: Student at UCD, studying a Masters in Biomedical Engineering
Teams representing: UCD, Irish Senior Women
INTRODUCTION TO HOCKEY
- What first inspired you to take up sport?
Having two older brothers meant I didn’t have much choice in the matter when told to stand in the soccer net. My competitive nature grew from the idea of beating them at anything so I began to try every sport out there. As a family we loved the outdoors.
- Did friends, family or school play a factor in taking up sport?
My parents took us all along to every sports club imaginable from a young age, from golf to wakeboarding, where I made many friends for life.
- Were you nervous when you first started? If so, how did you overcome this?
Yes, I still get nervous when I play at international level. I think the best way is to embrace your nerves, understand that it is a good feeling and that they highlight your passion and desire. It is always important to remember times when you have been successful if you are very nervous.
- Was there a point at which your interest in hockey began to grow, in terms of pursing this as your main sport?
In 2010 I went to the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore with the Irish Under 17s and following this I had a desire to get a senior international cap and push to someday go to a Senior Olympic Games and Hockey World Cup.
HOCKEY HIGHLIGHTS
- What are some of your main sporting achievements to date?
My 100th Cap for Ireland, aged 22 is a key one for me. Some team achievements include Irish Senior Cup 2014, Irish Hockey League 2014, Bronze in the 2012 Champions Challenge and Silver in the 2014 Champions Challenge.
- How does it feel to represent Ireland, and to have gained 100 caps by 22?
I feel extremely privileged to have represented my country over 100 times; I remember my first cap like it was yesterday. We are blessed with the opportunity of playing at least 25 international caps each year but I am so proud each time I pull on the shirt. It is a huge benefit to get world-class experience at a young age.
- How do you think you have managed to progress to the position you are in now as a highly successful athlete?
I believe that time management and drive are two of the most important factors to being a successful young athlete. You have to be incredibly disciplined to ensure you get the balance right between your sporting career and work or study. I ensure to dedicate time to close friends and family because they provide the necessary support to help reach your potential.
- Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?
I would like to see myself as a fully qualified Biomedical Engineer having played in a major international tournament.
AND FINALLY…
- What are the three best things about being a sportsperson?
Representing your country, the friends I have made and the countries I have got to travel to.
- What advice would you provide to; A: girls considering taking up sport? B: Girls who are hesitant about continuing with performance squads in light of having to find a balance between their sporting and academic lives?
A: Sport has taught me some of the most important life lessons. It has helped me develop values I may not otherwise have and, best of all, it has pushed me way beyond my comfort zone! The friendships I have made are easily some of the best I have.
B: I have found sport the best release when the pressure comes on academically. During intense study periods I have found my hockey to be a great way to clear my mind and reset. It reduces the stress levels and helps you to apply yourself much better.
