GALWAY hosts the finals of the schools senior hockey for the Kate Russell Trophy on Thursday, March 18, and Friday, March 19, in the NUIG pitch in Dangan. All the elite provincial hockey winners come West to contest for the Irish Senior Crown. Two Galway schools will be participating and intent on keeping the trophy in the city.
Holders Coláiste Iognáid and Salerno contested the Connacht

Final in Dangan last week. In a tightly fought encounter, the Jes overcame the challengers courtesy of an Elaine Carey goal scoredearly in the second half.

Having captured the national trophy for the first time last season, the Jes girls are intent on putting in a bold bid to retain the championship. With eight of last season’s starting line-up, including five international players, the Sea Road outfit have prepared assiduously in their attempt to become the first Galway school to retain the title.

Coach Imelda Brennan, Manager Rita Ryan and fitness advisor Darragh Leonard know what it takes to win the title and, on home soil, they will be intent on ensuring that every effort is made to keep the Kate Russell trophy in Galway. Dominican College, Taylor’s Hill were the only other Galway winners when they captured the title in 1998.
 

Salerno overcame Sligo Grammar in the semi-final by 2-1. They are coached by Gerry Heaney and backboned by Irish international Freddie Timmins. Keeper Vicki Hynes, her sister Alison, Saoirse McGath and captain Sarah Johnson are key performers for the Threadneedle Road side. Salerno has hosted the competition in Galway on three previous occasions in 1992,1999 and 2002.

The action commences next Thursday in Dangan at 9am when the Jes entertain the Munster champions The other school in the group is South East champions Loretto Kilkenny or Loretto Wexford. The Jes match against the South East side begins at 3pm.

In the other pool, Salerno face a formidable Ulster side. Leinster will be represented by newly crowned champions St. Andrews. The first Salerno group begins at 10.30am with the second starting at 1.30pm. Home advantage and good support should ensure that Galway’s rising star in the national game is reflected in strong performances by their local representatives.

Dependant on Thursday’s group scores the 5/6, 3/4 and final of the tournament run on Friday, March 19. These games are set for 9.30am, 11.30am, with the decider starting at 1.30pm.

The Jes as All-Ireland champions are undertaking the running of the tournament. Manager Rita Ryan has the onerous task of both overseeing her own team’s preparations and heading up the organising committee.

The tournament affords Galway sport followers the opportunity of taking in some cracking hockey over the two days in Dangan. With some good fortune, one of the city schools might also ensure that the title stays in Galway for only the third time ever.