Banbridge starts with their Irish Ey Hockey League campaign with a reinforced panel prior to a large date with multi -year top four rivals three Rock Rovers.
This season, Adam Mcallister and Callum Robson are joining their ranks of Annadale to add more international experience on one side that was already in Peter Brown, Johnny McKee, Luke Withowow, Fergus Gibson, Luke Roleston and the Rowe Twins Louis and Charlie.
Last year they conquered a mixed regular season to win the Irish title by going through the EY Champions Trophy Wildcard Round on the road before they defeated three Rock and Lisnagarvey in the Finals weekend, making it three titles in a row.
This time their panel has a typical family taste. The Rowes are part of four brothers in the Jake and Edward team who both returned to the club next time in America on golf fairs.
Indeed, they are part of an incredible sporting tradition, in which mother Sonya Ireland has represented in equestrian sport and father Ken who plays tennis for his country.
Both parents of Johnny McKee are former Irish internationals (John & Glenda) with Johnny who corresponds to the 100 caps of his father for Ireland. Another set of brothers are Matthew and Adam McKee (no relationship with Johnny).
Captain Alex Tinney shows his dedication to the club by traveling three times a week from Raphoe in Co Donegal to train and for competitions, a return of every occasion of more than 250 kilometers.
Goalkeeper Roleston has recently taken a time -out to qualify as a nurse to concentrate on his hockey career.
Recent addition Robson is the brother of 150+ covered Michael; He also spent a season in Crefelder HTC in Germany, just like Johnny McKee. Bann’s assistant coach John Clarke has previously held the role of head coach at the Irish Senior Men’s team. The majority of the team are all former students of Banbridge Academy with whom the club has strong ties.
Banbridge has had a productive preseason with friendly matches against KHC Dragons and a double header against Surbiton, now an annual match.
Their competition season starts on Saturday against Three Rock in Havelock Park, which they pulled 3-3 in the equivalent-removal last year, but crucial, BANN won the Playoff fight.
Head coach Scott McCandless – now in his fifth season in the role – is looking forward to their EHL KO16 date with Bloemendaal and says: “The draw gives the players and the staff the opportunity to test themselves against one of the iconic clubs in Bloemendaal. It is the first opportunity to oppose the first opportunity in the European Competition and the Squad.”
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