Fundraiser launched to help young Ice Hockey players attend tournament in US
A group of young ice hockey players from across Ireland are hoping to raise funds so that they are able to travel to America for a "dream" tournament.
The Ireland Ice Hockey under 17 team are hoping to travel to Kalamazoo, Michigan, later this year to take part in the Green Ice Tournament where they would face off against teams from across the US and Canada.
This would be a once in a lifetime opportunity for the team, which trains out of the Dundonald Ice Bowl in Northern Ireland, with some players travelling seven hours or more from Co Cork to train there.
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There is no ice rink in the Republic of Ireland with the youth teams using the Co Down facility alongside a number of local clubs.
U17 coach Aisling Daly said: "This tournament is a great opportunity for our young players who will be able to play against teams from across the US and Canada where ice hockey is a massive sport and it should be a very special experience for them.
"For some of our players it will be the most ice time that they get all year, as some have to travel seven hours or more to Dundonald in order to train, as it is the only ice rink available on the island of Ireland.
"Our players will be staying with local families during the trip in order to cut down on costs, and we are seeking sponsorship and fundraising in order to make sure that this trip is able to go ahead for them as the cost of the flights are over 750 Euro each.
"The tournament is also taking place during the St Patrick's Day week and we are looking forward to meeting with local dignitaries who are planning to come down and support the team."
Laura Docherty, who's 14-year-old son has been selected to be on the team heading to Kalamazoo, has launched a fundraiser in order to help the players go to the tournament, saying that they need all the support they can receive to get there.
She said: "My son started ice hockey a few years ago and absolutely loves it. It has given him so many opportunities to travel across the UK.
"Thankfully we live close to the Dundonald ice rink, but the commitment from some of the other players who have to travel long hours to train is incredible.
"I have launched this fundraiser in the hopes of helping the players raise the funds that they need for their flights, jerseys and uniforms, which will be split among each player individually.
"This is a dream opportunity for all of the players and any support to help them is greatly appreciated."
If you would like to donate to the fundraiser you can do so via this link.
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