Runners-Up Deirdre Ennis 2010

The Deirdre Ennis Shield competition is an annual invitation tournament run by Muckross Hockey Club for Under 12 players (or those still in 6th class at the time of the event). The tournament is typically the players’ first introduction to competitive hockey in thier clubs as generally cross club competitions are of mixed ability teams.  However, clubs enter their top selection of players for this event. That said – the emphasis should at all times be on fun, participation and learning.

Teams are encouraged to bring their own umpires and to treat the event as a good way for gaining experience and training – Supporters, teams and coaches will naturally be encouraged this aspect of the tournament.

In addition, the tournament is set up in such a way that all teams should continue to be involved until the last 2 rounds of the event.

Deirdre Ennis taught hockey in both Muckross School and Club many years ago… she was a great influence on the current “older generation” in the club – teaching them how to love the game of hockey, and that there is a grace to both winning and losing. Emer O’Brien can remember being taught by Ms. Ennis and what an influence she had on her. The tournament was set up by Emer some years ago – and it is hoped that while the girls enjoy the event, that the competition side will not take over fully.

Katie Ronan (captain) and Moya Ryan (Club president)

The annual Deirdre Ennis Shield took place on Sunday 21st March 2010.  In all 16 teams took part - representing 14 clubs across Ireland (well done to Yeats who travelled from Sligo!).  Mount Anville were the eventual winners, beating the Muckross development squad (Muckross Tigers) 1-0.

The following clubs took part in the event in 2010 - Bray, Genesis, Malahide, Loreto, Railway, Our Ladies, Alex, Corinthians, Mount Anville,  Yeats, Avoca, Hermes, Pembroke and of course Muckross. 

Teams were divided into 4 sections, and following the first series of round robins - Muckross topped three sections, with Mount Anville taking the honours in the 4th.  Cross over matches with the runners up in the sections - Genesis, Corinthians, Railway and Avoca produced just one winner - the Muckross Tigers. 

A hockey skills relay race was run off to decide who would advance through to the semi-finals.  Mount Anville and Corinthians were clear winners against Avoca and the Muckross Bears. The Railway/Muckross Lions race had to be repeated after a dubius Muckross win in the first race.  Railway were very unfortunate with their last leg and were just pipped by the Lions. 

Many thanks to all the coaches and umpires who took gave their time today to make for a very special end of season for all the players involved.   Thanks also to event sponsors Sportways and the Compass Group.  If you are looking for more hockey - check out the Sportways website for details of their summer camps.  http://www.sportways.ie/new/index.php?oid=22

Congratulations to Pembroke Hockey Club who beat Mount Anville 2-1 in a very close final to win the U12 Deirdre Ennis Shield.  The Pembroke girls took an early lead in the first two minutes thanks to a good strike by Lucie Wolfe.  This put them in control of the first half.  Mt Anville kept the pressure on right through to half-time but Pembroke cleared well from the scoring zones.  Pembroke scored early again in the 2nd Half with a superb solo run by their impressive forward, Sarah McCready,  Shortly after Mt Anville pulled one back to stay in the game and keep the pressure on right to the final whistle.  

The competition ran off very smoothly - with 15 clubs taking part.  Both Muckross teams - the Dolphins and Tigers went through to the play-offs and were beaten by Avoca and Mt Anville respectively.  Pembroke and Corinthians met in a closely fought semi-final, Pembroke eventually winning on sudden death “penalty pushes”.  Avoca and Mt Anville had an equally close semi-final, which also went into a penalty competition - with Mt Anville taking very solid pushes to steer them to the finals.

Congratulations to all the teams who took part in the competition - the standard was very high and sets the girls up well for next season when many will move to the U14 league structures.