Hockey: Hopes more will take up 'important' non-playing roles in sport

MHA keen to take on more umpires, coaches and officials for the future

Those behind running the Isle of Man's hockey scene remain keen to get more people involved in key roles behind the scenes.

Currently, it's understood there are around 1,000 participants involved in some form of playing capacity in the sport on Island at either senior or junior level.

As the end of the calendar year approaches, the Manx Hockey Association (MHA) has plans for to expand its playing opportunities going into 2026 such as re-introducing 'walking hockey' and indoor competitions for Under-15's.

Outside of that though, MHA Hockey Development Officer, Rachel Andrew says there are still important positions as umpires, coaches and league officials which need to be filled in the long-term:

The 2025 mixed hockey league season came to an end last weekend, however numerous championships and competitions are still to be played before the sport takes a break over the festive period.

This Saturday (6 December) will see this year's indoor finals being held at the NSC in Douglas on the following schedule:

2025 Manx hockey indoor finals (Saturday, 6 December @ NSC, Douglas)

10am - Castletown B vs Bacchas B (Ladies Division One)

11am - Vikings A vs Bacchas B (Men's Premier League)

12pm - Valkyrs A vs Vikings A (Ladies Premier League)

1pm - Castletown B vs Harlequins B (Mixed Division One)

2pm - Vikings A vs Bacchas A (Mixed Premier League)

3pm - Vikings B vs Bacchas B (Men's Division One)

Elsewhere, this year's outdoor mixed cup finals will take place across two upcoming weekends.

Saturday, 13 December will see two finals at the NSC in Douglas - firstly the Mixed Bowl final between Vikings D and Castletown Cosney at 12.30pm before the Mixed Plate final between Bacchas C and Valkyrs B at 2.30pm.

The following Saturday (20 December) the Mixed Cup final will be held at the same venue at 12.30pm between Bacchas A and Castletown Celts.

At the turn of the year, the MHA plans to begin the new Under-15's indoor tournament on Sunday, 4 January whilst 'walking hockey' is scheduled to return on Tuesday, 13 January from 11am at the Tommy Clucas Community Sports Hall in Peel.