Mark Tumilty appointed head coach of Ireland men’s hockey team

Tumilty, who won countless trophies with Banbridge and Lisnagarvey, initially took on the role on a short-term basis as Ireland prepared for their Olympic Qualifier against Canada last October, which they lost under controversial circumstances.

However, the position was extended into 2020 in ‘line with a normal Olympic cycle’.

And with the European Championships scheduled for August 2021 and the World Cup qualification process getting underway in early 2022, Tumilty has used the past year to widen the Men’s panel and provide some younger players with the opportunity to step up, with the aim of making the squad more competitive.

“It is an honour and privilege to be given the opportunity to coach the Ireland Senior Men’s team,” said Tumilty.

“I am really excited by the players we have available and look forward to developing those players over the next period.

“I want to develop an attacking style of hockey and to create an environment for all players to fulfil their potential during our preparation for the 2021 European Championships.”

Hockey Ireland Performance Director, Adam Grainger, said Tumility had proven his leadership qualities and was held in high regard by existing staff and the players.

“Hockey Ireland High Performance is delighted to reappoint Mark Tumilty as Senior Men’s Head Coach,” said Grainger.

“Despite the disappointment of the unsuccessful qualification for Tokyo 2020, it was very clear from existing players and staff feedback that the leadership of Mark was well received leading into Vancouver qualifiers and subsequently.

“To date, 2020 has not allowed regular programme activity for the Senior Men, yet Hockey Ireland is very much looking forward to working with Mark, his Management Team and the players as they move forward towards their 2021 European Championships and beyond”.

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