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From the pitches of Milford to representing Ireland on the international stage, Amber Barrett’s journey in football is one defined by passion, perseverance, and purpose. Now an AYA Brand Ambassador, Amber sat down with Her Sport to talk about her beginnings in sport, the challenges facing young female athletes, and her habits that keep her game-ready, both physically and mentally.
Amber’s love of sport started from a young age playing with her brothers and cousins after school any chance they got. “I have loved football since I was a little girl and started playing it in primary school,” she says. Growing up in a sport-loving family, with dad Shaun, who was heavily involved in the local GAA in Milford, there was always a sport either being talked about or played. “I always had a ball at my feet… That is when I got into the competitive side of the game.”
It wasn’t just football that captured Amber’s heart. Jacqueline, Amber’s mum, had a passion for athletics, which was handed-down to Amber. “I joined the Milford Athletics Club and, for a time, was involved with athletics, soccer, and GAA all at once,” she recalls.
Amber’s dream as a young girl was to become a professional athlete and this was always supported by her family. It was always a dream that could become reality based on encouragement she got at home. “Yes,” she says without hesitation. “Growing up with a very sporting family, I knew if I really pushed myself, I could make a career out of it.”
That self-belief, along with her dedication to the sport and unwavering support, has led her to elite levels in women’s football. Now, as a role model to the next generation, she’s passionate about paying it forward.
When asked what advice she would give young women and girls interested in pursuing sport, Amber told us, “Don’t give up, keep pushing for the sport you want to play or pursue a career in. I think that the more success we see in women’s sport, and the more female coaches involved, the more it will improve. It takes time to build, but as long as we continue to support every female who has an ambition to be involved in sport, this will keep improving.”
There is no denying that there has been a significant rise in popularity of women’s football, particularly in Europe. Despite that, however, football is still perceived as a ‘male-dominated sport’. When approached about the topic of women’s representation in sport, Barrett is fairly optimistic.
“I do think that women are well represented in sport,” Barrett says. “The gender balance isn’t perfect, but it is improving all the time. While we can’t expect it to be matched to the men’s game in such a short period of time, it is building in all the right ways.” Amber shows positivity that women’s sport is ever continuing to grow and develop, however, she also points to a persistent issue that deserves urgent attention.
“The one challenge we have to sort out is the drop-off of interest in sport among teenage girls.” At Her Sport we have seen this across numerous sports. Teenage girls often disengage from sport due to a combination of reasons. According to recent studies, girls are twice as likely as boys to give up sport by the age of 14.
The footballer believes reversing this cycle is critical for the future of women’s sport. “Empowering young girls to stay active and see a future for themselves in sport, whether professionally or just for enjoyment, is so important,” she says.
Amber Barrett Irish International Footballer talks with Her Sport on how sport has impacted her life and her partnership with AYA
Wellness, Mindset & AYA
As a professional athlete, Amber knows that preparation off the pitch is just as important as performance on it. That’s why her partnership with AYA is such a natural fit.
“I take my diet and lifestyle seriously,” she shares. “AYA is a mainstay of my daily routine. It helps me stay healthy and avoid getting run-down. I can’t live without AYA Electrolytes Plus – it provides rapid hydration, gives me an energy boost, and contains essential vitamins and minerals.”
But her wellness rituals go beyond nutrition. Amber also makes time to meditate two to three times a week. “Especially during tournaments, I find meditation really helps me reduce stress and promotes general health and wellbeing,” she says.
Amber Barrett is not just a star on the pitch!
She’s a role model for young athletes looking to follow in her footsteps. Whether it’s sharing her story, championing better representation, or encouraging mental and physical wellness. Amber continues to inspire through the message she carries: stay focused, stay healthy, and never stop believing.
As Amber Barrett continues to carve out her legacy in football, her journey is far from over. From her historic goal that sent Ireland to their first-ever Women’s World Cup to standout performances throughout her career. She continues to prove herself as a player of rare resilience and striking ability. Off the pitch, Amber Barrett’s voice continues to grow louder as a role model for young athletes, especially in rural Ireland, where her story inspires countless others to dream big.
Whether she’s leading the line or leading by example, Amber Barrett’s next chapter promises to be as impactful as her journey so far. Where will she be inspiring us from next?
