Special Olympics signs Memorandum of Understanding with Hockey Ireland

Special Olympics signs Memorandum of Understanding with Hockey Ireland

Special Olympics Ireland and Hockey Ireland have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The signing of the Memorandum was celebrated at the FIH Hockey Pro League event in Dublin.

Hockey Ireland has competed in two Special Olympics competitions in the Netherlands supported by Special Olympics Ireland. Both organisations are committed to exploring a new model of inclusion, knowledge-sharing and pooling expertise to expand opportunities for athletes with an intellectual disability in the sport of hockey.

The memorandum will offer an inclusive model for clubs by utilising the sports structures in place, with the help of institutions, community networks and the expertise of both Hockey Ireland and Special Olympics Ireland.

This Memorandum, which lasts for a term of three years, is an important part of building a long-term, collaborative framework between Special Olympics Ireland and Hockey Ireland who will work together to ensure access, inclusion, and support within the sport of hockey, opening doors to a wider field of play for athletes with an intellectual disability.

Special Olympics Ireland Chief Executive Officer Karen Coventry said: “The Memorandum of Understanding with Hockey Ireland is an exciting step in a partnership built on the importance of inclusion and community. This will allow us to continue to work together to create opportunities for athletes with an intellectual disability to play and compete in hockey. Thank you to Hockey Ireland CEO Anne McCormack, and the Board and team at Hockey Ireland for their shared commitment to enhance lives through sport – we look forward to this innovative partnership!”

Hockey Ireland CEO Anne McCormack said: “Hockey Ireland is delighted to formalise this partnership with Special Olympics Ireland, and it comes shortly after we celebrated together at the FIH Hockey Pro League in Dublin where Minister of State for Sport Charlie McConalogue spoke of expanding the reach of Hockey and creating more inclusive spaces. This agreement reflects our commitment to the expansion of our sport to those of all abilities, creating inclusive environments where every athlete can thrive.”