Free hockey coaching for children with learning difficulties proves big hit

Inclusion in sport was at the heart of a recent coaching initiative for children with learning difficulties undertaken by Northern Ireland Civil Service Hockey Club.
NICS Hockey Club delivered a coaching programme for children with learning difficulties with the support of Ulster Hockey and PlayballNICS Hockey Club delivered a coaching programme for children with learning difficulties with the support of Ulster Hockey and Playball
NICS Hockey Club delivered a coaching programme for children with learning difficulties with the support of Ulster Hockey and Playball

The club delivered its free six-week coaching programme at Stormont which proved to be a huge hit with participants aged 11 to 15.

It was the first time NICS Hockey Club has delivered the programme, and it is to become an annual event.

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The objective of the programme – made possible with the support of Ulster Hockey and Playball – was to promote fitness, team work and communication in addition to building self-confidence.

NICS Hockey Club delivered a coaching programme for children with learning difficulties with the support of Ulster Hockey and PlayballNICS Hockey Club delivered a coaching programme for children with learning difficulties with the support of Ulster Hockey and Playball
NICS Hockey Club delivered a coaching programme for children with learning difficulties with the support of Ulster Hockey and Playball

Participants developed individual hockey skills, made friends and had a lot of fun.

The club is delighted to have received positive feedback from parents of participants and hope to increase participant numbers in the future. Next year it hopes to make the coaching programme more accessible by extending the age range.

Anyone wishing to receive information and updates about this programme can register interest at [email protected].

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The club thanked Alan Crooks from the Irish Football Association who provided invaluable advice in respect of coaching disability sports and sponsors Fujitsu.

NICS Hockey Club delivered a coaching programme for children with learning difficulties with the support of Ulster Hockey and PlayballNICS Hockey Club delivered a coaching programme for children with learning difficulties with the support of Ulster Hockey and Playball
NICS Hockey Club delivered a coaching programme for children with learning difficulties with the support of Ulster Hockey and Playball

The programme is just one initiative being undertaken by NICS Hockey Club to increase participation in hockey, engage with the community and make the sport accessible for everyone.

Earlier this year the club delivered ‘Tricks for Sticks’ coaching sessions in Brooklands Primary School funded by Hockey Ireland and the Irish Sports Council’s Women in Sport Programme.

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