Kilkenny Storm hockey stars shine on International Stage with Canadian triumph

Kilkenny Storm Inline Hockey Club is celebrating an extraordinary international achievement after five of its young players proudly represented Ireland at a prestigious ice hockey Sedmha tournament in Halifax Nova Scotia Canada bringing home both silver and gold medals against some of Canada’s strongest teams.

This Irish squads showcased determination, resilience and exceptional talent. This year, the Under-13 team featuring Indie Cummins and Josh Robinson both delivered an outstanding performance to secure a well-earned silver medal for Ireland.

Even more impressively, the Under-15 team, made up of Aidan Sweeney. Ludy Raftice, and Callum Robinson, went one step further claiming gold and lifting the coveted Sedmha Trophy after a series of dominant displays. Guiding them to victory was Kilkenny Storm’s own Paul Cummins, who served as head coach for the Under-15 squad.

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What makes this achievement truly remarkable is the challenging environment these players come from. Many of these players regularly undertake round trips of up to eight hours to Belfast, where they may only get limited ice time often just once a month.

In stark contrast, the Canadian teams they faced benefit from world-class infrastructure, with ice rinks located every 15 to 20 kilometres in many regions. The tournament itself, held in the heart of Nova Scotia, highlighted just how vast the difference in access and opportunity can be.

Yet despite these obstacles, the Kilkenny Storm players rose to the occasion demonstrating that passion, dedication, and perseverance can overcome even the toughest challenges.

Their success is not just a victory on the ice, but a powerful statement about the growth of Irish ice hockey and the potential of its young athletes.

Kilkenny Storm Inline Hockey Club would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported these players in their journey to Canada. From those who purchased raffle tickets to those who generously sponsored the players in recent weeks, your support made this incredible experience possible. Without this community backing, these young athletes would not have had the opportunity to compete on the international stage and achieve such unforgettable success.

The club has expressed immense pride in all five players and their achievements, as well as in coach Paul Cummins for his leadership and commitment.

These young athletes have not only represented Kilkenny Storm with distinction they have done their country proud.

Congratulations to Indie, Josh, Aidan, Ludy, and Callum on an unforgettable achievement.