Leinster Hockey Newsletter
January 13, 2026
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year from everyone at Leinster Hockey! As we look forward to an exciting 2026 both on and off the field, it’s a great time to reflect on some of the fantastic hockey action from December and look ahead to what’s coming in the first weeks of the new year.
Kilkenny Crowned Neville Cup Champions
A huge congratulations to Kilkenny Men’s side, crowned Neville Cup Champions on St Stephen’s Day against Portrane. In a thrilling match that went all the way to a shootout, Kilkenny claimed their first-ever Neville Cup, becoming the first team from outside Dublin to win the competition. Full Match Report
LM Men’s EY Qualifier
The Men’s EY Qualifier finished in dramatic fashion. Portrane claimed top spot on head-to-head after a campaign that saw them win 8 of 9 fixtures. Clontarf, who matched Portrane’s record, finished second, also securing promotion to the EY 2 League. Bray won on the final day in a thrilling contest, claiming the last promotion spot and marking their first-ever promotion to EY 2. Full Report
Women’s EY Qualifier
The Women’s EY Qualifier went right down to the final day, with three teams in contention for the final promotion spot. Monkstown topped the division with 9 wins and 1 draw, while Avoca finished second with 7 wins and 3 draws. Both teams ended the campaign unbeaten. Trinity secured a final-day victory to claim the last promotion place to EY 2. Full Review
U14 Indoor Tournament Begins
The U14 Indoor Tournament kicked off in the first week of January, starting a month of indoor hockey action for both Boys’ and Girls’ teams. The opening weekends feature group matches, with the Shield Finals scheduled for January 18th and the Cup Finals on January 25th. More Details
Senior Schoolgirl Cup Semi-Finals
January brings exciting cup action for schoolboys and schoolgirls. The Senior Schoolgirls semi-finals will take place on Thursday, January 22nd, at Three Rock Rovers:
- 11:00am – Rathdown School vs Mount Anville
- 1:00pm – Kilkenny College vs Wesley College
LSSG 1st Year Finals
A fantastic morning of finals was held at Rathdown School, with four finals contested across the 1st Year A, B, C, and D Leagues. Played in an 8v8 format, all four games showcased excellent hockey. Congratulations to Alexandra College, The King’s Hospital, Loreto Bray, and Rathdown School. Full Results
Aerial Rule Change
Leinster Hockey can confirm that a new aerial rule change is now in effect across all competitions, in line with Hockey Ireland. This update follows a recent change to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) rulebook and applies immediately. The updated rule is designed to improve player safety and provide clarity around aerial balls. More information
Leinster Hockey Masters
Expressions of interest are now open for players wishing to be considered for the Leinster Women’s Masters teams for the 2026 Interprovincial Championships. Leinster Hockey will enter teams in the Over 35, Over 40, Over 45, and Over 55 age categories, with the competition taking place from April 24–26 in Lisnagarvey. Learn more
Community Sports Facility Fund
The Community Sports Facility Fund will open for applications in 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity for clubs to secure funding for facilities and equipment. More Info
Club Spotlight – Skerries Hockey Club
Skerries Hockey Club featured in our Club Spotlight in December, highlighting 2025 achievements including an inters trip abroad, the re-introduction of the Men’s team, and continued development across the club. Read now
FIH Pro League in Dublin
The FIH Pro League brought world-class hockey to Dublin in December. The Irish Women’s Team delivered excellent performances, making the event a huge success for players, fans, and everyone involved.
Leinster Hockey looks forward to an action-packed January as the season gets fully underway!
