Praise for Hockey Club's Euro event

Junior McCrum, Mr Robin McLoughlin (Banbridge Academy Principal), President Roger Martin and Carla Lockhart MLA

The European Hockey League descended on the club over the weekend of 7-9th October with many of Europe’s top clubs including the current European club champions, SV Kampong from Holland, taking part. Adding to the excitement of the competition was the participation of the host clubs 1st XI men’s team.

DUP MLA Carla Lockhart said: “This is a great honour for Banbridge Hockey Club to host and take part in a world class event. Upper Bann is the unofficial home of hockey with great clubs in Banbridge, Lurgan and Portadown.

“I want to express my admiration and congratulation to the club president Roger Martin, committee and all those volunteers who gave up their time to make this such a successful event. I have been engaged with the club for some time with regard to improved facilities and engaged with the Executive for financial assistance. A new playing surface is the priority and I was delighted that the Communities Minister Paul Givan could attend on Saturday morning and see for himself need of upgraded facilities.

Attending the European Hockey League Round 1 at Havelock Park were Cllr Glenn Barr Chairperson of the Council Sports and Leisure Committee, Past President Norman Armstrong, Jo-Anne Dobson MLA and Club Patron Eric Walker.

“To all at the club who worked so hard to showcase this event I commend you and commit to assisting you further going forward.”

UUO MLA Jo-Anne Dobson also praised the Club Committee, members and team for “putting Banbridge on the World Stage by hosting the prestigious European Hockey League Championships”.

“I send my warmest congratulations to everyone at Banbridge Hockey Club and especially Club President Roger Martin and Vice President Sheree Totten for all their hard work and determination to get everything just right.

“It was lovely hear so much high praise for Banbridge and great to see the army of volunteers from across the town helping to make the weekend of events run smoothly and give our international visitors a warm Banbridge welcome!

“I look forward to seeing Havelock Park becoming the natural choice for prestigious Hockey tournaments and will continue to support the Club in any way I can to see funding opportunities grasped and pitch improvements made as they look to the future with confidence.”

Councillor Glenn Barr said: “On the pitch and off the pitch Banbridge Hockey Club have performed to the highest of the levels.”