It is a tremendous honour to be President of Down Hockey Club as it celebrates its centenary year.

As a former player, I enjoyed the crack and the camaraderie every Saturday and while winning was always important, being part of  a great club and playing a sport I loved was success enough for me.

During my time on the pitch I played for the club’s second, third and fourth elevens and although many things have changed since I began my playing career, the biggest change has been the surface.

When I began playing all those years ago the games were played on the grass pitch in front of the Bowling Club at the Strangford Road and while the pitch had a reputation for being heavy, it hosted many thrilling clashes over the years.

Now of course the club plays its games on the shale surface while the majority of other clubs play on water or sand-based astro-turf pitches. And who knows, perhaps Down will one day soon have its own synthetic surface.

Throughout my association with Down Hockey Club there has been one key factor which has been one of the mainstays of the club and that is its tremendous spirit.

There is always a competitive, but sporting approach to every game, and at the final whistle it is time for a shower and a change to settle down for a drink to discuss the match.

I am delighted to hold the office of President during this very special season in the history of Down Hockey Club and wish it continued success in the next 100 years.

I just hope the players who are with the club at this moment in time get as much pleasure and enjoyment out of the sport as I did.

This season has been a difficult one for the club, but I have no doubt it will be able to regenerate itself and can look forward to the 21st century with renewed vigour and confidence.

Brian Murray
Club President