The Game Changers:

The Hockey Ireland Youth Panel

Hockey Ireland is proud to launch The Game Changers, an innovative youth initiative designed to give young people a powerful voice in shaping the future of hockey in Ireland. This exciting program provides a platform for the next generation of hockey enthusiasts to engage, collaborate, and lead the way for a thriving hockey community nationwide.

What Is The Game Changers? 

The Game Changers is a youth council comprised of passionate young people aged 18–23 who are eager to make a meaningful impact on Irish hockey. Through a combination of online and in-person sessions, council members will develop actionable projects, exchange ideas, and work together to drive the sport forward.

Why Get Involved? 

This initiative offers a unique opportunity for young people to: 

• Collaborate: Contribute to a supportive space where the young hockey community can share their perspectives and drive change. 

• Develop Leadership Skills: Gain valuable experience in leadership, teamwork, and project management, paving the way for personal and professional growth. 

• Empower Change: Help Hockey Ireland become a proactive and forward-thinking governing body by tackling real-world challenges in the sport. 

• Build a Legacy: Be part of a sustainable program that will shape Irish hockey for years to come.

How It Works 

The council is project and action-based, allowing members to focus on tangible outcomes. Members will be encouraged to bring their unique skills to the table, applying them in areas they’re passionate about. The program is designed to provide a balance of innovative discussion and hands-on action, with the ultimate goal of delivering meaningful results for Irish hockey.

How to Apply 

If you’re aged 18–23 and passionate about hockey, we want to hear from you! To apply, complete the online application form. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, either online or in person. 

Be part of The Game Changers and help shape the future of Irish hockey. Together, let’s inspire progress, empower leadership, and make an impact!

Closing date for applications: Friday, January 24th 2025 

Game Changers Ambassadors

The Game Changers is supported by three incredible ambassadors – Sarah Hawkshaw, Caoimhe Purdue, and Ben Pasley. These ambassadors will serve as the face of the program and actively contribute to council meetings, inspiring and guiding members to bring their best ideas to life.

Sarah Hawkshaw: “In order for Hockey Ireland to be a proactive body, we need the insights of those who are going to be future leaders in hockey. In designing a program for the future players, umpires, technical officials, coaches, development officers, managers and CEO’s of our sport , we offer opportunities to:

1: Pave the way of what the future of Hockey can look like.
2: Inform and educate so that we can be better today.”

Caoimhe Purdue: “The future of hockey in Ireland depends on the voices of it’s youth, who contribute enthusiasm and energy to the sport. Empowering young players ensures that hockey remains exciting, inclusive and reflects the next generations aspirations and values”

Ben Pasley: “I think it’s important for the youth to have a voice in shaping the future of hockey in Ireland because without young people coming through and playing the game throughout the country it would fall apart. The more people that are playing hockey the better, and this really starts with our youth so I think its important that their voices are heard to help develop Hockey Ireland into an organisation that meets the needs and wants of both the youth and adults to help grow the game in Ireland.”