Ireland hooker Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald has discovered that the secret to playing her best rugby is simple: enjoy the ride. After a decade-long journey filled with highs, lows, and everything in between, the 32-year-old says embracing the game with a fresh perspective "has made me play better."
Moloney-MacDonald recently earned her 50th cap for Ireland during the opening match of the 2026 Women's Six Nations against England, a milestone that was a long time coming. She made her international debut back in 2015, but a spell on the sidelines between 2022 and 2024 meant she had to wait longer than most to reach that half-century mark.
Rather than dwelling on the setbacks, the experienced hooker feels "privileged to experience it all." Reflecting on the ups and downs of her career with the women's team, she believes the squad is now in a "really strong place" both on and off the pitch.
"It makes me enjoy this a lot more and understand how lucky we are," Moloney-MacDonald told the Ireland Rugby Social podcast. "I'm maybe one of the only ones in the current squad who has been through all the different cycles in the last 10-11 years of Irish rugby and women's rugby in general. Yes, I compete and compete hard, but I understand how lucky I am and it should be fun. I'm here to enjoy rugby now, and that's made me play better."
Her journey hasn't just been about personal milestones—it's also been about witnessing the growth of the sport. From playing in front of record crowds at Twickenham to seeing the culture of the squad evolve, Moloney-MacDonald credits former co-captains Edel McMahon and Sam Monaghan for laying a strong foundation during her absence. "They embedded a groundwork that doesn't need to be mentioned anymore. The squad are a brilliant group of people," she added.
For fans of the women's game, Moloney-MacDonald's story is a reminder that resilience and a positive mindset can transform a career. Whether you're lacing up your boots for a club match or cheering from the stands, her message is clear: rugby is meant to be enjoyed. And when you do, the results often follow.