Kate Toman is hoping to be at the Aviva Stadium for Waterford FC’s Club Orange FAI Cup Final on November 8, even if it means bringing a very special passenger along for the occasion.
The lifelong Blues supporter is currently 37 weeks pregnant, but that has not changed her determination to make the journey to Dublin to watch Waterford take on Derry City.
Speaking on WLR’s Sport Láirge, Kate joked that while the baby could arrive before the final, her plan remains firmly focused on being in the stands.
Her dedication to Waterford FC is clear. A regular at the RSC, Kate says match nights have become a major part of her life, with the atmosphere, friendships and sense of community among the supporters keeping her coming back.
She particularly enjoys the atmosphere created by the Block E supporters, making sure when booking her cup final tickets that she would be close enough to enjoy their contribution without being caught up in the middle of the crowd.
For Kate, supporting Waterford is about much more than the football itself. She describes the club as an addiction, admitting she has checked scores at weddings and even while attending Electric Picnic.
She has also been impressed by the transformation under manager Graham Coughlan, pointing to the increased passion, commitment and determination shown by the players.
Kate believes the defensive performances have been a major part of Waterford’s improvement, highlighting the work of goalkeeper Stevie McMullan, Kevin Long, John Mann and Hayden Cann, alongside the contribution of Benny Couto.
She also reserved particular praise for captain Padraig Amond, whose commitment on and off the pitch has made a lasting impression.
His willingness to acknowledge supporters after games, spend time with young fans and lead by example has made him a hugely popular figure among the Waterford faithful.
Kate says the welcoming nature of the supporters is one of the things that makes Waterford FC special, with new players quickly becoming part of the community.
She believes that connection between the team and the fans has played a significant role in the club’s remarkable season.
Having watched Waterford move from a difficult position in the league to securing seventh place and a place in the FAI Cup Final, Kate admits the turnaround has been difficult to believe.
Asked what it would mean to see Padraig Amond lift the trophy at the Aviva Stadium, she struggled to put it into words.
She expects an emotional occasion, admitting she will probably be in tears when the team walks out onto the pitch.
Even watching the semi-final from home proved difficult, with Kate unable to sit still as she followed the action.
Now, with the biggest match of the season approaching, she is preparing for what promises to be an unforgettable day for Waterford supporters.
And while her partner Eoin may be more interested in Blackpool, Kate’s message ahead of November 8 is simple.
Come on the Blues.
WLR’s live coverage begins at 2.30 pm, with Ray Scott, former Waterford manager Tommy Griffin and Blues legend Pascal Keane bringing listeners all the action, with thanks to John Murphy Carpets
Competition: Club Orange FAI Cup Final 2026
Kick-off – 3:00 pm
Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin.
Waterford FC v Derry City – Live on WLR
Waterford FC Coverage on WLR is thanks to John Murphy Carpets
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