The 2008 Connacht Regional Girls Mini-Hockey Festival was held in Mervue, Galway, on Sun. Nov 30th last.
23 teams took part in the blitz & to a player, they all thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Clubs travelled from Athlone & Sligo, and the locals were well represented by Knocknacarra, Galway & Greenfields hockey clubs. Refreshments, provided by parents from Greenfields H.C., were served in the clubhouse. & greatly appreciated by all, on such a chilly day. The festival atmosphere was completed by a team of face-painters, who delivered on the most challenging of orders!
The format of 6-aside on a quarter pitch worked particularly well with these U10’s & U12’s, & almost every team played 5 matches. Each match was ably umpired by players from Greenfields U16 panel – without a doubt, the future of Connacht umpiring is safe! The emphasis of the day was on participation, & the highlight for many players was the attendance at the festival of six (out of nine) Irish hockey representatives, all from Connacht.
Greenfields President Norma McCambridge was lavish in her praise of all volunteers who helped out on the day. A special thanks was extended to Greenfields Secretary Catherine Moore, & Underage Co-ordinator Cliona Kennedy, for the trojian work they put in, to ensure the festival ran smoothly. A truly memorable day was had by all – long may they continue!
