"It's been brilliant to start every game," she discusses enthusiastically. "The experience has been incredible, especially having the chance to play alongside girls who already have international caps. It pushes you to raise your own game."
The extended format of this year's Celtic Challenge has proven to be a significant advantage for the Wolfhounds. Unlike previous years, the longer competition has allowed the team to delve deeper into tactical nuances, experiment with different playing styles, and cultivate a stronger team dynamic. "Having more time together as a team has been a real game-changer," Clenaghan explains. "We've had the opportunity to try new things on the pitch, refine our strategies, and really gel as a unit. It's made a huge difference."
For Clenaghan, the Celtic Challenge has brought significant opportunities for personal growth and development. The consistent game time and the chance to test herself against top-quality opposition have significantly boosted her confidence. "Playing week in, week out, and starting every game has been massive for my confidence," she shares. "I feel like I've grown so much as a player throughout this competition, and I'm really excited to see what we can achieve in the final round, with hopes of winning the trophy for the second consecutive year."
The Wolfhounds' impressive run in the Celtic Challenge with only one loss, is a testament to the hard work, unwavering dedication, and seamless communication within the squad. "Everyone is singing off the same hymn sheet," she says. "We’re going into each game with a really clear plan." Clenaghan emphasises. "We have a clear game plan going into every match, and the communication on and off the field has been excellent. That clarity and connection have been key to our consistency." The team’s strong bond is evident in their performance, with players fully supporting one another, both in training and during matches.
One might expect that assembling a team from different provinces could lead to challenges in building camaraderie and a sense of unity. However, the Wolfhounds have defied this notion, forging a strong bond during their time together. "Honestly, it's been amazing how well we've come together as a team," Clenaghan says with a smile. "We've built genuine connections, and everyone is truly enjoying playing together. That positive energy is definitely translating to the pitch."
Maebh explains that playing with international players she looks up to has made her even more determined to don a green jersey. "Being surrounded by those girls who've been there, done that, the experience and attitude they bring on and off the pitch is quite admirable," Maebh shares. "It’s showing me that it can be done. You’re very close, but you’ve got to put in the work."
Maebh also highlights the importance of having role models, like Claire Boles, the Wolfhounds’ captain. "Having Claire as captain has been unreal," she says. "It’s really nice to see someone from Ulster in that role, pulling us all up." Claire’s journey to possibly earning her first 15s cap this Six Nations serves as a source of inspiration for Maebh and many others in the squad.
Touching on the success of having an Ulster player as the Wolfhounds’ captain, Maebh discussed the strength of grassroots women’s rugby in Ulster. "It’s really great to see," Maebh says, reflecting on the increasing number of young female players coming through the ranks. Recently, Ulster celebrated seven U18 players getting called up to the Six Nations squad. “I know a lot of those girls and train with them twice a week. I've been able to watch them over the past two years and how they're developing and the work they're putting in.”
Maebh also notes the success of clubs like Queen’s University and Enniskillen, where grassroots talent is flourishing. "It’s amazing to see players who’ve come through the Ulster pathway now playing at that club level," she says. "Seeing these pathways come to fruition is an exciting sign of what’s to come for women’s rugby in Ulster."
For Maebh, grassroots rugby has played a crucial role in her development as a player. Her time at Queen’s University has provided a solid foundation, not only through the opportunity to hone her personal skills but also through the leadership roles she’s taken on the pitch. "Grassroots level gives me more opportunities to try and develop my own personal skills," she explains. "I’ve been able to learn how to flow between different positions and see the game from different perspectives." This experience has helped her perform at a higher level, bringing these skills to the National Training Squad (NTS) and Ulster training.
Queen’s University, with its excellent facilities and supportive environment, has been instrumental in Maebh’s growth as a player. "It’s such a lovely environment," she says. "The enjoyment alone is worth it, and it goes hand in hand with helping performance."
As Maebh looks ahead, she’s excited about the opportunities in women’s rugby, including the upcoming Interpros and the World Cup. While the competition for spots in the national team is fierce, Maebh is optimistic about the future. "From an interpro perspective, a lot of international players won’t be able to play, which gives Ulster a big opportunity to compete against more evenly balanced provinces," she says.
With many of the international players potentially unavailable this summer, Maebh is ready to step up and take on a leadership role within the Ulster senior women’s team. "I’ve been involved with Ulster since the U18s, and I know how our team works," she reflects. "I’d like to think I can bring my knowledge from NTS and Celtic Challenge back into camp."
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s important to recognise the incredible journey of players like Maebh Clenaghan and the ongoing development of women’s rugby. From grassroots initiatives to national competitions, the growth of the sport is a collective effort that is breaking down barriers and providing more opportunities for women in rugby. Maebh’s story is just one example of the potential that exists in the sport, and with continued support and investment, the future of women’s rugby in Ulster and beyond looks incredibly bright.