Ireland Inline Hockey star and Bangor resident Michael Creane has been boosted by a Phoenix Sports Bursary which has been awarded to him just in time for the World Roller Games, taking place in Barcelona this week.
Michael, who has been playing inline hockey since age 10 with local club Bangor Chiefs, has represented Ireland in the 2018 World Roller Games and he hopes that this year the team can rise further up the world rankings and break into the top 15.
In addition to being part of the Ireland and Bangor Chiefs Senior Men’s squads, Michael is passionate about developing the next generation of inline hockey players and has become a coach for the Bangor Chiefs Juniors teams implementing a player development programme and encouraging them to reach their potential.
The Phoenix Sports Bursary will help Michael with costs associated with training and travelling for the World Roller Games, allowing him to compete internationally.
Speaking ahead of the World Roller Games, Michael said: “I’m really proud to be representing Team Ireland this year at the World Roller Games and can’t thank Phoenix Energy enough for their support. I’ve had some incredible opportunities playing inline hockey and it’s really encouraging to see so many young people now getting involved locally and in the national teams. I hope we can inspire them further with more success at the World Roller Games this week.”
Jonathan Martindale, Executive Director at Phoenix Energy, said; “Being a responsible business is important to us at Phoenix Energy and we have developed a range of activities and initiatives to help communities reach their potential. We are delighted to be able to support Michael to achieve his goals and wish him every success for the World Roller Games and his future tournaments”.