Men’s hockey celebrates 100 years in C of I

Cork Church of Ireland will celebrate 100 years of men’s hockey at the club this Saturday, March 31 as past and present members converge on Garryduff Sports Club for a celebratory dinner. The club, ICICYMA, was founded in 1870 and mainly played chess and badminton before a men’s hockey section was formed in 1911.

Having played their home games at Glasheen Road as well as owning Gregg Hall on South Mall, both were sold in 1969 as the club purchased 20 acres at Garryduff, Rochestown. The club wasn’t a leading force in Munster or Irish hockey until the 1950s. Over the years the men’s hockey teams have won many cups and leagues, most notably winning the Irish Men’s Senior Cup for a record-breaking three in a row in 1967, 68 and 69 and later again in 1999. In 1972 the club had one grit pitch and three grass pitches. In 1992 the grit pitch was upgraded to a sand based synthetic surface that was renewed in 2011. An international standard water-based pitch – the first of its kind in Munster – and covered seating were installed in 2005, which hosted the men’s and women’s Celtic Cup between Ireland, Wales, France and Scotland in July 2008. The club has consistently provided players to both underage and full international sides; of the current crop, John Jermyn and David Hobbs both have well in excess of 100 Irish caps while a number of other players past and present are involved in the extended Irish panel. The centenary night will get underway at Garryduff with a drinks reception at 7pm, with dinner at 7.45pm. Cost is €45 for three courses, which also includes wine and petit fours. Goodie bags will be available for the ladies and old photos will be displayed on the night. Tickets are available from Daphne Hales on 021 4891978.