UCC hosts prestigious European U16 hockey tournament in the Mardyke

Ireland and seven other European nations will be in action across seven days of top-class hockey in Cork

The Ireland U16s who will compete at the Girls 8 Nations Hockey Tournament at the Mardyke Sports Grounds.

UCC proudly welcome seven countries to Leeside over the weekend for the U16 Girls 8 Nations Hockey Tournament to the Mardyke Sports Grounds.

The prestigious event, which runs until next Saturday, sees eight of Europe's leading hockey nations come together in Cork for a week of elite international competition.

The tournament, hosted by Hockey Ireland, will see the next generation of international hockey talent represent Belgium, England, France, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Scotland and Spain in what promises to be an exciting celebration of youth sport, international friendship and high-performance development.

The 8 Nations Tournament is one of the most important events in the European youth hockey calendar, providing young athletes with the opportunity to compete at the highest level while gaining invaluable international experience during a key stage of their sporting development.

Throughout the week, spectators will have the opportunity to watch some of Europe's most promising young players in action.

John O'Halloran, UCC president, said: "University College Cork is delighted to welcome Hockey Ireland and the eight participating nations to the Mardyke Sports Grounds for this prestigious international tournament. Hosting the U16 Girls 8 Nations reflects UCC's strategic commitment to supporting women's sport, nurturing the development of young athletes, and creating opportunities for international sporting collaboration.

"We are proud to showcase our world-class sporting and accommodation facilities while welcoming players, coaches, officials and supporters to Cork. I would like to thank Hockey Ireland and our colleagues in UCC Accommodation, UCC Sport and the Mardyke Arena for their outstanding collaboration in bringing this event to life."

The tournament is expected to generate a positive economic impact for the region while further strengthening Cork's reputation as a leading destination for international sporting events.

The tournament runs from Sunday July 12th until Saturday July 18th, with matches taking place daily at the Mardyke Sports Grounds. Members of the public, the UCC community and local hockey clubs are warmly invited to come along and support the future stars of European hockey.