Leinster Hockey Association has launched a new three-year strategy plan for 2023 – 2026.
There are over forty hockey clubs in Leinster with more than two hundred and seventy competitions running year-round. This new strategy is a carefully designed approach to build the game of hockey across the province.
Building participation numbers amongst boys and men across both clubs and schools is a key part of the strategy, while continuing to support the rise in female participation.
Hockey has had huge success in attracting women and girls to the game and is one of the few team sports that is played by more female than male players.
A pivotal part of this strategy will be to provide more boys/men’s teams across Leinster along with increased coaching and officiating opportunities.
There will be a focus on ensuring there is the right mix of competition structures and game formats to drive growth as well as the creation of programmes to increase the numbers exposed to hockey activity.
There is a planned increase in the number of Development Officers, an improved pathway for match officials as well as an increase in the number of qualified coaches across the game.
The new strategy will also see Leinster Hockey develop specific programmes to increase accessibility and to be a leader in equity, diversity and inclusion ensuring the sport delivers a memorable experience for all.
There is a proposed expansion of the current Hockey ID programme for those with intellectual disabilities.
The new strategy aims to add to the already existing pitches and training areas across the province. Some areas within the province have access to first class facilities enabling players to engage in high level sport week in week out and Leinster Hockey is aiming to help more clubs and schools improve facilities as part of the new Strategic Plan so everyone involved in the game can reach their full potential.
To do this Leinster Hockey will carry out a review of facilities across Leinster and identify a planned programme of development of new and upgrading of existing facilities. Leinster will also provide practical supports to clubs to assist in their infrastructure development including advice on access to grants for facility development plans.
“I am thrilled to announce the new Leinster Hockey strategy that will run through 2023 to 2026,” said Chair David Curran.
“We have thought carefully to look at every aspect of Leinster Hockey to get more people involved in the game at both schools and club level. Focused growth around the number of schools who participate in hockey will continue to be a key priority as we also look to foster links between schools and clubs.”
“We are proud that 70% of the Leinster hockey players play in women and girls’ competitions,” added Fiona Walshe, Development Chair.
“Sport Ireland’s latest research has shown that just 7% of girls aged 14-15 years meet the recommended physical activity levels and for this reason it is vital that we continue to make hockey a welcoming place for everyone and continue the activity that we are running to retain and grow the number of girls in the sport.”
