Many players, umpires and administrative officials have brought representative honours to the club throughout the years and another highlight of note is the unparalleled success of the club’s Indoor Hockey squad who won a record number of Ulster League titles and peaked with All Ireland success in 1990.

On the individual front, Joanne Menown and Julie Stewart shared the rare distinction of playing for the Senior Irish team while still at school. Joanne also went on to represent the Great Britain team. International umpire, Alison McCloskey, umpired both the Ulster Shield and All Ireland finals in 2003.

Some members of Ards Successful Junior Club

Tamara Stronge also represented Ireland and more recently Naomi Elliott, Emma Ferguson, Caroline Adams and Hannah Coey have earned Ulster representative honours in their age group. Current 1st XI player Katy Fraser has also represented the Ulster Senior team.

Norma Gartside has been an Ambassador for Irish, Ulster and Club hockey. Norma is currently Vice-Chairman of the IHA Management Board, in fact she has been a member of the IHA's management team since its inception in 2000. From a club perspective, Norma Gartside has been a dedicated member of Ards Hockey Club and continues to provide support and advice to the club committee on a regular basis. Norma took over the position of Club President last year when Joan Kennedy stepped down from the role after 30 years.

A commitment to developing the junior side of the game has led to numerous young players moving through the ranks and a number have recently progressed through to the 1st XI and with a strong youth policy the future is bright for Ards LHC.

© 2006 ALHC

ARDS LADIES HOCKEY CLUB

About ALHC

ALHC History

Founded in 1921-22 as Ards Hockey and Lacrosse Club.

1930's Ards had players of international calibre and the club enjoyed considerable success throughout the decade.

Early 1960's the all-conquering squad of players combined to reach provincial and national heights with success in the Ulster Shield and the All Ireland Cup in 1963.

Ards LHC had a strong association with Regent House and shared resources and playing expertise further developed the club throughout subsequent years.

1970's and 80's most of the home games were played on the gravel pitches at Portaferry Road. A farsighted group of players and officials made the brave decision to train and play 1st XI games on astroturf at Jordanstown - sacrificing true home advantage in the interests of progress.

The exile was only temporary as a ‘gang of four’ obtained a grant of £150,000 from the Sports Foundation which constituted the club’s contribution to the original synthetic pitch at Ards Leisure Centre.