As posted on the Banbridge Hockey Club Facebook page
Welcome to Alix and Paul as our Club Chaplains.
Sports Chaplaincy UK are a Christian charity who train and equip chaplains to serve within sports settings. Chaplains are primarily encouragers but are also excellent listeners trained to help people navigate through difficulties in life and to provide pastoral care and support for everyone.
Philip Mitchell who heads up sports chaplaincy in Ireland commented “Well done to Banbridge Hockey Club for making these appointments and I would like to thank the committee , Cathrine Reid-Henderson and John Bell in particular for their interest and recognition that having female and male sports chaplains is an important step for the club in providing holistic support for players, staff, administrators, volunteers and families across the whole club . In Alix Magowan -Wilton and Paul Hanna , the club have appointed through Sports Chaplaincy UK and Ireland two individuals who we wholeheartedly endorse and look forward to supporting in their respective roles , serving at Banbridge Hockey Club”
About Alix – Alix is a wife and mum to two hockey loving daughters . She is a trained children and young peoples counsellor and currently works in Education supporting post primary students with their mental and emotional well-being . She also serves with the young people in her church. Alix is a veteran hockey player and is a member of the mighty fours at Banbridge hockey club . “As a player chaplain I am excited to give back to the club that has been so supportive of me and added so much to my own well-being . I hope to be an encouraging and positive presence around the club and a source of comfort , support and empathy to any player / member who needs a listening ear ,someone to journey difficult times with and a safe person to go to in times of uncertainty.
About Paul – Paul is a husband and father and has lived in Banbridge for over 20 years. He currently works in the public sector and serves in his local church. “ We are all aware of the many challenges that affect our lives today. While sport can provide us with opportunities to keep healthy and active, athletes can often require the help and support of others in areas that may impact on their emotional, spiritual or mental well-being. In my role as a Sports Chaplain I would endeavour to provide pastoral care to players and staff in a friendly, compassionate and confidential way that hopefully would address their needs and concerns “.
If you would like to avail of support or make contact with your sports chaplain please do not hesitate to get in touch on the following emails . They are happy to help and here for you.
alixmwilton@gmail.com
p.hanna@btinternet.com