Irish football mourns Teresa Logue, part of first Irish women's squad

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) have expressed their sympathies on the passing of former Donegal-based goalkeeper, Teresa Logue (née Holland), who was part of the first-ever Irish Women's Football team.

Teresa Logue passed away on September 25 at her home in Sion Mills, Tyrone, and her Funeral Mass took place on September 27 at St Theresa’s Church, Sion Mills.

A former player of the Twin Town Harps, which were formed in 1968, Teresa, along with Geraldine Molloy, received a call-up to be part of the Irish Women’s squad in 1973.

In May 1973, Teresa was part of a squad that beat Wales 3-2 in front of 3,000 attendees at Llanelli’s Stebonheath Park, in an historic fixture for Irish sport.

At her Funeral Mass, it was said: “In 1973, while still in her teens, she played football for Ireland, travelling to Wales for the finals, where they won. In those days, there were no football kits for women and no travel expenses. The players had to fund it all themselves.

“Fifty years later on, they were finally recognised with the kit, the shirt we see before us today, and a medal, and they were capped properly. Teresa was definitely pleased with that.”

An online statement by the FAI stated: “The FAI is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Ireland WNT goalkeeper Teresa Holland.

“The Donegal native was part of the squad for the WNT’s first ever game in 1973.”

A post by Tyrone GAA club, Urney St Columba GFC, mourned Teresa, commenting: “The officers, players and members of Urney St. Columba's extend their deepest sympathy to the family of Teresa Logue, Sion Mills, who sadly passed away.

“Teresa's brother, Pat Holland, served Urney St. Columba's with distinction for many decades as a player, Chairman, County Representative, and in numerous other roles throughout the Club. Her nephew, Martin Holland, continues that proud association as both a player and committee member.

“At this sad time, we extend our sincere condolences to the Logue and Holland family circles, friends and all who mourn Teresa's passing.”

Teresa was the beloved wife of the late Pat (Big Pat), and the much-loved sister of Pat, Kathleen, Frank, Lawrence, Eileen and Michael.

Her loss is deeply regretted by her sorrowing brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and family circle.