Reception held to honour champions Lisnagarvey HC

Pictured with the EY League Trophy and Champions Cup are: (l-r) Michael Bowden, President of Lisnagarvey Hockey Club; Alderman Paul Porter, former Chairman of the Council's Leisure & Community Development Committee; Jonny Bell, Captain of the winning 1st XI team; the former Mayor, Councillor Thomas Beckett and Bobby Howard, Patron of Lisnagarvey Hockey Club.

The reception was hosted by the former Mayor, Councillor Thomas Beckett and Alderman Paul Porter, former Chairman of the Council’s Leisure and Community Development Committee.

Speaking about this outstanding achievement, the Mayor said: “I had the privilege of attending the final and the atmosphere was fantastic when Lisnagarvey scored its third goal to win the league.

“Throughout the tournament the players and their coaches showed commitment, skill and determination, and I’d like to congratulate the whole squad on their victory.”

The Mens Lisnagarvey 1st XI hockey team, which recently won the inaugural EY Hockey League and the associated Champions Trophy are pictured at a reception held in Lagan Valley Island.

The top scorer in the 2016 season was Timmy Cockram.

Alderman Paul Porter added: “I am delighted to be able to publicly acknowledge the success of the Lisnagarvey 1st XI under the captaincy of Jonny Bell.

“The strong track record of the Lisnagarvey team is evident as the team secured 60 goals during the competition.

“By winning the league, Lisnagarvey has qualified for next season’s Euro Hockey League and I am sure that they will continue to go from strength to strength next season.”

The current Irish Senior Internationals in the team include: Jonny Bell, James Lorimer, Paul Gleghorne, Sean Murray, Mikie Watt and Neal Glassey.

The council also congratulated Lisnagarvey Hockey Club Coach Errol Lutton on being awarded the Club Performance Coach of the Year by Ulster Hockey for his outstanding work guiding this team to the EYHL title in its inaugural season.