The Flying Ducks were established in 2015 following discussions between the 2 Dublin based junior ice hockey clubs, Flyers Ice Hockey Club and the Dublin Ducks, about the possibility of merging the 2 teams. This had come about as both teams had collaborated previously several times in games and tournaments. Both the Ducks and Flyers had a number of players but there were deficiencies in the number of children in various age brackets. There was a willingness on the part of all involved in both teams coming together; particularly from the younger members of the club who were already “friends” on the Facebook and Instagram. The Flyers and Ducks collaborated on ice time at Point Village on Ice and a decision was made to put it to the members of the club about the new future of the 2 teams. This was done following a training session at the Point Village ice rink. Some of the junior members delivered a PowerPoint Presentation of the pros and cons of having a combined team as well as the revealing of a provisional jersey design; again by junior members of both teams. The decision of those present was obvious; join forces!
Following the Annual General Meetings (AGMs) of both teams the decision was made to consolidate into the Flying Ducks; a name which had already been used to describe the coming together of the “Flyers” and “Ducks”. It fitted well and the young players loved it. The merger meant that the team could have greater numbers of players in various categories which meant more age appropriate training and greater numbers in the team. With agreement in place the first AGM of the Flying Ducks took place at Sports HQ in the National Sports Campus in Blanchardstown in April which was very well attended. At the AGM the inaugural Executive Committee was elected and a number of people took up supporting roles such as Child Protection Officer, Equipment Manager and Fundraising Officer.
Since the merger of the teams the Flying Ducks have grown substantially in size, the team jersey, with the outstanding design work of genius Kevin Robert, looks superb and our players, coaches and parents now have a stronger team which has potential to do very well in the sport of ice hockey. Training is conducted now with players within specific age brackets which provides all with the opportunity to develop their skills and grow as players.
The Flying Ducks are now well established and have been very active since inauguration; including a visit to the United Kingdom (UK) to take part in the Godiva Cup in Coventry in May 2015.