Hospice Hockey scores big for charity with over £109,000 raised for Northern Ireland Hospice

Team Horizon and Team Somerton celebrating on the ice at The SSE Arena, Belfast.

A sell-out crowd, star-studded line-up, and an atmosphere of generosity combined to make Hospice Hockey at The SSE Arena, Belfast, a landmark success, raising a remarkable £109,692 in aid of Northern Ireland Hospice.

Organised by The Odyssey Trust as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations, the charity ice hockey match featured a memorable exhibition game that brought together past and present Belfast Giants, alongside high-profile names from sport and entertainment.

Notable participants included Sheldon Keefe, Head Coach of the New Jersey Devils; former Premier League goalkeeper Petr Čech; Ulster and Ireland rugby star Craig Gilroy; Blue Lights actress Siân Brooke; and Derry Girls favourite Jamie-Lee O’Donnell.

Four-time Paralympic gold medallist, Michael McKillop, and star of Derry Girls, Jamie-Lee O’Donnell, celebrating with Team Horizon.

The evening showcased the unique community spirit and generosity that underpin Belfast’s sporting culture.

A night to remember

The event saw The SSE Arena reach full capacity, as supporters gathered for a night of celebration and fundraising.

Activities throughout the day included a private skating session for Northern Ireland Hospice service users and families, as well as a junior friendly match featuring the U12 and U14 Junior Belfast Giants, motivated by inspirational talks from Keefe and former NHL player David Clarkson.

Former professional boxer, Paddy Barnes, participating in sled hockey for Team Somerton.

Speaking after the event, Martin McDowell, Chair of The Odyssey Trust, said:

“The success of Hospice Hockey reflects the very best of what can be achieved through collaboration, generosity, and community spirit.

“We are deeply moved by the support shown by everyone involved, from the organisers and volunteers whose tireless efforts made the event possible to our partners, suppliers, and the thousands of spectators who came together to make the night truly special.”

The funds raised came through ticket sales, merchandise, online raffles, in-game activities, and a gala dinner hosted at the Belfast Harbour Commissioners Office the night before the match.

2024/25 Belfast Giants player, David Goodwin, representing Team Horizon.

Supporting vital Hospice care

All proceeds from Hospice Hockey will go directly to Northern Ireland Hospice, which delivers specialist palliative care to over 4,000 babies, children, and adults each year.

The Odyssey Trust, which oversees The SSE Arena, Stena Line Belfast Giants, W5 Science & Discovery Centre, and W5 LIFE, has long held the aim of improving social welfare across Northern Ireland. This milestone fundraising event reinforces its commitment to delivering on those charitable objectives.

McDowell continued:

“As The Odyssey Trust celebrates its 25th anniversary, this event stands as a powerful testament to the values that have shaped our journey. More than a fundraising milestone, it was an opportunity to stand in solidarity with those facing life-limiting illnesses, and to honour the extraordinary care provided by Northern Ireland Hospice. We are proud to have played our part in such a meaningful cause.”

Ongoing Support

With fundraising efforts still continuing, organisers have announced that the final donation total will be confirmed in the coming weeks. Members of the public can still contribute to this vital cause.

For more information about Hospice Hockey or to make an additional donation, please click here.