Leinster Men’s U21

The Leinster Men’s U21 programme returned in 2026 following a six-year absence, and everyone at Leinster Hockey has been absolutely delighted to welcome the programme back.

The programme began alongside the wider Leinster Hockey Development Programme, with players from clubs across the province taking part in training sessions and assessments over a number of weeks as preparations got underway for the return of U21 representative hockey. 

The first U21 Interprovincial fixtures returned in May at Rathdown School, as Leinster faced Ulster and the the Leinster U18 side. The Leinster Men’s U21 squad produced a number of excellent performances throughout the day, with the fixtures against Ulster proving to be highly entertaining contests played at an excellent standard.

The opening match finished 2–2 following an end-to-end game with chances created by both sides throughout. The second fixture followed a very similar pattern, with more high-quality attacking hockey on display as the teams once again could not be separated, finishing in a thrilling 3–3 draw.

As the programme continues to grow, the Leinster Men’s U21 squad will travel to Belgium this August, where the team will take part in three competitive matches before attending a number of Hockey World Cup fixtures taking place during the tournament.

The trip promises to be a fantastic experience for the squad, providing players with the opportunity to compete internationally while also creating lasting memories both on and off the pitch alongside experiencing some of the very best hockey in the world.

Everyone at Leinster Hockey is extremely excited to see the continued development and growth of the U21 programme, and we look forward to building on its return over the coming seasons.

Coaching Staff:

Head Coach: Andy Ewington

Following the reintroduction of the Leinster Men’s U21 programme in 2026, Andy Ewington was appointed as Head Coach of the squad.

This role complements his position as Men’s 1st XI Head Coach at UCD, who compete in Irish Hockey League Division 2. Andy has also previously coached YMCA Men’s 1st team and has been heavily involved in the club’s junior boys development programme.

Assistant Coach: Arul Anthoni