Hundreds of pupils played hockey as part of the Sure Sports Primary Schools’ Programme.

Year three and four pupils from primary schools competed in a national final on Friday at the NSC, after qualifying at regional festivals held in the north, south, east and west last month.

Ballacottier Blues emerged the winners and received a trophy from Sarah Jarvis, Sure Isle of Man’s Marketing and PR Manager.

The Sure Sports Primary Schools’ Programme is run by the Sports Development Unit in partnership with sports’ governing bodies and is generously supported by the telecoms firm.

Pupils are offered the opportunity to participate in inter-school events in six sports: hockey, tag rugby, badminton, netball, kwik cricket and athletics.

Kirsty Cooper, Sports Development Officer, said all 32 primaries participated in the regional heats after holding after-school hockey clubs so pupils could get in some practice.

Some schools entered more than one team, meaning an impressive 56 teams took part in total. The top two teams in each region made it through to the final.

‘The Department’s Strategy for Sport 2014-2024 aims to boost physical activity in young people and encourage them to participate regularly in community sport,’ Kirsty said.

‘The Sure programme introduces children to a variety of sports and we encourage them to continue playing the sport as a hobby and keep fit.

‘It was fantastic to see more than 560 children being given the opportunity to try out hockey in a school setting. This is a great stepping stone for them into playing the sport at community club level.

‘All children participating in the events received certificates and information about junior hockey club sessions.’

Kirsty added: ‘Thanks go to the umpires from the Manx Hockey Association, who volunteered their time to support the events, and to Sure for its continued support of the programme.’

Sarah from Sure commented: ‘I was delighted to see so many schools participating in this event. The commitment of the participants, along with the support of their coaches and parents, is great to see. Clearly everyone also had a good time, which is a bonus.

‘Anything that encourages youngsters to try a new activity in a fun and gently competitive way can only be good for the children themselves and for the future of sport on the Island. I’m sure some of these children will be the hockey stars of the future.’

To find out more about junior community hockey clubs, contact the Sports Development Unit on 01624 688592 or email SDUenquiries@gov.im. 

Photo - Sarah Jarvis from Sure presenting the winner’s trophy to Ballacottier Blues.