The inaugural Tim Leeming Charity Shield pre-season mixed hockey tournament will take place next month.

The first edition of the event is set to take place on Saturday, September 5 at the NSC ahead of the 2026-27 campaign getting underway, and it is hoped it will become a permanent fixture in the local hockey calendar.

The tournament has been named in honour of Tim Leeming, the former chairman of the Manx Hockey Association, in recognition of his outstanding commitment and dedication to the development of hockey in the Isle of Man over many years.

His contribution to the sport has helped shape the game locally, making the new Charity Shield a fitting tribute to his legacy.

Designed as a competitive pre-season event, the tournament will provide the island’s top mixed teams with an opportunity to prepare for the league and cup campaigns ahead.

Organisers hope the event will serve as the official curtain-raiser to each hockey season, bringing players, clubs and supporters together after the summer break and building excitement for the months ahead.

The competition will showcase a high standard of hockey and offers a fantastic opportunity for supporters to get behind their clubs.

The MHA is particularly encouraging junior players and their families to attend, watch their club’s senior teams in action and enjoy an exciting day of hockey.

'We hope this event will not only provide valuable preparation for our leading teams, but also inspire the next generation of players,' said Paul Nuttall from the association.

'Seeing experienced players competing at a high level can be a great motivation for younger players as they look forward to the new season.'

The Charity Shield will also have a strong fundraising focus. A 50/50 raffle will be held both in the lead-up to and during the event, with all clubs encouraged to sell tickets to members, families and supporters.

Proceeds raised will equally shared; half will be invested directly into the development of junior hockey in the island and the balance will support Manx Hockey’s charity partner, Isle Listen, which provides vital mental health support and services for young people across the Isle of Man.

The tournament format has been designed to ensure a full day of competitive hockey. Teams will play 11-a-side matches on a full pitch, with games lasting approximately 20 minutes and squads limited to a maximum of 16 players.

The competing teams will be split into two pools, with each side playing every other team in its group once. The winners of each pool will then progress to the final, which is scheduled to take place at approximately 4.15pm.

Play will begin at around 9.30am and continue throughout the day, culminating in the final and a trophy presentation for the winning team. A player of the match award will also be presented following the final.

Spectators will be able to enjoy refreshments throughout the day, with the Hospice coffee van providing snacks and drinks from approximately 10am until 4pm.

With competitive hockey, community fundraising and a celebration of one of the sport’s most respected local figures, the inaugural Tim Leeming Charity Shield promises to be a memorable start to the new season and an event that organisers hope will become a long-standing tradition for Manx hockey.

PAUL NUTTALL