Vikki Wall is a two-time All-Ireland winner with the Meath senior football team, and was an All-Star and player of the year after the first of those in 2021. She has also played Aussie rules football with North Melbourne, helping them to their first women’s Grand Final victory last year, and represented Ireland at Rugby Sevens.
Are you a saver or a spender?
I want to say saver but there is definitely a sprinkle of spender there, too. I allow myself some wiggle room for spending when saving money has been completed for each month. I am partial to an online delivery, and I wouldn’t like to calculate how much I spend on shoes each year. My justification is that I get great wear out of each pair – sometimes, I change shoes three times a day.
What was the first job you received money for, and how much were you paid?
I reckon it was refereeing a few underage games, under-10s/under-12s. I got about €30 per game. That probably didn’t come close to covering my parents’ petrol money driving me to and from the games, but it went straight into my pocket.
Do you shop around for better value?
The majority of the time I would, especially with my food shop. I’m also a big fan of a bargain. I place emphasis on cost-per-wear with certain things, however, so I don’t mind spending money on things if I know how often I will use them. You know, boots, runners – all the good stuff.
What has been your most extravagant purchase, and how much did it cost?
When they were in their prime, I purchased a pair of Balenciaga runners for about €700. Not the wisest decision, perhaps, but you know, cost-per-wear…
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
The wearable performance tracker Whoop. I put off buying it for a while but would now be lost without it. It has a yearly subscription base that I won’t have to think twice about renewing.
Is there anything you regret spending money on?
I would have been fond of a random instrument when I was younger. The didgeridoo and bongo don’t get much airtime now.
Do you haggle over prices?
I certainly wouldn’t be the biggest haggler of prices in my family. That crown lies elsewhere, but maybe on holiday, if I’m buying a hat or a towel, I’ll ask for a few cent off.
Do you invest in shares and/or cryptocurrency?
A very small amount in shares, to be honest, as I wouldn’t have a huge amount of knowledge in the area.
Do you have a retirement or pension plan?
Yes, but answering these questions has prompted me to look into that a bit more. I know I have something loosely set up and a superannuation in Australia. My dad is the go-to in the house for all financial queries – I think he might be getting some additional time in his calendar for a catch-up.
What was the last thing you bought and was it good value for money?
My last purchase was a couch from Jysk. It was great value until it took at least four hours to build, and it caused a few arguments. Post-build, it’s slowly earning its value back.
Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
I am in the process of just that at the moment. I am a big coffee fan and have probably been spending a bit too much on the coconut flat whites. I’m debating between a Sage or De Longhi. I’ve nearly bitten the bullet a few times but I’ve been looking at the different functions and machine types trying to figure out which one I’m going to commit to. Can I get back to you on that one?
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Have you ever lost money?
Thankfully not a significant amount, but I probably have lost one of everything else in my life. I’ve gotten better, but losing coats, jackets, and anything made of material isn’t out of character.
Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?
I am not and have never really been bar a bit of craic on big events with friends or a Super Bowl bet. No winnings to report, unfortunately.
Should county GAA players be paid to play?
I think there is definitely room for better minimum standards across the board, for sure. In terms of remuneration, it’s not the reason people commit to their counties and the privilege of playing with them, but yes, I think there is room for players to be paid in some capacity. Whether it’s from ticket sales, and so on, I’m not sure.
What is your best habit when it comes to money? And your worst?
My worst habit would be an impulse buy here or there. My best habit would be using the “spare change” function on Revolut. It’s a great way to save up extra money for a holiday or something else in the background without you noticing.
How much money do you have on you now?
I have €80. It has been in my purse since last August. Before I went back to Australia, I completely forgot about it and got a nice surprise several weeks ago when I found it. I’ll save it for a rainy day.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
