Waterford FC are also delighted to confirm the re-signing of midfielder Olivia Shannon ahead of the 2026 League of Ireland season for our Senior Women’s side.
The 18 year-old returns to the Blues for 2026 having created history in 2025, scoring our first ever Senior Women’s goal in our first ever win in our 2-0 away win in Sligo last March – a game that saw her score either side of half-time.
The exciting midfielder joined our academy in 2024, playing a pivotal role for our WU17s as they finished second in the 2024 WU17 League of Ireland, before earning a call-up to our Senior Women’s side ahead of 2025.
Shannon became a regular for the Blues in 2025, making 17 appearances across all competitions, ending the season being named our Young Player of the Year after an impressive first season in senior football.
Speaking to the club after re-signing for 2026, Shannon outlined her eagerness to get straight to work, saying:
“I am buzzing to be back in Blue. Last year, I learned a lot and hope to continue growing through 2026. I can’t wait to get back out at the RSC with the girls!”
Blues Head Coach Gary Hunt is looking forward to seeing Shannon excite the Blues supporters in 2026 after her re-signing, mentioning:
“Last year was a massive breakthrough year for Olivia. From scoring the clubs historic first goal in Sligo to winning our Young Player of the Year award, I’m excited to see her bring her game to another level in 2026.
Olivia works hard on her game both while with us and also away from us and you can see how important football is to her. I know she is driven to be better each session. Having young players in that mindset makes our job as staff much more rewarding.
I’m sure there will be plenty more headlines this season from Olivia and the Blues fans will enjoy seeing her back in action.”
Welcome back, Olivia!
Olivia Shannon’s Player Sponsorship is now available for 2026. Contact Waterford FC Commercial Manager Tony Kelly at tony.kelly@waterfordfc.ie to find out more.
