Sport Ireland Congratulates World Cup Silver Medalists

Ireland are the 2018 Women’s Hockey World Cup silver medalists after a thrilling tournament in London reached a conclusion today.

Although ranked 16th in the world coming into the tournament, Ireland overcame all who came before them to set-up a final showdown with world number one The Netherlands at the Lee Valley Hockey Centre today.

Although today’s final didn’t go Ireland’s way, the team made history by becoming the country’s first ever world cup finalists in a team sport and captured the imagination of the Irish public along the way.

Chairman of Sport Ireland, Kieran Mulvey, today congratulated the team on the silver medal.

Mr Mulvey said: “Ireland are World Cup silver medallists, a truly fantastic achievement by the team. For the last two weeks they have made the Irish public stand up and take notice through the composure, determination, passion and pride they have demonstrated in coming through tough battles with higher-ranked opposition – all done with a smile on their face. On behalf of Sport Ireland I would like to congratulate the history makers Graham Shaw, Katie Mullan, the entire squad and all associated with the team’s journey – we are all so proud.”

Chief Executive of Sport Ireland, John Treacy, added: “The Irish players have been magnificent all tournament. They deservedly took their place in today’s final where they played with such heart and fought to very end. It’s important to also acknowledge the role played by the team behind the team. Coach Graham Shaw, his coaching team and of course the players’ families have all shown immense dedication over many years and have played such an important part in Ireland’s World Cup journey. A special mention too to the many supporters who made the trip to London to cheer on the Green Army; the team really captured the hearts of the nation. On behalf of the Irish sporting community, our heartfelt congratulations to the team, coaches, families, supports and all the staff in Hockey Ireland on an absolutely fantastic World Cup campaign.”

A civic reception will be held in Dublin on Monday, August 6th, to congratulate and welcome the team home, details of which will be shared on Sport Ireland’s Twitter account @sportireland.