I have great pleasure in congratulating Down Hockey Club on the occasion of its centenary, both personally and especially on behalf of the Ulster Branch of the Irish Hockey Union.

The club has come a long way from the  early matches played at Saul Camp to their excellent facilities at the Strangford Road, and makes an important contribution to hockey in Ulster.

I have always associated the club with a competitive spirit on the field, but a hospitable welcome to all involved in the game.

This is the essence of true sport and I look forward to them carrying  this through into their next 100 years.

I hope this landmark in Down Hockey Club’s history will mean that the members will be able to take the club onward into the new millennium and that hockey will continue to be an integral part of the life of the town of Downpatrick.

We live in changing times, but it is a great pleasure to recognise the efforts of the club members over the past 100 years that have made this occasion possible.

WELL DONE

Richard Kendrick
Ulster Branch President
Irish Hockey Union