Robin Madeley has been appointed the National Development Officer for the Irish Hockey Association.

In a newly-created role that takes a national focus, Madeley will spearhead plans to increase participation rates within the sport of hockey in Ireland, taking a strong school and club focus.

The appointment is another crucial step in the continued implementation of the IHA’s four-year strategic plan, in which increased participation rates is a key strategic goal. The announcement follows the recent unveiling of the IHA’s Branch Support Programme, which supports Madeley’s appointment by investing in the region of €250k in local, Branch-led development plans over the next three years.

A former Irish international, Madeley joins the Association with a strong blend of coaching experience and qualifications and commercial development experience accrued in Ireland and overseas. He has coached hockey at all levels in both club and school environments at Wesley College, Three Rock Rovers, Belfast Harlequins and Banbridge. He also has a strong commercial development background with Nike, where he managed a large territory in the UK, performing with distinction.

“Robin’s technical coaching skills are clear to see,” said IHA Chief Executive Paul Varian today, “but what really impressed us was the clear vision he showed in his nationwide proposals for developing hockey.”

“Robin demonstrated an understanding of the strategic nature of the job of National Development Officer and the importance of galvanising Irish hockey’s volunteer base, which we liked.

“I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to be the National Development Officer for the IHA,” said Madeley today. “These are very exciting times for Irish Hockey across both the men’s and women’s games. The main objective now will be to build on this momentum, empowering the clubs and Branches to provide more opportunities to develop the sport further at a local level.”

Madeley will commence in his new role on 20 February 2006 and will immediately start work on developing comprehensive national plans to boost participation rates across the whole 32 counties of Ireland.