Saoirse Noonan Biography: Celtic’s Irish Forward & Dual-Code Star

Saoirse Noonan is an accomplished Irish footballer and former Gaelic footballer, renowned for her versatility, athleticism, and goal-scoring ability. She plays as a forward for Celtic FC in the Scottish Women’s Premier League and represents the Republic of Ireland at senior international level.

Saoirse-Noonan
Saoirse-Noonan

Early Life and Background

  • Full Name: Saoirse Noonan

  • Date of Birth: 13 July 1999

  • Place of Birth: Cork, Ireland

  • Height: 170 cm (5 ft 7 in)

  • Position: Forward / Playmaking Midfielder

  • Nationality: Irish

Noonan’s early sporting life was marked by success in both soccer and Gaelic football, excelling at youth level with Cork and Nemo Rangers, and winning multiple underage All-Ireland titles.

Club Career

  • Cork City (2015–2021):
    Joined at age 16, became the club’s all-time record goal scorer, and won the FAI Women’s Cup in 2017. Named WNL Young Player of the Year in 2017.

  • Shelbourne (2021–2023):
    Continued her prolific form, winning the Women’s National League in 2021.

  • Celtic FC (2024–present):
    Signed a three-year deal in 2024.
    Quickly made an impact, helping Celtic achieve historic results in European competition and the SWPL.
    Known for her ability to play as a centre forward or attacking midfielder, contributing both goals and assists.

International Career

  • Republic of Ireland:
    Former youth national team captain and U17 International Player of the Year (2016).
    Made her senior debut in 2016 and has been a regular squad member since 2020, earning caps in UEFA and World Cup qualifiers.

Gaelic Football Career

  • Cork County (2018–2020):
    Played at senior level, winning the Ladies’ National Football League and Munster titles.
    Gained a reputation as a prolific scorer and “super sub,” helping Cork reach the All-Ireland final in 2018 and 2020.

Playing Profile

  • Strengths: Versatility, finishing, movement, and ability to perform in high-pressure games

  • Style: Dynamic attacker, comfortable as a striker or attacking midfielder, known for her work rate and creativity

Honours & Achievements

  • FAI Women’s Cup: Winner (2017, Cork City)

  • Women’s National League: Winner (2021, Shelbourne)

  • Ladies’ National Football League (Gaelic): Winner (2019, Cork)

  • Individual:

    • FAI U17 International Player of the Year (2016)

    • WNL Young Player of the Year (2017)

Personal Life

  • Founded her own clothing brand, “Freedom,” reflecting the meaning of her name.

  • Comes from a sporting family; her sister Aoibhe is also a footballer.

FAQs About Saoirse Noonan

What position does Saoirse Noonan play?
Forward and playmaking midfielder.

Which club does she play for?
Celtic FC.

How old is Saoirse Noonan?
25 (born July 13, 1999).

What are her main achievements?
FAI Cup and league winner, Ireland international, and former Cork Gaelic football star.

What is her playing style?
Versatile, creative, and clinical in attack—effective as both a scorer and provider.

Conclusion

Saoirse Noonan’s dual-code sporting journey and achievements in both soccer and Gaelic football highlight her as one of Ireland’s most talented and versatile athletes. Now starring for Celtic and the Republic of Ireland, she continues to make an impact at the highest level of women’s football.