Hockey: Church of Ireland return to EYHL 1 with high hopes

Former Irish international star Jermyn returns to squad.

BACK UP: John Jermyn, Church of Ireland breaking between Bandon players Calum Crowley and Fionn O’Leary at Garryduff, Cork. Picture Dan Linehan

After a six-year hiatus, Church of Ireland men make a return to the EYHL 1, setting their sights on a top six finish.

The squad has welcomed several new additions, including the return of John Jermyn, Alex Burns and Phil Sweetnam. Santiago Gimenez, Leandro Carvhalio, and German Fredi have also joined from abroad.

On the other side, Rob Sweetnam, Louise McDaid, Rob Olden, and Ian Balding have moved on from the team that got promoted last season.

Captain Cian Dorgan will lead the team through what promises to be a competitive campaign.

Head Coach Jonny Bruton, supported by assistant coach Eddie Kirwan and manager Clive Seale, expressed excitement about the club’s return: “It’s been six years since we experienced top-level hockey, so it’s a really exciting time. I’m looking forward to testing ourselves against the best in Ireland.” They host YMCA in the season opener in Garryduff on Saturday at 1pm.

Catholic Institute Women’s Hockey Club is gearing up for another competitive season in EYHL 1, with a refreshed squad and a new coaching setup.

New head coach Noah Erdeljac, formerly player-coach for Toorak East Malvern Men’s Premier League team in Melbourne, brings international experience and a fresh perspective to the Limerick-based side.

He is joined by assistant coach and manager Ger O’Carroll.

The squad has seen notable changes, with Morgan Gallagher (Queensland) and Anna Hoey (Three Rock Rovers) joining the ranks, while Anna Horan departs for Loreto.

“The ambition this season is to be competitive in each game we play,” said Erdeljac. “I’m looking forward to the season ahead and working with a fantastic group who give everything.” Young talent is also emerging, with Anna Campbell, captain of Crescent College Comprehensive’s Kate Russell All-Ireland Schools-winning team, tipped as one to watch.

Institute host last season’s champions Loreto in their first competitive game on their new surface at Rosbrien, tip-off is 12.45pm.

FIXTURES 

SATURDAY Men’S EYHL Division 1: Cork Church of Ireland v YMCA, Garryduff, 1pm; Corinthians v Pembroke Wanderers, Whitechurch Park, 1.15pm; Avoca v Lisnagarvey, Newpark Comprehensive School, 2.30pm; Cookstown v Monkstown, Cookstown HC, 2.30pm; Banbridge v Three Rock Rovers, Havelock Park, 4pm.

Women’s EYHL Division 1: Catholic Institute v Loreto, Rosbrien, 12.45pm; Ulster Elks v Portadown, University of Ulster Jordanstown, 12.45pm; University College Dublin v Queens University, Belfield, 1pm; Railway Union v Old Alexandra, Railway Union HC, 1.40pm; Pegasus v Pembroke Wanderers, Queens University, 2.30pm.