KERRY Kennedy has been appointed as the player-coach of Donaghadee Ladies Hockey Club ahead of the 2026/27 season.
A key member of the club’s first XI for the past 12 years, Kennedy will combine coaching duties with her role in midfield as the club prepares for the new campaign.
She brings a wealth of playing experience, having represented Ulster at Under-16, Under-18 and Under-21 level before playing for the Scottish Universities. Kennedy also spent a decade in the Ulster Premier League with Knock Ladies Hockey Club and has more recently represented Ulster at Over-40 and Over-45 level.
Her competitive edge was also evident when she captained the Knackered Knockers to victory in the inaugural Donaghadee Ladies Hockey Club Sixes tournament in 2024.
Welcoming the appointment, club treasurer Alison McNeice said: “Kerry has been a big part of the DLHC family for 12 years, so we were all hugely excited when the opportunity arose.
“She loves the club and her hockey CV speaks for itself. The experience she brings, combined with her understanding of what makes Donaghadee tick, gives us great optimism as we look ahead to the 2026/27 season.”
Kennedy’s dual role will see her lead training sessions while continuing to play a key part on the pitch each Saturday.
The club’s pre-season preparations begin later this month with four weeks of fitness sessions, led by personal trainer Stephen Montgomery, at the Commons in Donaghadee. The sessions will take place on Wednesday, July 22 and 29, and August 5 and 12 from 7.30pm to 8.30pm.
The club is encouraging existing players, former members and anyone interested in taking up hockey to come along and get involved ahead of the new season.
