Men’s EY Qualifier – Season Preview (Part 2)
September 17, 2025
The countdown is nearly over! In this second part of our Men’s EY Qualifier season preview, we turn the spotlight on the remaining teams who are set to feature in what promises to be another action-packed Leinster campaign. With plenty of changes across the squads, fans can look forward to fresh faces, strong rivalries, and plenty of competitive hockey in the weeks ahead.
Portrane HC – Season Preview
Portrane enter the new season with some notable changes to their line-up. Anthony Glutz and Nic Pio have moved to YMCA, while the squad will be boosted by the arrivals of Dylan Ferreria and Tristan Boyall in the coming weeks.
Experienced figures Chris Neville and Imran Khan return to anchor the group, alongside key contributors John Skehan, Andrew Darroch, and Cheslyn Gardiner. Young internationals Noa Mulvey and Liam Walsh, fresh from strong showings with the Irish U18s, add further quality, while brothers Peter and Max Stead will be pushing to break into the first-team squad.
On the coaching side, Derek Ledwidge steps in as manager, working alongside head coach Ross Hetem, with Gerry Cullen joining as strength and conditioning coach. The blend of experience, youth, and fresh expertise gives Portrane plenty of depth as they prepare for the season ahead.
Railway Union – Season Preview
Railway Union enjoyed a strong EY2 Qualifier run last year, topping the table thanks to impressive contributions from their homegrown talent. However, the latter half of the season proved more challenging, and a playoff spot narrowly slipped from their grasp.
This summer has seen significant change, with 15 players departing through transfers and relocations. While that represents a major shift, it also creates opportunities for the next generation to step forward. The club has consistently invested in youth, and this year’s squad will once again feature plenty of young players gaining valuable first-team experience.
Several squad members were part of Leinster’s recent U16 Interpro success, underlining the talent pipeline within the club. Supporters can expect a youthful and energetic Railway team this season.
Captain: Matthew O’Brien Holohan
Vice-Captain: Bruce Whaley
Players to Watch: Rob O’Brien, Bruce Whaley, Charlie Trotter
Rathgar HC – Season Preview
Rathgar approach the new season with a refreshed and well-balanced squad, combining the return of experienced players with several new additions. The squad has been put through a strong pre-season programme under head coach Nasir Munir Chaudhry, now entering his second year in charge, as the team continues to build on the foundations laid last year.
The club welcomes Ethan Flynn, James Coman, Eoin Brennan, and Calum Adair into the 1s setup, while Stephen Ludgate, Tom Cole, Liam Bean, and Aidan Doyle move on. Leadership remains steady, with Julian Foley captaining the side and Isaac Lindsay serving as vice-captain.
With greater depth across the squad and a clear focus on consistent performances, Rathgar are well prepared for the challenges of this season’s LM EY Qualifier.
UCD HC – Season Preview
This year represents something of a rebuilding phase for UCD, following a major turnover in personnel after last season’s EYHL campaign. With only six players retained, the focus is on developing new combinations and building the squad’s long-term foundations.
The side welcomes several important additions, including goalkeeper David Persse (Pembroke) and Monkstown duo Will Knatchbull and Andrew O’Brien Hoolahan, who bring useful EYHL experience. Depth will also come from UCD’s 2s, who enjoyed an excellent campaign last season and now have the chance to step up at senior level.
While the squad is still finding its identity after so much change, UCD will approach the season with a clear focus on growth and development.
Weston HC – Season Preview
Weston head into the campaign with a solid pre-season behind them and a strong sense of determination. The squad has been preparing for the challenges of a highly competitive LM EY Qualifier, with plenty of hard work put in to sharpen both fitness and match play.
They begin their season with a home fixture against Portrane, a contest that promises to be an exciting fixture. Weston are eager to make their mark on the campaign.
We’d like to wish all clubs the very best as the new season begins — here’s to an exciting year of men’s hockey across Leinster.
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