HOCKEY EXCLUSIVE: Carrick and Greenisland Ladies merger on the cards

The neighbouring clubs, who both play their home games at the Amphitheatre, finished seventh and eighth respectively in Senior 2 last season.

Breaking the news on social media, Carrick Ladies’ president Peter Stevenson penned the following statement to club members: “At an Extraordinary General Meeting of Carrickfergus Ladies Hockey Club (CLHC) held this evening (Monday, June 20), the members of CLHC approved unanimously a resolution to merge with Greenisland Ladies Hockey Club.

“At a separate meeting also held this evening, a similar resolution was approved by the members of Greenisland Ladies Hockey Club.”

The Times understands the EGMs were held simultaneously by both clubs and they have since sent a ‘jointly-worded notification’ to Ulster Hockey confirming the decision and seeking approval to retain respective positions in next season’s league structure.

Stevenson said further discussions will now take place between elected representatives of both clubs to firm up on details and agree a consolidated plan for the 2016/2017 season.

He added: “We very much look forward to this exciting new era of ladies’ hockey within the borough which we firmly believe will provide enhanced opportunities for existing members of both clubs and for those who will be joining us in the forthcoming season and beyond.”