The Munster Branch of the Irish Hockey Association (MBIHA) last night unanimously passed a controversial proposal that will oblige Division One clubs to play their games between 12.30pm and 3pm on Saturdays from January 1 in order to maximise publicity and spectator attendance.
A recommendation along similar lines had already been in place, but a number of recent high-profile matches were played at what were deemed to be unsuitable times, prompting the branch to make the recommendation obligatory.
A number of clubs had objected to the proposal from the fixtures committee, arguing that such an arrangement did not suit players. These concerns were heard at the meeting, but branch members were nonetheless unanimously in favour of the proposal.
However, it was also agreed that matches could be played outside this timeframe provided clubs give written notice 10 days before the fixture, subject to the provision of a legitimate reason that is met with approval from the relevant fixture secretary.
In a circular to clubs, the MBIHA explained the rationale behind the decision: “It basically requires players and clubs to be more organised in the forward planning of fixtures.
“The MBIHA can see that mid-week matches, when properly planned, can be very successful.
“Fundamentally, the reasoning behind this is to optimise the exposure of top-level hockey to spectators and coverage in the media.
“Also, may (the branch) add a sincere thank you to the clubs who submitted their views on the matter, which were taken into account when making this decision.”
The branch also pointed out that, as a democratic body, it has an appeals process in place, which can be found on its website.
