Ursula Jacob has had an incredible career in Camogie, whether it be on the pitch or in punditry.
She was a key part of the incredible Wexford side that won three consecutive All-Ireland's in 2010, 2011 and 2012.
Like many top players in the country, Ursula Jacob brought her talents to punditry, becoming a regular on the Sunday Game. This was a moment that she could not believe, admitting she sometimes had to pinch herself as she sat alongside her heros.
"I find it hard to believe at times. I always watched it, growing up, and now here I am sitting on the same couch as the likes of Anthony Daly, Jackie Tyrrell and Dónal Óg Cusack. They are the players that I looked up to."
Despite being one of the greatest Camogie players of all time, it unfortunately didn't stop Ursula Jacob from receiving online abuse. A far too common issue that many of her colleagues face in today's world, Ursula Jacob could have taken the easy option to stay quiet on the abuse.
However, she made the brave decision to speak out on the abuse she faced, and has no regrets in doing so.
It was impacting me on a personal level. A lot of people were saying, ‘Ignore the trolls,’ but, for me, sometimes you do need to stand up. It doesn’t mean it’s always the easy thing to do.
I have received a massive amount of support. It just shows there are a lot of kind and genuine people out there as well. Sometimes you have to express how you feel, you have to express that that is not acceptable on any level.
I’m very open to anybody disagreeing with my opinion, but I’m not open to anybody making personal remarks about me, about my voice, my accent or whatever. As I said at the time, I’m very proud to be from Wexford – and I’m not looking to change for these people.
At least I’m brave enough and confident enough to go on television and do that, whereas these people hide behind computer screens or their phones and get a kick out of trolling people."
Ursula Jacob On Growth Of Camogie
It's exciting times in the world of Camogie right now. Last year was one of the most exciting championships in living memory, with Kilkenny running out as winners.
Ahead of this season, Electric Ireland have been confirmed as the sponsor for the All-Ireland minor championships and the third-level colleges competitions. Speaking on the partnership, Ursula Jacob looked back on her experience in the Ashbourne Cup.
Camogie is in a good place. The players are fitter and stronger. It’s a better spectacle. But it needs to continue to grow. Kilkenny, Cork and Galway are the standard-bearers, and it’s up to the other counties to come up to them. Hopefully, we’ll see it in the next couple of years.
It’s backing the next generation. I was lucky enough to play at minor level and in the Ashbourne Cup, and these competitions are so important for developing young players.”
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