North Down championing Inclusive Sport for a second year

North Down Hockey Club has proudly delivered its Inclusion Hockey programme for the second consecutive year, offering a welcoming and accessible environment for young people of all abilities to enjoy the sport.

The free six-week initiative funded by an Ards and North Down Sports Grant and led by dedicated players and coaches from the club, supported 20 participants, including children and young adults with a range of disabilities from learning, sensory and physical needs.

Each session was thoughtfully tailored to meet the abilities of those taking part, ensuring that every individual could engage, develop skills and most importantly, have fun in a safe and supportive setting. From mastering dribbling to celebrating goals and enjoying everything from obstacle courses to hockey rounders and parachute games, the enjoyment was clear for all to see.

This programme reflects North Down Hockey Club’s continued commitment to making sport inclusive and open to all, helping to build confidence, friendships and a sense of community through hockey.

As we look ahead to our 130th anniversary next year, we were honoured to mark the end of the programme with a very special presentation. Three incredible women who helped shape the history of North Down Hockey Club were invited to present medals and certificates to the young players who completed the course: Beth Galloway, our first Ladies Secretary, Irene Morrison, our first Ladies Captain and June Robinson, a member of the team that won our first Ladies trophy in 1964/65. A particularly touching moment came when June Robinson presented a medal to her grandson, Rhys, who took part in the programme.

We are so grateful to all the amazing young players and their families who attended, their enthusiasm was incredible. A huge thank you goes to Maxine Taylor, Cara McConnell, Claire Smyth, and all of our fantastic coaches for their hard work and dedication.