Next up in our Spotlight section, Meet the Board of Directors, we introduce Cathy Minehane, MBHI Vice President
Here Cathy shines the spotlight on her hockey background….
I bring more than 45 years of involvement in hockey to my role as Vice President of Munster Branch of Hockey Ireland (MBHI).
Growing up, my family moved frequently due to my father’s work, and I lived in the UK, Northern Ireland, Limerick, Germany and Holland before spending time in Dublin and ultimately settling in Cork, where I have been based for the past 36 years.
I was educated at Our Lady’s School, Terenure, where I first discovered hockey. While swimming and tennis were my main sports initially, hockey quickly became my lifelong passion. After a professional career with Heineken, I stepped into what I like to call a “career volunteer” role following the birth of my two children.
Although I had long been aware of Munster Hockey, I became directly involved three years ago while serving as Chairperson of my club, Cork Harlequins. When the role of Chair of Munster became vacant, I put myself forward, recognising that I had both the time and commitment required to contribute at Branch level.
My vision for Munster Hockey is to continue growing the sport across the province, with a particular focus on strengthening the men’s and boys’ sections, which have faced challenges in recent years. As Vice President, my role is to support our President, Nicky Stokes, and to represent MBHI at official appointments and events when required.
One of the biggest challenges facing MBHI is a lack of understanding within the wider hockey community of the work carried out by the Branch. I firmly believe that visibility and engagement are key, and that the most effective way to build connection is by getting out to clubs and meeting people face to face.
One of my most memorable moments to date in my role as Vice President of the Munster branch of Hockey Ireland (MBHI) was the opening of the new pitch at Catholic Institute — a fantastic occasion attended by club representatives, the Minister for Sport and the CEO of Hockey Ireland.
What I enjoy most about my role is meeting people across the hockey community, both provincially and nationally. For me, the greatest strength of hockey in Ireland is its close-knit, family-oriented community — a network where everyone knows everyone and supports the game together.
Fun Facts about Cathy:
Favourite Film: The Lord of the Rings
Favourite Hobby: Pickleball
First Concert: Black Sabbath and Motörhead
Favourite Travel Destinations: Africa and Sri Lanka (I have been to every continent except Antarctica which is on the list!)
One Thing I Can’t Live Without: A good book