The long awaited Continental Tyres Women’s Under 17 National League kicks off today, with the Sligo Rovers women travelling to Dublin to take on Peamount (kick off 6.30pm).

The Bit O’Red’s first home game takes place at The Showgrounds next Saturday against Galway WFC.

The squad has been working hard in training ahead of the new season, with the Bit O’Red women raring to go.

Damon Kearney’s charges will also take on Donegal Women’s League, Athlone Town and Shelbourne Ladies throughout the course of the season.

Speaking ahead of the season, Erin Taheny said: “I’m very excited for the season ahead. It’s something different, it’s a step up. It’s great to have something to look towards. I’m a bit nervous because it is a massive step-up compared to Sligo/Leitrim and Gaynor Cup. It’s a new group of girls and it’s good to get to know them. I think we’ve really bonded as a team.”

Aife Haran, too, is looking forward to the start of the league campaign: “I’m really looking forward to it. It will be good for us to play against other good teams. I think it will bring us on as players. Training’s been really good, it’s been really intense which is good for us.”

Abbiegayle Ronayne is hoping that they can emulate the success of the Rovers underage boys teams: “I think it’s all about development because getting to play games with the best, you’re developing every game and you’re getting better as an individual and as a team. Sligo Rovers made a name for themselves with the men’s league and we’re kind of hoping to make a name for the women’s league and soon move up to seniors.”