What is Hockey ID?
Hockey ID is an adapted version of hockey specifically designed for players with an intellectual disability. It’s all about creating a fun, inclusive, and flexible environment where everyone can enjoy the game and develop their skills.
How Long Has Hockey ID Been Played in Ireland?
Three Rock Rovers HC was the first club in Ireland to introduce a Hockey ID programme, launching it four years ago. Since then, the initiative has grown globally, with over 20 countries across four continents now running Hockey ID programmes.
Game Format
The format of Hockey ID is designed to be flexible and accessible:
• The focus is on enjoyment and participation.
• Many groups begin with a 3v3 format in a small space (such as 1/8 of an outdoor pitch or 1/2 an indoor pitch).
• As players progress, they can move to an 8v8 format on a 1/4 or 1/2 pitch, with the option to include a goalkeeper.
Starting a Hockey ID Programme
If your club is interested in launching a Hockey ID programme, we are here to support is you every step of the way. Additionally, your Local Sports Partnership (LSP) has a Sport Inclusion Disability Officer (SIDO) whose role is to encourage and support participation in sport and physical activity among individuals with disabilities in the community.
You can find more information about the SIDO role and contact details for your local area [here].
In November 2022, CARA launched the Xcessible Club Toolkit for Sports Clubs. The toolkit will empower sports clubs to positively and meaningfully provide opportunities for people with disabilities - Click Here
What clubs are currently running Hockey ID Programmes in Leinster?
Club/Team Name | Training Day/Time/Where | Contact | Contact Details |
Avoca HC/All Stars | Mon 6-7pm, Newpark Comp | Patricia Martin | hockeyid@avocahockeyclub.ie |
Botanic HC/Blitzers | Wed 6.30pm, Holy Faith Glasnevin | Ann Murray | botanicblitzers@gmail.com |
Bray HC/Brayvers | Sundays 5-6pm, Loreto Bray | Elaine Attridge | hockeyid@brayhockeyclub.ie |
Kilkenny HC/Cool Cats | TBC/TBC | Niamh Spratt OShea | hockeyclubkilkennyladies@gmail.com |
Loreto HC/Lions | Tues 6.15pm, Loreto Beaufort | Kate | Loretolionshockey@gmail.com |
Monkstown HC/Strikers | Tues 7-8pm, Rathdown School | Ruby Morrow | monkstowcommittee@gmail.com |
Railway Union HC/Blazers | Thurs, 5.30p, RUHC Park Ave | Margaret Shaw | RUrailblazers@gmail.com |
Skerries HC/Super Troopers | Sun, 10-11am, Skerries Comm Ctr | Orla Owens | shcdisabilityofficer@gmail.com |
Three Rock Rovers HC/Rockets | Tues, 6.30pm, TRRHC Grange Rd | Siobhán Madely | shivmade@msn.com |
Wicklow HC/Vikings | Wed, 5.30pm, East Glendalough SS | Klaas Jan de Vries | coaching@wicklowhockeyclub.ie |
If your club is interested in starting a Hockey ID Programme please contact (inclusion@hockey.ie) or Claire Kelly (admin@leinsterhockey.ie). Each Local Sports Partnership (LSP) also have Sport Inclusion Disability Officers. The role of the SIDO is to encourage and enable individuals with disabilities to be active participants in sport, physical activity and physical education in their local area. Information on the role of the SIDO and contact details for each LSP can be found on this link - CLICK HERE
Disability Inclusion Training
Many Local Sports Partnerships also offer Disability Inclusion Training Courses in collaboration with the CARA National APA Centre. These courses are ideal for:
• Coaches
• Instructors
• Sports leaders
• Teachers
• Parents and volunteers
• Anyone involved in sport for people with disabilities
Participants receive a Coaching Ireland/CARA APA Centre award and a resource pack upon completion. These courses are offered throughout the year—contact your LSP for more information.
Updated 17th July 2025