Sunday, January 6, 2008

ESB announce increased funding for Women's team

ESB, the National Sponsor of Women's and Girls Hockey in Ireland, has announced further support for the senior squad in their bid to qualify for the Olympic Games in Beijing next August.

The announcement, by ESB Chief Executive, Padraig McManus, means a major boost for the Irish Hockey Women's team as they prepare to tour the Southern Hemisphere next month. The additional funding will be used for match practice against higher world-ranked countries that will pave the way for the qualifying tournament in April.

Speaking at the announcement, Mr McManus said the company was determined to offer as much support as possible to the Irish Hockey squad in its efforts to reach the Olympic Games.

"Success only comes with adequate preparation and ESB is very glad of the opportunity to do as much as it can to assist these very ambitious players to reach the highest possible standard in the run-up to the Games", he added.

The team coach, Gene Muller, said the ESB support was invaluable.

“We are extremely grateful for the huge contribution to our programme. Without it, we would not be able to optimise our preparations for the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in April", he said.

The announcement was made at a reception, hosted by the Irish Hockey Association, which also acknowledged the contribution of Linda Caulfield and Jill Orbinson who recently retired from the international game.

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