The History of Stillorgan Hockey Club - how it all began........
The journey of Stillorgan Hockey Club started following an email from Lucas Piccioli [Eastern Development Officer of Irish Hockey Association] in February 2009 informing parents of a hockey training initiative for young girls on waiting lists of South Dublin Hockey clubs. This hockey training consisted of a very well run 6 week course held in St Raphaelas School in Stillorgan in March 2009. The success of the course and the enjoyment of the children encouraged Lucas to progress with the idea that the answer to these long waiting lists was to set up a new club.
A meeting was arranged for May 12th in the Montrose Hotel and 60 interested parents met to hear what was involved in setting up a new club, a task that at first appeared daunting. . Following a very professional presentation and a lot of encouragement from Lucas it was clear that there were 5 parents willing to put their fears to one side and volunteer to take this idea a step further. Although a small number, these parents [Lisa McLoughlin, Imelda Martin, Martina Moran, Nuala Barrow and Paula Axelsson] were enthusiastic, determined and committed to the idea.
Following several more meetings at the Montrose Hotel , with the continued support from Lucas and the perseverance of the parents , Stillorgan Hockey Club was launched. On the 6th September 2009 registration took place at St Raphaelas School. Despite the rain many parents braved the elements to enroll their children for the inaugural season. Since then news of the club continues to spread and the numbers continue to grow. Sr Mary from St Raphaelas School who gave her support initially with the 6 week course back in March has agreed that the pitches at St Raphaelas can be used by the club for the coming season.
At this stage the ground work for Stillorgan Hockey Club has been completed and we have established a strong foundation on which to build and develop a new hockey club. The hope is that the club will create a friendly enthusiastic atmosphere which encourages young girls to enjoy hockey for the great sport it is. The club will concentrate on training children from the age of 6 years to impart a basic knowledge of hockey and to develop the necessary skills . We will also strive to keep the club family focused and hope that parents will contribute positively to either the coaching or social side of things.
Training commenced on the 27th September, under the guidance of experienced head coach Jean McDonnell. Stillorgan Hockey Club committee is proud and excited with the achievement to date and look forward to watching the girls enjoying hockey to the best of their ability. We also look forward to meeting the parents and girls over the coming season and hopefully to seeing the club growing and flourishing.
THANKS FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT!
A meeting was arranged for May 12th in the Montrose Hotel and 60 interested parents met to hear what was involved in setting up a new club, a task that at first appeared daunting. . Following a very professional presentation and a lot of encouragement from Lucas it was clear that there were 5 parents willing to put their fears to one side and volunteer to take this idea a step further. Although a small number, these parents [Lisa McLoughlin, Imelda Martin, Martina Moran, Nuala Barrow and Paula Axelsson] were enthusiastic, determined and committed to the idea.
Following several more meetings at the Montrose Hotel , with the continued support from Lucas and the perseverance of the parents , Stillorgan Hockey Club was launched. On the 6th September 2009 registration took place at St Raphaelas School. Despite the rain many parents braved the elements to enroll their children for the inaugural season. Since then news of the club continues to spread and the numbers continue to grow. Sr Mary from St Raphaelas School who gave her support initially with the 6 week course back in March has agreed that the pitches at St Raphaelas can be used by the club for the coming season.
At this stage the ground work for Stillorgan Hockey Club has been completed and we have established a strong foundation on which to build and develop a new hockey club. The hope is that the club will create a friendly enthusiastic atmosphere which encourages young girls to enjoy hockey for the great sport it is. The club will concentrate on training children from the age of 6 years to impart a basic knowledge of hockey and to develop the necessary skills . We will also strive to keep the club family focused and hope that parents will contribute positively to either the coaching or social side of things.
Training commenced on the 27th September, under the guidance of experienced head coach Jean McDonnell. Stillorgan Hockey Club committee is proud and excited with the achievement to date and look forward to watching the girls enjoying hockey to the best of their ability. We also look forward to meeting the parents and girls over the coming season and hopefully to seeing the club growing and flourishing.
THANKS FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT!
