Those sacrifices propelled Howe’s development at home before chances abroad began to materialize.
After spells with Linfield, Glentoran and Sligo Rovers, her prolific stint at Athlone Town in the League of Ireland Women’s Premier Division attracted attention across the water.
Now at Celtic, she feels she has found the right environment to push her game to the next level.
“As a player, you’re always looking to grow with every training session.
“The tactical side has stepped up a lot, and we’re adjusting to different styles and to how Grant Scott (Celtic head coach) wants us to play, while staying sharp technically.”
Celtic’s attacking philosophy particularly appeals to Howe, and the 14-cap international relishes the chance to express herself in the final third.
“We aim to play an attractive, attack-minded game, and as an attacker, that’s exactly the kind of free-flowing football you want to be part of.
“That freedom to push forward, vary your runs and movements, and drive at defenders really suits my game and helps bring out the best in people.”
She believes that approach brings the best out of her.
“I’ve played under coaches before where it felt almost robotic—this run, that run—but being free to drift into different areas and change your movements makes the whole team more fluid.
“It’s tough to defend against, and it definitely builds your confidence.
“When you’re trusted and encouraged to do that, it gives you real belief.”