The IHA is delighted to re-launch the Youth Leader for 2010/2011. As the programme is in its fourth year, the IHA took the summer to review it and have now come up with some changes. All of the programme changes and updates are included below!

What is the Youth Leader Programme?

The Youth Leader programme was set up to introduce young people, aged between 15 and 21, to volunteering in their hockey club. The aim of the programme is to enjoy all aspects of the sport of hockey rather than concentrating on playing only. To do this, the programme focuses on 3 main areas which are umpiring, coaching and team management. The Youth Leader programme helps to pass on skills, top tips and most importantly confidence so that Youth Leaders can get back out to their clubs in order to put their new found knowledge to use! To date, there is a network of 250 Youth Leaders in 4 branches.

How does it work if I want to take part?

In order to come onto the programme, you start by coming to an Introductory Workshop. This workshop runs for 4 hours and gives the everyone an opportunity to meet other leaders from around their branch. These workshops are scheduled in all branches (dates are advertised on this site).

Once I've done the workshop, how do I complete the programme?

Once you have completed the workshop, it is back to the clubs! At this stage, it's up to you to let your club know how you would like to help out. Do you want to do some coaching, try out some umpiring or help out with team management? Or possibly it's a combination of all 3! You let your club know and work out a schedule so that you can complete 5 hours of sessions with your club.

How do the practical sessions work?

At the introductory workshop, you'll be given a Youth Leader Guide. This booklet holds a number of blank sessions that you must fill in. This is done by completing 5 hours of sessions within the club. The five hours can be made up of coaching, umpiring, team management or a combination of all three! Once the sessions are written up, they must be signed by a club representative. When that is done, the club lets the IHA know and we release the certificates at the end of each season.

What is the cost?

There is a charge of €10 to come onto the Youth Leader Programme which is paid on the day. This payment covers the list below:

1. Attendance at the Introductory Workshop and materials
2. Membership of the Youth Leader programme for 12 months
3. Log in to the Youth Leader Blog (members only)
4. Invitation to ongoing workshops throughout the season
5. Invitation to the Youth Leader ceremony at the end of the season

If you'd like to take part in the Youth Leader Programme, please speak to your club. Alternatively, get in touch with the IHA directly by phoning us on +353 1 716 3265.