Enniskillen Ladies Hockey Club kicked off their 50th anniversary celebrations with an event at Enniskillen Castle on Friday, February 9.

The event was attended by over 40 past and current players, as well long-term supporters of the club and local Council representatives.

Club Chairperson, Glenda Johnston, warmly welcomed all those in attendance and passionately talked about the many key moments in the history of the hockey club.

A fruitful 50 years has seen many highs and lows for the Club since its inception in 1974.

From the first success of the club in 1977 to an exciting win in the 1979 Intermediate Cup to the iconic McConnell Shield win in 1994, which saw the club represent Ulster in the All-Ireland finals, coming out runners-up in a keenly contested final in Kilkenny to the 1st XI team completing the double in 2018, claiming the Junior League title and winning the Cup, following an unbeaten season.

The disappointment within the room was felt when Glenda concluded her speech with the harsh reality that Fermanagh's only hockey club, continues to play within another county and Council area.

However, the positivity shone through, with the belief that someday soon, the continued fight for suitable facilities within Fermanagh would be worthwhile, with a venue and funding finally secured to allow the club to continue to grow and develop within Fermanagh once again.

Glenda introduced the first speaker of the evening, former Enniskillen Ladies hockey player and Senior Ireland rugby player, Kathryn Dane.

Kathryn spoke fondly of her memories of playing hockey with Enniskillen Ladies and how the friendships and lessons she learned stood her in great stead as she embarked on her international rugby career.

Kathryn bravely spoke of her own recent setbacks following a medical emergency during training but her determination to succeed and dedication to her sport were evident.

An excellent role model for all young athletes from this small rural county, who so often are left behind due to failed investment and deteriorating facilities.

The final speaker of the evening was Dr. Shirley McCay, OLY MBE, the most capped Irish International sports person and hockey World Cup silver medalist with the Ireland Hockey team.

Shirley was coached by former Enniskillen Ladies Hockey player, Mary Swann, during her school years at Omagh Academy.

Shirley talked about her cherished time playing hockey, showing videos of her proudest moments representing Ireland over her long playing career, from her international debut in 2007 to her retirement in 2021.

She now works at Ulster Hockey developing the next generation of hockey athletes within the province.

The club were honoured to have Shirley present young members with certificates for their successful participation in the Hockey Ireland Young Leaders Course back in October 2023.

Congratulations to Isla Rowland, Lucy Pattison, Ella McFarland, Emily Jane Bloomfield and Marianna Bell who attended on the night.

The event came to a close, giving attendees the opportunity to browse the many scrapbooks on display, showing years of wonderful memories of hockey within Fermanagh and allowing players past and present to reminisce on the fantastic friendships they have gained over the years.

Following a short absence, the hockey club reformed and began competing again in the Ulster Senior 3 League, for the 2023/24 season.

Whilst this has been a difficult season, placed in a league unsuitable for clubs who are trying to redevelop, positive performances from all players have given the club much to work on and a bright future ahead.

With over 40 senior members, the club is delighted to be able to provide hockey opportunities for young ladies within the county.

Further success with junior hockey sessions held over the last 12 months has seen over 100 primary and secondary school children enjoy hockey once again.

None of this would be possible without a group of dedicated coaches and volunteers, and the club is always looking for additional helpers to support the development and growth of hockey in Fermanagh.

As part of this dedication and desire to enhance, the club will be hosting a club umpire workshop on Monday February 26 in Fivemiletown Youth Annex at 7pm.

Anyone interested in finding out some more about hockey and learning the rules, please register to attend via the Ulster Hockey website.

The club would like to thank Jill McCormack for organising this wonderful event, which showcased the great achievements and aspirations of those involved in this minority sport within Fermanagh.

Thanks also to Enniskillen Castle for providing the venue and to Charlie from the Café at the Castle for the lovely food.

The Club looks forward to hosting further events to mark this milestone year for hockey in Fermanagh.