More than forty young people participated in an action-packed ice hockey camp as part of the highly successful HEROS cross-community programme – an initiative that uses ice hockey as a tool to inspire and motivate young participants.

Now in its 17th year, the programme brings together young people from diverse backgrounds in Lisburn, Belfast, Holywood, and from Swords and Finglas in Dublin. Throughout the week, the group received expert coaching from Canadian hockey players, culminating in a "big game" on the final evening where they could demonstrate their newly acquired skills.

The HEROS programme was developed through a collaboration of youth partners including Crosscare, Army Welfare Services, and Ballynafeigh Community Development Association, alongside international partners H.E.R.O.S Canada. This successful model, first established in Canada in 2000, has since helped develop life skills and empower over 17,000 young people. Its success has been mirrored in Northern Ireland through the local HEROS programme.

Councillor Alan Givan, Vice Chairman of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, dropped the puck at the final game: "This is the 17th year, council has welcomed the HEROS programme to Dundonald International Ice Bowl. The initiative continues to be a tremendous success and is met with such enthusiasm and commitment from everyone involved."

Councillor Givan praised the participants, noting that many had only recently started skating, while others were returning in leadership roles. He emphasised the role of sport in fostering teamwork and understanding.

"Sport plays an important role in bringing young people together to take part in positive activity which promotes a culture of teamwork and understanding for one another," Givan said.

"I would like to thank the organisers and Canadian HEROS volunteers for delivering such an innovative programme which will hopefully have a major impact on the lives of participants as they apply their new skills and experiences off the ice."