Katie McCabe has taken to Twitter to reveal she is 'honoured' to be selected to play in this Summer's World Cup.
The Arsenal star will lead Ireland out against Australia on July 20th in what will be Ireland's first ever game at an international tournament.
Over 80,000 fans are expected to be in Stadium Australia when Ireland kick-off their campaign against the co-hosts in three week's time.
READ MORE: On a day of high emotion, Vera Pauw briefly shows hers as strain of 'breaking dreams' takes its toll
McCabe will be key to any success Ireland attain at the tournament, and her joy at being selected in the squad is clear to see.
"It’s all starting to sink in. An honour to be selected to represent our country at our first ever WC," she wrote on Twitter.
It was a day of heartache and ecstasy for members of the team as manager Vera Pauw announced her team for this Summer's World Cup.
For some, it was the pinnacle of their careers.
While for others, it was a crushing disappointment.
Pauw herself struggled with the decision and revealed that she had many sleepless nights trying to select her 23-person squad.
Having named a 36-player preliminary squad, the Irish boss had to cut over a dozen players.
Some, like Megan Campbell were injured. While others like Jamie Finn had to make do with being on the standby list.
Finn was perhaps the harshest omission of them all having been a regular feature throughout Ireland's qualification campaign.
Reacting to the news on Twitter, Finn said: “Today has been a historic day for women’s football in Ireland and a day of mixed emotions for me personally.
"People know I wear my heart on my sleeve whenever I play and I will continue to do so going forward.
"Representing your country is the biggest honour anyone can have. I feel so privileged to have been part of this squad since the beginning of our World Cup campaign.
“Elite sport is difficult and sometimes people have unforeseen setbacks. I will continue, as I always have, to work hard representing my country to make my dreams a reality and inspire the next generation of girls to do the same.
“I am grateful to be named as a training player and will continue to play my part as the Republic of Ireland prepare for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
“As always the girls and the staff have my full support and commitment.
“I’d like to thank my family, friends and fans in Ireland and Birmingham for their support today and always.”
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