Leinster Hockey Launch Boys’ Club 5-a-Side Blitzes
October 01, 2025
Leinster Hockey is delighted to launch our new Boys’ Club 5-a-Side Blitzes – an exciting initiative designed to encourage more boys to get involved in hockey and to keep players active and engaged in the sport.
The smaller-sided format creates a fun, supportive, and fast-paced environment where players get more touches, more chances to showcase their skills, and plenty of action to help their development for the full 11-a-side game. Blitzes will be held across U12, U14, U16, and U18 levels.
Our very first blitz took place on Sunday, September 28th, at Railway Union and proved a great success. Teams from Monkstown, North Kildare, Railway Union, and Avoca all took part, with some fantastic hockey on display. Huge thanks to umpire Ciaran Lyons for officiating on the day.
The 5-a-side format has been trialled over the summer with some exciting ideas in place, including 1v1 shootouts (with retreating defenders) instead of penalty corners, no long-handled hitting, and shorter, high-scoring games. Matches are played with mandatory goalkeepers and full-size goals, ensuring plenty of involvement for every player.
By reducing team sizes, players get significantly more time on the ball and are involved in the play far more than in the traditional format, supporting both skill development and enjoyment. Host clubs can use 5s boards, pitch ropes, or open-sided pitches depending on the equipment available, making the format flexible and accessible.
Looking ahead, the next blitzes will take place on October 26th and November 30th (host clubs to be confirmed). All blitzes are scheduled for Sunday afternoons/evenings, avoiding clashes with regular boys’ fixtures.
Clubs interested in taking part or hosting a blitz can contact kenny.carroll@hockey.ie to register their interest.
We’re really excited to roll out this programme and look forward to seeing even more players enjoying hockey in this new, fast-paced format!
