Bateman to take player award

KAREN BATEMAN’S inspirational performances in turning back the clock to help Cork Harlequins retain their Munster league title will be among 31 outstanding contributions recognised at the Munster Branch of the Irish Hockey Association (MBIHA) Awards 2007-2009, to be held in the Fred South Room at Garryduff this evening (7.30pm).

The decorated former Irish international repeatedly showed why she is still an asset at any level of the game as Quins saw off the challenge of UCC and Cork C of I in the most exciting women’s title race in years, and she will be honoured with this season’s women’s player of the year award.

Bateman became the only player in the history of Munster hockey to claim 14 consecutive league winner’s medals in the process, as well as helping Quins reach the semi-finals of the inaugural Irish Hockey League.