The Leinster U18 Girls programme brings together some of the top young players from clubs and schools across the province, providing them with the opportunity to train, compete and represent Leinster throughout the season.
The programme culminates in the annual Interprovincial Tournament, which takes place each August and sees Leinster compete against Leinster South, Ulster, Munster and Connacht over three action-packed days of hockey. The tournament is one of the standout events in the Irish hockey calendar, attracting large crowds and showcasing some of the top underage talent from across the country.
Many players progress into the U18 programme following their involvement with the Leinster U16 teams, while additional players are also identified and invited through schools and clubs across the province. The programme provides regular development opportunities, training sessions and assessment matches throughout the season. Beginning in October, players train consistently across the year as they work towards selection for the final Interprovincial squad.
A major highlight of the programme is the annual trip to the prestigious Hague Tournament in the Netherlands. The tournament provides players with the opportunity to compete against elite European opposition while also creating lasting memories and friendships off the pitch. This season once again proved to be a hugely memorable experience for players, staff and families involved.
Representing Leinster at Interprovincial level is a huge achievement and one of the highlights of the player pathway.
As always, we would like to sincerely thank our dedicated Development Programme sponsor, AerCap. Their continued support of the Leinster Hockey Development Programme allows us to continually grow, improve and enhance opportunities for young players across the province, while helping strengthen the player pathway year on year.
Coaching Staff
Head Coach: Rory Treacy
Rory is currently in his second season as Head Coach of the Leinster U18 Girls squad.
He has held a number of coaching roles within hockey, most recently as Women’s 1st Team Coach at Dublin University Hockey Club and Head of Junior Coaching at Pembroke Wanderers Hockey Club, where he also continues to play senior hockey.
Manager: Freda Canavan
Freda is the Manager of the Leinster U18 Girls and has been involved with numerous Leinster and Ireland underage teams throughout the years, alongside her involvement with her home club, Muckross Hockey Club.
She plays a key role in supporting both the management team and players throughout the representative hockey environment, helping players navigate the demands and experiences that come with high-level underage sport.
Assistant Coach: Fiona Connery
Fiona has been involved in Leinster Hockey for a number of years and is currently Assistant Coach of the Leinster U18 Girls squad.
A former Irish international, Fiona earned over 50 senior international caps between 2003 and 2007 while representing Hermes Hockey Club, where she won numerous provincial and national titles throughout her playing career.
Fiona remains heavily involved with Muckross Hockey Club through both coaching and organisational roles, helping support and develop the next generation of young players through her extensive hockey experience.