Glenanne School Programme a Real Success
July 07, 2026
As part of the Leinster Hockey Development Fund Initiative, Glenanne Hockey Club recently delivered a hugely successful four-week schools hockey programme across three local primary schools — St. Mark’s SNS, Solas Chríost National School and St. Colmcille’s SNS.
Running throughout April and May, the initiative introduced 4th Class pupils to hockey in a fun and engaging environment, with both boys and girls encouraged to take part regardless of previous experience.
Across the three schools, Glenanne coaches delivered more than 50 coaching sessions during PE classes, with all equipment provided by Glenanne Hockey Club and Leinster Hockey to ensure every child could fully participate.
Throughout the programme, pupils developed a range of skills including hand-eye coordination, teamwork, movement skills and confidence, while also learning the fundamentals of hockey.
The programme concluded with a fantastic Inter-School Hockey Blitz held at St. Mark’s Community School, home of Glenanne Hockey Club. Blessed with excellent weather, the event welcomed ten teams from the participating schools for an afternoon filled with hockey.
Alongside the matches, pupils also enjoyed a number of special demonstrations from Glenanne coaches, including 1v1 hockey skills and a goalkeeping showcase delivered by one of the club’s Women’s 4s goalkeepers. These sessions gave pupils a brilliant insight into club hockey and helped inspire many of the young players involved.
The blitz proved to be a huge success, with children, teachers and coaches all enjoying a memorable afternoon. The enthusiasm and energy shown throughout the programme highlighted the growing interest in hockey within the local community.
Speaking following the event, Glenanne Hockey Club expressed its delight with how the programme developed over the four weeks.
“We are extremely proud of what has been achieved through this programme. It has been fantastic to see so many children trying hockey for the first time and developing both their skills and confidence over the four weeks. The enthusiasm shown by all three schools has been incredible.”
Following the success of this year’s programme, Glenanne Hockey Club hopes to continue building and expanding the initiative in the years ahead.
“We are very keen to continue growing the profile of hockey within local schools and to provide more children with opportunities to get involved in the sport. We look forward to continuing our partnerships with St. Mark’s SNS, Solas Chríost and St. Colmcille’s SNS and growing the programme further across the local area.”
The initiative forms part of Glenanne Hockey Club’s ongoing commitment to grassroots hockey development and community engagement, helping introduce the next generation of players to the sport.
Parents interested in learning more about Glenanne Hockey Club’s junior section can contact:
juniorsection@glenannehockeyclub.com
To learn more about the Leinster Hockey Development Fund Initiative and how your club can benefit, please contact:
admin@leinsterhockey.ie
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