Limerick based duo named in Irish hockey squad for Olympic qualifiers

CATHOLIC INSTITUTE duo Róisín Upton and Naomi Carroll have been named in the Irish hockey squad for their Olympic qualifiers in Spain.

The vastly experienced duo will take part in three games as Ireland take part in the tournament that will take place between January 13 and 20 in Valencia.

Upton and Carroll are part of an 18-strong squad of players that will face Belgium, Ukraine and Korea in the final qualifiers before the 2024 Summer games in Paris.

There are only 3 qualification places available from this tournament so it is essential Ireland finish second at least in the pool and preferably win their semi-final to ensure an Olympic spot.

A place could still be secured by the losing semi-finalists were they to win the 3rd place play-off.

"As a whole group we have used September to December to prepare differently," said Irish head coach Sean Dancer ahead of the trip to Valencia.

"Trying to use development opportunities to make specific gains for individuals. This has not only provided a change of stimulus, but also helped challenge the group in different ways.

"We have seen an increase in competition for places, which is credit to the group’s progress and individuals’ determination to succeed."