"We're on the rise!" Portadown Hockey Clubs' inspiring message to Minister.
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A recent visit by the Minister for Communities to Edenvilla Multi Sports Pitch was organised by Carla Lockhart, M.P. and saw a range of stakeholders make the case for improved facilities on the site.
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Hide AdHockey Ireland Pathways Manager Mick McKinnon explained that Portadown players would benefit from a new water-based hockey pitch, allowing them to continue their experiences of international hockey.
Both clubs have current representatives at U16, U18 and even at Masters age-groups! The Principal of Craigavon SHS, Ruth Harkness was in attendance to lend her school's support for enhanced facilities which she emphasised would benefit the school and the wider community.
The President of Portadown Ladies, Alison Thompson, herself a former senior Irish International hockey player, said the success of hockey in Portadown in recent years was simply phenomenal.
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Hide Ad“NI U15 champions for three years in a row, All Ireland Champions and playing in European competition, these Portadown teams have inspired a new generation of players, and many are now proudly representing their Province and their nation.
"We have waiting lists for players to join and have added two senior teams in recent years. Our problem is the pitch is at maximum capacity for peak times and we are having to use pitches in Lurgan to fulfil some ‘home’ fixtures.”
DUP representatives Carla Lockhart, Lavelle McIlwrath, Paul Greenfield and Diane Dodds all backed the calls for investment in the facility and the community is looking forward to a positive outcome from the meeting.