Ronan Murphy to become next CEO of Hockey Ireland

Hockey Ireland has appointed Ronan Murphy as its new chief executive officer, following the exit of Jerome Pels.

Murphy, who will take up the role in October, boasts a vast range of experience in sports governance, business leadership and strategic planning.

From 2017 to 2020, he was the CEO of Horse Sport Ireland, implementing a complete restructuring of the organisation based on the Department of Agriculture's Indecon report recommendations.

Most recently, he has headed the Irish Limousin Cattle Society, which covers all aspects of marketing, administration and promotion of the breed.

He also serves as a board member of Dressage Ireland and has recently chaired the European Equestrian Federation EU Committee.

"I am excited to take up the role of CEO with Hockey Ireland as the sport looks to continue its recent growth and rise to prominence in Irish sporting life," Murphy said after his appointment was confirmed.

"I see many aspects of hockey in Ireland that we can augment and develop, and I look forward to working with the staff, the board, provinces, clubs, members, sponsors and the grassroots of the sport to implement our strategic ambition and to realise the full potential of the sport across all levels, from the very earliest participation and development pathways, to delivering championship and Olympic success for Team Ireland."

His appointment follows Pels' move from Hockey Ireland to the chief executive role at England Boxing. Nick McElwee will continue to act as interim CEO at Hockey Ireland until Murphy takes the reins.

Hockey Ireland chair Trevor Watkins said of his appointment: "We are delighted that Ronan Murphy will head up the team in Hockey Ireland to continue to drive and implement our ambitious strategy and