Wolves Women captain Helen Dermody has revealed the exciting news that she is pregnant with her first child.
The midfielder has been out of action with a knee injury she picked up at the end of September, but will now miss the remainder of the season as she and her partner, Rich, prepare for their new arrival expected in March 2024.
Dermody recently shared the news with players and staff at Compton Park and will continue her recovery from injury with the medical team, while being supported with her pregnancy in the coming months.
Speaking on her news, Dermody said: “It’s really exciting. It was a bit of a shock at first but now we’ve got used to it, we are very excited.
“It’s the unknown because I’ve never been through it before. I’ve got nieces and nephews, but you can hand them back! To be expecting our first child, we’re both really excited about it.”
Dermody has explained that she had to remain tight-lipped until the time was right to tell the rest of the squad, but admits that the reaction to the news has been better than she could ever imagine.
“We kept it quiet until we got our first scan,” Dermody continued. “I think that’s the best way to do it just in case anything is wrong.
“I told the physio from a medical point of view. In a way, it was lucky because I’ve been injured with my knee and that’s stopped me playing. I told Macca (Dan McNamara) and then the girls the following session.
“To be honest, they’ve all been really supportive and really excited for us. I couldn’t have asked for it to go any better.
“There have been constant check-ins and everyone’s making sure I’m ok and things like that.”
And despite admitting there is no immediate pressure on a return to football following the birth, the Old Gold captain has stressed that her influence off the field will remain constant and she is prepared to support the team throughout her time away from the action.
“I’m still around training and have been doing rehab for my knee. I’m in with the girls, going to the games and everything’s been the same pretty much. I’m just not training with the girls like I was before.
“I wouldn’t say there’s any pressure on returning. If it happens, it happens. I’ll just have to see how the birth goes and the recovery after it.
“It’s going to be a case of understanding when to take time away for myself and my family and getting used to not being around the girls as much when it gets nearer the time.
“I want to be involved as much as I can and still be around supporting the girls and helping where I can.
“If I’m doing something, I’m committed. I’ll always be there for the girls whether they want to text, ring me or if I’m there in person – I’ll always be there to support them and Macca if needs be.”
Everyone at Wolves sends Helen and Rich their warm congratulations ahead of the new addition to the pack.
