Nenagh Hockey Club End of Season Gala

The sun shone on Saturday evening as the attendees of the annual of Nenagh Hockey Club End of Season party arrived at the Abbey Court Hotel.

In between the customary photo taking on arrival, the guests mingled in the ballroom where they were entertained by music from Callan. Following the drinks reception, Chairperson of the Club, Edel Kennedy took to the stage to welcome the party goers and to reflect briefly on the success of the club this year.

Now in its second year the Hockey Gala is an opportunity for players, coaches, volunteers, and supporters to get together and socialize, following the end of a long hockey season.

The club has been very successful across several age groups this year and has continued to grow exponentially. Particular mention was given to the drive towards inclusivity in the hockey club with focus on the Hockey4All, for players with additional needs, a disadvantaged player programme and an outreach for the Ukrainian refugees children of the Nenagh area.

Following the welcome speech, Coach Colin Stanley took to the stage to review the year the highlight of which was the Under 18 girls team winning the Munster Cup final- a first for Nenagh HC and indeed any Tipperary hockey team.

An awards ceremony followed where awards were presented by President of Munster Hockey Michael Houghton.

Young Player of the Year: Under 14 player Sarah Spillane for her work rate and consistency throughout the season.

Most Improved Player: Under 16 Jane Quigley who had a stellar year and was immense in defence for the entire season.

Player of the Year: Several players were short listed for the Player of the Year award this year. Captain of the under 18s Aoibhinn Murphy received a special mention as did Ruby Benn who had a stunning season once she returned from injury. Goalkeeper Alannah Stanley was given a glowing mention for her amazing performances throughout the Cup competition especially in the Cup final where she made some incredible saves in the first quarter.

However, Player of the Year for 23/24 went to super forward Katya Shorten who scored an incredible 22 goals in seventeen games including five hat-tricks. The Nenagh Club forward has recently been selected into the Munster U15 panel and has a bright hockey future ahead. She was a popular winner on the night.

Club Person of the Year: Oriana O'Brien for her commitment to the club on and off the field. She was assistant coach at Under 8 level and also volunteered to help with the Hockey4all programme. In addition to her support in coaching she also trained incredibly hard and had a brilliant season with the Under 18 team.

Final remarks were reserved for the Chair person who thanked sponsors, supporters, and parents. The festivities continued into the night with music and dancing til late.