Club Governance

At Killiney Shankill Hockey Club, we believe that strong governance is essential to running a safe, welcoming and well‑organised community club. Our governance framework ensures transparency, accountability and fairness for all members — from our youngest players to our most experienced volunteers.

This page outlines how the club is structured, how decisions are made, and the policies that guide our work on and off the pitch.

1. Constitution

Our Constitution sets out the rules by which the club operates, including membership, committee structure, finance, safeguarding and disciplinary procedures.

Download: Killiney Shankill Hockey Club Constitution (PDF) Last updated: 18th May 2026

The Constitution is reviewed annually and may only be amended by members at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) or an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM).

2. Club Committee

The Club Committee is elected each year at the AGM and is responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the club.

Club Officers

  • Chairperson – Dennis O’Connor; Provides leadership and oversees club governance
  • Honorary Secretary – Al Robinson; Manages administration, meetings and communication
  • Treasurer – Daniel Abels; Oversees club finances and financial reporting

Additional Committee Roles

  • Children’s Officer – Ivonne Yanely Olmos Aquino
  • Designated Person – Al Robinson
  • Ordinary Committee Members – TBC

3. Policies & Codes of Conduct

We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for everyone involved in the club. The following policies guide our behaviour and decision‑making:

Core Governance Policies

  • Safeguarding Children Policy – TBC
  • Code of Conduct (Players, Coaches, Parents & Spectators) – TBC
  • Equity & Inclusion Policy – TBC
  • Disciplinary & Appeals Procedure – TBC
  • Data Protection / GDPR Statement – TBC
  • Photography & Social Media Policy – TBC

4. Safeguarding

The welfare of children and young people is central to everything we do.

Our Safeguarding Commitment

  • We follow the Hockey Ireland Safeguarding Policy
  • We ensure all coaches and volunteers working with young people are Garda‑vetted
  • We provide clear reporting procedures for concerns or incidents

Key Contacts

  • Club Children’s Officer: Ivonne Yanely Olmos Aquino – TBC
  • Designated Liaison Person: Al Robinson – TBC

Full safeguarding information is available here.

5. Membership Governance

Membership of Killiney Shankill Hockey Club is open to all, in line with our Equity Policy. Our Constitution outlines:

  • Membership categories
  • Rights and responsibilities
  • Voting rights
  • How membership is approved
  • How fees are set and reviewed

Details on joining or renewing can be found here – coming soon!

6. Annual General Meeting (AGM)

The AGM is held each year to review the club’s progress, elect officers and approve key decisions.

We publish:

  • AGM notice (minimum 21 days in advance)
  • Agenda
  • Nomination forms
  • Minutes of previous AGMs
  • Annual reports (Chair, Secretary, Treasurer)

7. Finance & Transparency

We are committed to responsible financial management.

  • The Treasurer presents annual accounts at the AGM
  • Accounts are independently reviewed each year
  • All payments require dual authorisation
  • Funds are used solely to support club activities, coaching, youth development and facilities

A summary of annual accounts is published after each AGM.

8. Our Values

Killiney Shankill Hockey Club is built on the values of:

  • Respect
  • Fairness
  • Community
  • Enjoyment
  • Player development
  • Volunteer spirit

These values guide our decisions and shape the culture of our club.