Katie McCabe is more than just a talented footballer - she's a passionate individual who wears her heart on her sleeve. The 30-year-old full-back has been with Arsenal since 2011 and has won numerous titles, but it was the team's Champions League victory over Barcelona that made her moment of glory truly unforgettable.
The Irish midfielder remembers every detail of that night, from singing her own chant in front of a crowd of 10,000 to getting stuck into a rendition of Stina Blackstenius's song, Karma Chameleon. It was a performance that showcased her confidence and energy on the pitch, qualities that have made her an integral part of Arsenal's success.
However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for McCabe after the final whistle. The post-match celebrations were filled with jokes about her singing, which left her cringing in embarrassment. "I got so much stick for that," she admits. Despite this, she was determined to make a comeback and started working on her recovery strategies.
"We worked out everything we can do to get back on top," McCabe explains. "It's all about preparation. I get my prep done early in the week as that's what I need to do so that I'm performing at my best level." This dedication has paid off, with the midfielder becoming a player-of-the-match performance just six days after the final.
McCabe credits her intense training schedule and recovery strategies for her consistency on the pitch. She also speaks highly of Arsenal's facilities and staff, which have supported her in achieving her goals. Her reputation as being fiery on the pitch has often overshadowed her qualities as a player, with many focusing on her disciplinary record. However, McCabe sees herself as simply passionate about winning and giving 100% effort.
"We are doing all the right things," she says of Arsenal's current form. "We're getting into really good areas and being productive in what we're trying to do." The team faces a tough challenge in closing the gap on leaders Manchester City, but McCabe remains optimistic. "You never know in the WSL," she says. "Especially this year, there are teams taking points off everybody... We want to compete for all the trophies and that's going to be a tough ask."
For now, McCabe is focusing on the present, driven by her passion for football and her desire to win with Arsenal.
The Irish midfielder remembers every detail of that night, from singing her own chant in front of a crowd of 10,000 to getting stuck into a rendition of Stina Blackstenius's song, Karma Chameleon. It was a performance that showcased her confidence and energy on the pitch, qualities that have made her an integral part of Arsenal's success.
However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for McCabe after the final whistle. The post-match celebrations were filled with jokes about her singing, which left her cringing in embarrassment. "I got so much stick for that," she admits. Despite this, she was determined to make a comeback and started working on her recovery strategies.
"We worked out everything we can do to get back on top," McCabe explains. "It's all about preparation. I get my prep done early in the week as that's what I need to do so that I'm performing at my best level." This dedication has paid off, with the midfielder becoming a player-of-the-match performance just six days after the final.
McCabe credits her intense training schedule and recovery strategies for her consistency on the pitch. She also speaks highly of Arsenal's facilities and staff, which have supported her in achieving her goals. Her reputation as being fiery on the pitch has often overshadowed her qualities as a player, with many focusing on her disciplinary record. However, McCabe sees herself as simply passionate about winning and giving 100% effort.
"We are doing all the right things," she says of Arsenal's current form. "We're getting into really good areas and being productive in what we're trying to do." The team faces a tough challenge in closing the gap on leaders Manchester City, but McCabe remains optimistic. "You never know in the WSL," she says. "Especially this year, there are teams taking points off everybody... We want to compete for all the trophies and that's going to be a tough ask."
For now, McCabe is focusing on the present, driven by her passion for football and her desire to win with Arsenal.