On Saturday the 21st of January, the Point Village on Ice hosted the 2015 All Ireland hockey tournament. Starting bright and early teams from Cork, Kilkenny, Belfast, and Dublin made the journey for the final day of ice in Dublin. A total of 120 players took part on the day.
Starting off the tournament was the 12 and Under ‘B’ Division. Belfast took the final with a spirited game versus Kilkenny. It was a great effort all around from our youngest kids.
Next up was the 12 and Under ‘A’ Division. This was the by far the the closest division on the day. It literally came down to the final shot. Belfast edged out Cork in a penalty shoot-out in the final. Both teams deserve credit for a great display of hockey.
As morning turned to the afternoon the 13 and Over ‘B’ Division kicked off. It came down to the final game of the preliminary round to decide the final. Dublin faced off against Belfast in the final. It was a battle of goalies as both respective keepers played exceptionally well. Belfast squeezed out the victory in the end.
For the finale, the 13 and Over ‘A’ Division was the showcase of talent. After a hard fought preliminary round Cork and Dublin battled it out in the final. Cork were a well disciplined team in the final. Dublin battled with everything they had but the Cork keeper stood strong and Cork took home the honors.
The IIHA would like to congratulate all the players who participated. The future looks bright for hockey in Ireland!!!
The IIHA would also like to thank Joe, Darren, Guntars, Ian, and all the rest of the staff at the Point Village on Ice for all their help on the day and for a great season overall this year.
We would also like to thank Mick Cummins, from the Kilkenny Storm, for taking the team photos. Ger Duffy, Bill Reilly, and Anne Marie Reilly for keeping everything running smoothly throughout the day. To all the coaches and parents for your dedication to the kids and the sport they love.
Thank you all for your support and spirit on the day and we are looking forward to the 2016 All-Ireland already!