Derry memorial bowl links Rosie Stewart’s legacy with women’s health awareness
The annual match honoured the former Ireland international, while a pre-match discussion covered cancer awareness and athletic health.
Cooke and Enniskillen met in Derry for the annual Rosie Stewart Memorial Bowl, remembering the former Ireland international and founding member of Ulster Women’s Rugby. Stewart won four Ireland caps between 1999 and 2000.
Stewart, who was from Derry, died of breast cancer in 2003, aged 33. The match is held each year in her memory and to promote women’s health.
Before kick-off, the Western Trust’s Jacinta McCool and fitness coach Claire O’Hagan led a discussion on breast and cervical cancer awareness, female strength and conditioning, and the menstrual cycle’s effects on athletic performance.
McCool spoke about early detection and better cure rates. Stewart’s sister, Colette Risely, said she believed that talking about awareness could save lives.
City of Derry player Kelly Gormley said several members of the squad had been affected by breast cancer. She described Stewart as a pioneering figure in women’s rugby and said the match celebrated her contribution to the game.
