Waterford FC have confirmed two significant boosts to their Women’s Premier Division squad, with defender Dan Burke and full‑back Jess Lawler both committing their futures to the club for the 2026 season.

Burke Returns to Anchor the Blues Backline

Waterford FC have announced that experienced central defender Dan Burke has re‑signed ahead of the upcoming SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division campaign. The 26‑year‑old made 15 appearances across all competitions in 2025 and will once again form a key part of the Blues’ defensive unit at the RSC. Burke joined Waterford ahead of the 2025 season following a standout seven‑year spell with Cork City FC, where she amassed more than 140 competitive appearances and played a pivotal role in the club’s historic 2017 FAI Women’s Cup triumph. Renowned for her composure, tactical intelligence, and leadership, Burke quickly became a stabilising presence in Waterford’s inaugural Women’s Senior League of Ireland season. Her international pedigree—having represented Ireland at WU16, WU17, and WU19 levels—further underscores her value to the squad. Reflecting on her return, Burke said she is eager to build on last year’s foundations:

“I’m so grateful to be back home with the Blues again this season. It’s a very special club to be a part of and I’m looking forward to seeing what success we can bring. It’s an exciting season ahead for us… we want to push on and keep building together as a team. We’re buzzing to get back to the RSC and share another season with our fans.”

Head Coach Gary Hunt welcomed her re‑signing, highlighting her influence both on and off the pitch:

“I am delighted to have Danielle back again for 2026. She brought a great level of experience and maturity to the group… She has become hugely connected to the squad, and players like her only strengthen that bond. I am sure we will continue to see her lead the line, whether in defence or midfield.”

Lawler Commits to Second Season After Breakout Year

Waterford FC have also confirmed that full‑back Jess Lawler has re‑signed for the 2026 season, continuing her rapid rise within the club. Lawler featured in 25 of Waterford’s 26 matches last season, becoming a reliable and energetic presence on the left side of defence. Having joined the club’s U19 academy in 2024, she made the step up to senior football in 2025 and quickly established herself as a first‑team regular. Before arriving in Waterford, Lawler spent two‑and‑a‑half years with Wexford FC, making 24 senior appearances. The 2025 campaign marked her first full season in Blue, and she expressed her excitement at continuing her development:

“I’m really happy to re-sign and continue representing Waterford FC. I’m hungry for the season ahead and ready to give everything, and play my part in helping the team succeed.”

Head Coach Gary Hunt praised her growth and importance to the squad:

“Jess returning gives us more continuity in the group. She had a strong season last year at left full‑back and I am sure she will feature a lot again in 2026. She is still a young player but has already taken on big responsibility. We want to create an environment where she can continue to develop, and I’m looking forward to seeing her kick on this season.”

Building Momentum for 2026

The re‑signings of Burke and Lawler underline Waterford FC’s commitment to stability and growth as they prepare for their second season in the Women’s Premier Division. Both players were central to the club’s debut campaign and are expected to play major roles as the Blues aim to push further up the table in 2026. Would you like this rewritten in a shorter format, or adapted for social media or a club press release?