New Head Coach Sought
Following the news that coach Willie McAdam will retire at the end of the season, Donaghadee Ladies Hockey Club (DLHC) has officially begun its search for a new Club Head Coach to guide the development of its 1st and 2nd XI teams, offering a prime opportunity for a grassroots sports enthusiast to make their mark on the local game.

Known for its welcoming, community-focused atmosphere and a strong core of committed players, the club is looking to build on its solid foundations, with the 1st XI recently promoted to Ulster Hockey’s Senior League 2, while the 2nd XI plays in Junior League 10.

The ideal candidate will be someone with a deep passion for hockey who is eager to foster player development while driving the continued growth of the club as a whole.

Leading from the Sidelines
The newly appointed Head Coach will be responsible for leading coaching efforts across both squads, catering to players of varying experience levels to ensure both performance and enjoyment.

A key component of the role involves planning and delivering structured, engaging weekly training sessions, which take place on Wednesday evenings from 7:30pm to 9:00pm at Bangor Grammar School.

Beyond the training pitch, the coach will provide comprehensive matchday support for both squads across the season. This includes overseeing pre-match preparations, delivering in-game tactical guidance, and conducting post-match analysis to ensure long-term development. Working alongside the club committee, the coach will be expected to help foster a positive, inclusive and team-focused environment.

The Ideal Candidate
Formal coaching qualifications are welcomed but the club will be prioritising applicants with a strong playing background or previous coaching experience who possess a positive, encouraging, and organized approach. The ability to engage and connect with players across a wide spectrum of abilities is considered crucial.

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys grassroots sport and would like to play a key role in developing a friendly and ambitious local club.

How to Apply
Appointment to this role will be subject to appropriate safeguarding requirements, which includes the successful completion of an AccessNI check, and anyone interested in stepping into the dugout or seeking further information about the role is encouraged to express their interest by emailing the club directly at dlhc@hotmail.co.uk.

Ulster Representation
The club would like to extend its congratulations to three DLHC 1XI players who have been selected to represent Ulster at the upcoming Masters Interpros tournament. Kerry Kennedy and Carolyn Scott have both been selected for the O45s team, while Dee keeper Faith McMillan will pull on the pads for the O55s team.

It’s a home tournament this year with three full days of action at Lisnagarvey at the end of April, with matches between the four provinces taking place on Friday 24th, Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th April.

Annual Sixes Tournament
DLHC is delighted to announce that the annual Sixes Tournament has been confirmed for Sunday 31st May 2026 and registration is now open. Now in its third year, teams from across the Province have competed to win the coveted Sarah Hooks Memorial Cup, introduced to remember DLHC 1XI player Sarah Hooks. 

Entries are now open for an unforgettable day of fast-paced hockey, great community spirit and fundraising for local cancer charities.

– Format: 6-a-side, female, 15+
– Date & Time: Sunday 31st May, 1-5pm
– Location: Bangor Grammar School
– Extras: BBQ, Music, Tuck Shop

Entry is £60 per team, with all proceeds going to charity. To enter, email dlhc@hotmail.co.uk for a registration form for your team.

Walking Hockey
Knees not great? Speed gone? Miss the old camaraderie? Want to try something new? Current player fancying a challenge (can you NOT run to get that ball?)

DLHC Walking Hockey is back on Tuesday nights, running 21st, 28th and 4th May from 7-8pm at Bangor Grammar.

Lots of the usual hockey rules apply but all without running! Perfect for old hands, current faces or if you just fancy trying something totally different. Bit of craic and fresh air. We’ll bring the sticks if you bring the banter – message the club for more info, or turn up on the night.