We are delighted to announce that we will once again be sponsoring one of Ulster Hockey’s most prestigious competitions, the Kirk Cup, as it returns to annual sports fixtures after the pandemic.

The Kirk Cup is the oldest hockey tournament in Ulster and the oldest regional hockey trophy in Ireland.  Although the format of the competition has changed down through the years, the Kirk Cup has been competed for since the 1897-98 season.  The cup is named after its donor, Mr John Kirk, J.P, who was a member of Antrim Hockey Club.  Since its beginning until last season play has only been interrupted by two World Wars and extreme weather!

This is the second year the firm has supported Ulster Hockey, as part of our commitment to supporting sports from grass roots to elite level.

Christopher McCandless  remarked: “We are thrilled to once again be supporting the Kirk Cup.  We recognise the social, economic and cultural value of sport and the huge commitment it takes to be involved, whether that is playing, coaching or working at an administrative level. From junior through to professional sports, we support a number of teams and organisations in Northern Ireland – this partnership with Ulster Hockey is one we’re particularly proud of and look forward to seeing great hockey take place this Boxing Day.”

Marc Scott from Ulster Hockey commented: ““Ulster Hockey is delighted to see the return of competitive hockey following the disruption caused by the pandemic.  This year marks 125 years of competitive hockey in Ulster with the 2022 season marking the 125^th Anniversary of the Kirk Cup.

Absence has made the heart grow fonder and it is with great excitement that the 2021/22 season will see the tournament return, with the final taking place in its customary Boxing Day slot.  Ulster Hockey is delighted to partner with leading Northern Ireland Commercial and Private Client law firm Millar McCall Wylie as official sponsor for this important event”.