Irish International Megan Campbell to Open Girls’ Football Academy in Honour of Co Louth Teen
Ardee News and Sport – Irish International Megan Campbell to Open Girls’ Football Academy in Honour of Co Louth Teen
A heartwarming tribute to a young football talent will be unveiled this weekend as Irish international Megan Campbell officially opens a new girls’ football academy in memory of 13-year-old Zara Murphy. The academy, based at Termonfeckin Celtic FC in Co Louth, will serve as a lasting legacy to Zara, who tragically passed away after falling ill during a soccer match last July.
Zara’s sudden and untimely death shocked the entire footballing community and devastated her family, friends, coaches and teammates. A gifted striker with dreams of one day wearing the green jersey for Ireland, Zara had scored an incredible 27 goals in just half a season for Termonfeckin Celtic FC’s under-13 and under-14 teams.
Now, with the blessing of her family, her coaches and teammates have come together to create the Zara Murphy Academy—a centre of footballing excellence for young girls across County Louth. The aim is to give 300 girls aged between five and nine the opportunity to learn, play, and grow in the sport Zara loved so dearly, all while keeping her memory alive.
The initiative has been entirely funded by the efforts of Zara’s teammates, a testament to the deep bonds she formed through football and the impact she had on those around her.
Megan Campbell, a Drogheda native and Republic of Ireland centre-back who currently plays for London City Lionesses, will cut the ribbon on the academy at an official opening ceremony this Sunday at 3pm at Termonfeckin Celtic FC’s grounds.
Ahead of the event, Campbell spoke emotionally about the significance of the academy and Zara’s enduring influence:
“To open an academy in Zara’s name shows the impact that football has had on Zara’s life, but more importantly of how much of an impact that Zara has had on the footballing community in Termonfeckin and beyond,” she said.
“It will serve as a constant reminder of the amazing and talented young girl that Zara was. For the community of young girls and boys, the academy will serve as a way to play the sport they love every day in her honour—and that is truly something special.”
“I have no doubt that Zara is watching over proudly and supporting her new academy with the best view of all. To be able to give so many young girls and boys the chance to express themselves through a sporting academy such as this and to see the community come together in recognition of Zara’s life is inspiring and important,” Campbell added.
The Zara Murphy Academy is more than just a football programme—it is a powerful tribute to a young life filled with passion, promise and unforgettable talent. Through this new chapter, Zara’s spirit will continue to inspire the next generation of footballers in County Louth and beyond.
