McMinn firmly at the helm!
North Down Hockey Club are delighted to announce the signing of Robbie McMinn as Head Coach, for the Ladies 1st XI squad for the 2025/26 season.
Robbie has formally taken on the role of Head Coach for North Down Ladies 1st XI for the 2025/26 season following his involvement with the squad since November 2024. Robbie has been helping run training sessions and attending matches where possible while balancing his duties as an Assistant Referee in the NIFL Championship; a role he has held for the past three seasons, during which he has officiated two NI Finals at the National Stadium.
Robbie has already shown his commitment to the development of women’s hockey and has extensive coaching experience, having previously guided Lurgan Ladies from August 2015 to November 2021. During his tenure, Robbie led the team to achieve remarkable success, securing four consecutive Premier League titles in their first four seasons, reaching the Denman Shield final in his debut season. Robbie’s leadership fostered a competitive spirit that characterised the squad and drove their success.
In addition to his club coaching, Robbie served as the coach for the Ulster U18 Girls, where he achieved notable accolades including a bronze medal at the UK School Games in 2017 and an Inter-Pros victory at Stormont. Under his guidance, the team won gold at the UK School Games in 2018 and also secured series victories against Scotland and Wales in consecutive years.
Robbie’s coaching journey began in men’s hockey, where he found success with his own home club, Newry Olympic.
From 2006-2008 he coached Bangor to 6th place and an Anderson Cup semi final.
He then coached Armagh Men from 2009 to 2012 securing a place in the Linden Cup Final in his first season, securing the clubs highest place finish of 4th place in the Premier League in his second season and then maintaining their league status after a playoff win.
He then spent three seasons at Kilkeel, where they finished in 6th place twice, qualified for an Irish Senior Cup Quarter Final & finished runner-up in the Anderson Super 9s.
This continued success across multiple seasons, showcase his exceptional ability to elevate team performance and foster a winning mentality.
As Robbie embarks on this new chapter with North Down Ladies, he has expressed his excitement to work with the squad and build upon the foundations he has set over the past few months. Despite North Down’s disappointment of relegation this season, he recognises the talent and potential within the squad and enjoys their positive energy. His vision for the upcoming season includes a focus on physical conditioning and fast-paced, attacking hockey, and is looking for players in both defence and attack, to be adaptable and to contribute in various positions and roles. Aware that there will be a lot of expectation to go straight back into Senior 1 he is ready to lead the team with passion, determination, and a commitment to excellence ensuring the squad reach their full potential!
…… and over time climb their way back to the Premier League.