Imagine being miles from home, battling a mid-season injury, and still pushing through to perform at your best. That’s Orla O’Dwyer, a rising star with the Brisbane Lions in AFLW and the first Irish player to receive All-Australian honours in over a decade. Orla shares her story—from navigating a recent shoulder injury to the camaraderie with fellow Irish players that keeps her grounded.

📌 TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 Introduction and Orla’s Recent Shoulder Injury

5:38 Challenges of a Short AFLW Season and Recovery

9:32 Team Dynamics, Consistency, and Building Relationships

13:21 Transition to Australian Football and Irish Culture Abroad

18:45 Community Among Irish Athletes in the AFLW

23:10 Unique Fitness and Training Approaches of Irish Players

27:54 Balancing Athletic Career with Life and Future Planning

35:19 AFLW Game Intensity, Physicality, and Mentality

42:09 Reflections on Playing Against Irish Teammates and Role Model Impact

50:00 Orla’s Connection to Home and Future in Ireland

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About Our Guest

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Orla O’Dwyer is an Irish AFLW star playing for the Brisbane Lions. A former Gaelic footballer, she became the first Irish AFLW player to earn All-Australian honors in 2022 and was a pivotal player in the Lions’ 2021 premiership win. Known for her agility and athleticism, Orla is a consistent performer in the midfield and a leader on the field. Her achievements highlight her influence in AFLW and her impact as an international player.
• Brisbane Lions: (https://www.lions.com.au/players/2076/orla-o-dwyer/)
• Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/orlaodwyer98/)

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About Our Host

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Peter Wright is a strength and conditioning coach and performance consultant dedicated to helping athletes unlock their full potential. As the host of The Petey Performance Podcast, Peter dives deep into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches, sharing valuable insights on athletic training, performance enhancement, and sports science. His passion for sports and commitment to excellence make his podcast a go-to resource for anyone looking to elevate their game.

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Produced by:⁠ Dreamers Media Pty Ltd⁠

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Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Petey Performance Podcast, where we delve into the minds and methods of elite athletes and coaches. Stay connected for more podcasts on reaching your peak performance!