What is HookedforLife?

Leinster Hockey has proudly adopted the HookedforLife programme developed by the Irish Hockey Association (IHA). This initiative is a vital resource for everyone involved in hockey—from players and coaches to parents and administrators.

The goal of HookedforLife is simple: to recruit, engage, develop, and retain players by creating a fun, inclusive, and structured hockey experience for all ages and abilities.

The Key Principles of HookedforLife

The programme is built on five core principles:

1.    A Clear, Holistic Pathway

A straightforward, easy-to-follow roadmap that supports both grassroots participation and high-performance development.

2.    Player-Centred Focus

Emphasising the joy and benefits of team sport, where each player’s experience matters.

3.    Fun & Enjoyment

Fostering a lifelong love for hockey by balancing what players want and what they need.

4.    Quality Coaching at All Levels
Ensuring coaching is both engaging and effective, no matter the age or ability.

5.    Accessible & Understandable for All

Designed so that players, parents, and newcomers can easily understand and navigate the hockey journey.

The Three Pillars of HookedforLife

The programme centres around three fundamental elements:

•    The Player – Meeting each player’s needs, motivations, and goals.

•    The Coach – Equipping coaches to deliver age-appropriate and meaningful experiences.

•    The Game – Adapting game formats that suit player development and enjoyment.

By putting the player at the heart of the model, HookedforLife ensures every training session and match contributes to a positive, supportive, and progressive hockey experience.

Game Phases

HookedforLife introduces tailored game formats across three phases to ensure development in a structured yet enjoyable way:

•    Phase One – Fun 4s

•    Phase Two – Super 6s

•    Phase Three – Extreme 8s

These phases gradually introduce players to physical, technical, and tactical elements in a way that’s exciting and age-appropriate.

Hooked4Life Downloads

To support the programme, a variety of helpful resources are available:.  In addition the IHA regularly run courses which have been designed around each of the hookedforLife modules.

Long Term Player Development Model  Click Here

Hooke4Life Detailed Overview  Click Here

Hooked4Life Player Pathway  Click Here

Hooked4Life Coach Pathway  Click Here

Hooked on Fun  Click Here

 Phase One - Fun 4s  Click Here

Phase Two - Super 6s  Click Here

Phase Three - Extreme 8's  Click Here

Hooked on Hockey Hexagon Click Here

Updated 17/07/2025