Issue link: http://digitaleditions.uberflip.com/i/1302727
www.ladiesgaelic.ie | AUTUMN 2020 | 27 station has done. I think it is very important to get advice and feedback from as many different stakeholders as possible. Q : What's it like being part of the TG4 team on big match day? A: There is always great excitement and anticipation on the big match days. You can see how determined players and teams are to win these big games and you are hoping that the people watching at home can sense this during the games. I have been lucky enough to be on the sideline during big games and to witness the elation and celebrations at the final whistle. Q : What have been the highlights for you of TG4's coverage of Peil na mBan over the course of two decades of Finals and coverage? A: Obviously last year's Finals and having 56,114 spectators in Croke Park was a highlight. But the general growth of Ladies Football over the last 20 years has been great - particularly at underage club level, schools, colleges and the Gaelic4Mothers&Others initiative. The increase in the number of young girls playing now, comparing to 20 or 25 years ago, is really positive. The expansion in TG4's coverage of Ladies Football is another highlight – TG4 broadcast six games in 2001 and in a normal year now there are 24 games on TG4 from the Lidl National Ladies Football Leagues, TG4 Championship, All Ireland Ladies Club Football Finals as well as more games being streamed online on Facebook and YouTube. The development of various marketing campaigns and extended social media activity has been very rewarding. TG4's sponsorship of the Ladies All Stars means that we get to be involved in rewarding players and the yearly banquet is a highlight in everyone's social calendar. Q : Did you ever think that the relationship that began back in 2001 would go on to become so established and long-lasting? A: TG4 was a young television channel back in 2001 and had only been on-air five years at that stage. TG4 and Ladies Football have grown and developed together over the years to where both organisations are today. In 2001, we understood that Ladies Football was growing very fast and that there was a lot of potential for more growth. And we are extremely grateful to the LGFA for giving TG4 the opportunity to broadcast and sponsor such a wonderful sport. It has been a privilege for TG4 to have this chance to showcase and to support Ladies Football. Q : And finally, Rónán, how do you see the 2020 TG4 Championships playing out? A: It is hard to call. Dublin are going for their fourth consecutive All-Ireland Senior title and all the other teams will be doing their best to stop them. I am looking forward to seeing some great games. The group games will also provide some interesting battles. Not to be biased but I am hoping my native Galway can bring the Brendan Martin Cup back west for the first time since 2004.