Barclay Communications has signed up to sponsor Ulster Hockey Under 16s girls as the organisation marks 125 years.
Barclay Communications, the Belfast-based communications firm, has partnered with Ulster Hockey’s U16s girl’s team in a new sponsorship deal.
It comes as Ulster Hockey recently confirmed the Under 16 male and female squads for 2021-22 following a long period of assessments.
The partnership will see Barclay Communications appear on the U16 girl’s match and training kits, as well as sponsorship banners on match days.
The move also comes as the Ulster branch of the Irish Hockey Association marks 125 years in operation.
It was formed in December 1896 with North Down, Cliftonville and Antrim amongst the founding members.
While the exact date of the formation of the Ulster Women’s Hockey Union remains unknown, the first evidence of organised ladies hockey recorded is the Ulster Shield, which was first contested in 1896 making it one of the oldest ladies competitions in the world.
Barclay Communication’s association with the club resonates with its team, one of whom is Pamela Glass, a former Ireland and Pegasus hockey champion.
Pamela retired from the sport in 2020 following 30 years of success including being part of the team to win seven all-Ireland titles under the old format, winning six Irish Senior Cup medals, 13 Ulster Shield successes, 12 domestic league triumphs and numerous interprovincial crowns at Under-21 and senior level.
Speaking about the partnership, Britt Megahey, Barclay Communications, said: “We are always looking for ways to support the Northern Ireland community through our corporate social responsibility work and Ulster Hockey syncs with our ethos.
“Barclays is about communication and hockey is a sport that relies on great team communication to guarantee success.
“We also believe sport is an essential part of society and it helps children and young people foster a sense of community, it boosts their drive and promotes confidence. We know full well the benefits of being part of a sports team from childhood, having our own hockey star onboard here.
“It’s an honour to help support Ulster Hockey’s U16 girl’s team as they continue their road to success, during what is a very momentous year for them.”
Pamela Glass, Barclay Communications Head of Training and development and Ulster Hockey representative added:
“Having played hockey since the age of 14, I know full well how being part of a team can enrich a child’s life and set them up for the future.
“It teaches you things that last long after leaving the hockey pitch and offers lessons that can translate into all areas of life. Grassroots sports are an essential part of our society and I’m delighted that we, as a business, will have the opportunity to nurture a team I hold so close to my heart.”
Ulster Talent Coach Shirley McCay, said: “We are delighted to welcome Barclay Communications on board as our sponsor for the U16s Girls’ Team.
“These partnerships are essential in developing our team and cultivating these teams so that our players can enjoy a fruitful hockey career long into their adulthood.
“Businesses like Barclay Communications who invest in their communities are a true blessing to the sporting world.”
