Wales to take part in EuroHockey Championships ID 2027
Hoci Cymru is delighted to announce its participation in the EuroHockey Championships ID 2027, for the very first time.
This historic moment comes after hard work and planning over the past three years, collaborating with Disability Sport Wales, Special Olympics, schools, clubs and Team GB to get to a stage where we can send a team to this incredible event in London.
The tournament will play alongside the EuroChamps27, meaning our ID players will represent their nation alongside the senior Men and Women next summer.
In Wales' debut appearance at EuroHockey Championships ID 2027, the side will battle it out against 11 other countries.
“We’re delighted that Wales will be taking part in the EuroHockey Championships ID for the first time next year,” said Joe Gage, Hoci Cymru’s Head of Development. “Growing our inclusion provision has been a key strategic driver for Hoci Cymru over the last three years, and we’re really proud of the opportunities that have been created across Wales in that time. To now see athletes with an intellectual disability representing their country at a major international competition is a fantastic result of that work.
Hockey ID is an adapted form of field hockey for athletes with intellectual disabilities, with a global reach of over 20 countries. It is designed to provide an inclusive and competitive environment where players can develop their hockey skills, build confidence, improve fitness and enjoy being part of a team.
The sport has grown across Europe courtesy of the brilliant work done by EuroHockey over the years, and Hoci Cymru is grateful for the support that the organisation has provided as we enter teams into the EuroHockey Championships ID for the first time.
Over recent years, we have showcased in different settings across Wales how inclusive hockey can be at Insport events, festivals, local authority sport days and frequent school sessions.
We have also trained coaches to support our journey along the way, and are now looking to expand with our own Hockey ID coaching team.
“Planning is already well underway, and over the coming months we’ll be recruiting players, coaches and support staff to help us deliver this,” stated Joe Gage. “Keep an eye on our channels for more information on how you can get involved, we can’t wait to get started.”
In preparation for the EuroHockey Championships ID next year, we’re looking for Team Managers, Head Coaches, Assistant Coaches, and Physios for both the North and South.
We will also be on the look out for players, with training sessions and trials to be announced in due course.
“Entering our first Hockey ID team into the EuroHockey Championships ID in 2027 is a significant milestone for Hoci Cymru,” stated Chelsea Jenkins, Hockey Development Officer and Inclusion Lead at Hoci Cymru. “We’re proud to create new opportunities, showcase our players’ talent and passion, and demonstrate that hockey is a game for everyone.”
Hockey ID is generally played by mixed-gender teams of six players on a half-sized pitch, with rules and coaching approaches designed to support participation and development. Hockey ID is recognised internationally and is part of the wider Para Hockey programme, with opportunities to compete at club, national and international levels.
Tom Pederson-Smith, Head of Strategy and Development at EuroHockey, shared his “delight to be working alongside Hoci Cymru as they prepare to take part in this historic moment.
“To see Wales enter a national team in the EuroHockey Championships ID 2027 in London is both inspiring and significant. It reflects the growth of inclusive hockey, the power of sport to create opportunities for all, and the commitment of everyone involved in making our game more accessible.
“We look forward to supporting Wales on this exciting journey and celebrating what promises to be a landmark milestone for hockey across Europe.”
