We are very sad to wave goodbye to two of our Senior Women stalwarts as work takes Sarah O'Brien and Lauren Walker to pastures new. We wish them both well in their new ventures and hope to see them back soon! We had one last chat with them to find out more about what was happening.
Lauren Walker
How many years have you played at Kats?
I've played for Kats twice! Once was for 7 years (I then left to play pro in Holland) and now for 3 years. So 10 years in total. Saying that, from a young age I used to go to all home games at Meadowbank (women used to play before the Kings!) to watch Kats play as I've always regarded them as the best club in Scotland, and one of the best in the UK.
Tell us about the reason for your move
I'm moving to Malmo, Sweden, in order to return to what I love to do- teaching history at an international school. I came home 3 years ago for various reasons which has been good but circumstances have now changed and I feel the urge to return to the international school scene.
What has been the highlight of your time at the Club?
Omg!! There has been so many highlights it's almost impossible to choose! Naturally doing the treble this years was an amazing achievement. It was also the first time I've ever won a league championship at Kats so that was particularly special to me. The double last year was also great. Playing with Rose, Emma and Tracey as well as other great players of their time- Jo Sutherland, Nicky Smith, Vlasta Jamnicky. It has just been an amazing experience as well as a total honour and privilege to be part of a club so great as CoE KK. There has only ever been one club for me...
Do you have any advice for the younger players at the Club?
Listen to what your coaches are telling you! Pay attention to the older players- watch how they practice, conduct themselves both on and off the court and as much as possible always strive to keep improving. You're only as good as your last game...
I'll be home at various points so as long as there's games being played at Porty I'll come along to cheer! Good luck for the coming season (I'll be watching from Sweden!) and catch up next time I'm back :)
Sarah O'Brien
How many years have you played at Kats?
I played at the club for the past 5 years after moving from city at junior level. I'm so devastated to be leaving as I had such a great experience at the club and devastated that my final year there was plagued by injuries.
Tell us about the reason for your move
I'm moving up to Aberdeen to take up a PE teaching position in Kemnay Academy for a year which has meant Tayside Musketeers will be the closest club.
What has been the highlight of your time at the Club?
The highlight I think has to be being named Club Women Player of the Year in my first year at the club and the numerous cup finals and playoff finals I have experienced while being a member.
Do you have any advice for the younger players at the Club?
Believe in yourself I guess! Even if others don't, push yourself to become the best you can and you will see the benefits. "What counts is not necessarily the size of the dog in the fight but the size of the fight in the dog". A very influential quote given to me by Donna Finnie that changed my outlook.
