The IIHA is currently in the process of setting up its first junior development program. It is the IIHA’s intention to use this as a teaching & development process in preparing our youth players for higher levels of play. This program will be multi-faceted by using on-ice, off-ice, and classroom instruction. This program is open to all players residing in Ireland, regardless of nationality. To start we will be setting up U12 and U14 teams. If there is enough interest we will also look to set up U16 and U10 teams.
By setting up these teams the IIHA will require that all players still maintain their participation with the junior clubs. Development has many levels, and we feel that participation with junior clubs is key to maintaining proper developmental skills in hockey.
The IIHA will be holding to assessment training sessions for our teams. The first will be held at Blanchardstown on Ice on Saturday the 10th of January. We will split this session in to two parts. For players of U12 age, training will begin at 8 a.m. sharp. We ask that all players arrive promptly by 7:15 a.m. The next session for players aged 12 and over will begin at 9 a.m. sharp. We ask that all players arrive no later than 8:15 a.m.
The second assessment training session will be held in Cork at the end of January. Time and date will be confirmed soon and we will post as soon as confirmation is received.
These sessions are open to all, regardless of registration status. If a player is chosen for a team then registration with the IIHA will be a requirement.
It is the IIHA’s intention that these teams will be of little to no cost for the players. As we progress, there may be some charges incurred in the cost of playing games.
We look forward to seeing all the players and parents at the rinks and are excited at the prospect of what we can all achieve in this New Year.