For Grays Hockey athlete and Irish international Jessie McMaster, 2026 is already proving to be a landmark year. From making history in the FIH Pro League to chasing World Cup qualification, it’s been a whirlwind few months for the Irish Women’s team – and we’re all here for it.
We recently caught up with Jessie during a five-week international tour to talk about competing at the highest level, life on the road, and the excitement building ahead of the current World Cup Qualifiers in Santiago, Chile.
1. Making FIH Pro League History
This season marks a historic milestone. Ireland’s national team participated in the Pro League for the very first time. On home soil, the crowds flooded the stands in Dublin as the team rubbed shoulders with some of the world’s best squads.
“We are incredibly excited to be competing in the Pro League this season. It gives us the opportunity to test ourselves against the best teams in the world.”
For Jessie and her teammates, wearing the iconic green jersey in this elite competition is about more than just the results, it’s about being a part of an ever-growing legacy.
“To be part of the first Irish Women’s team ever to play in this competition is special and playing the first leg on home soil in Dublin in front of an Irish crowd is a moment we’ll never forget!”
Competing against world-class opposition week in, week out has been the ideal test for a squad built on passion and belief. Closing out the second stage of the tournament with their first ever Pro League win was a defining moment in their journey.
“We are especially delighted to close out the second stage of the Pro League with our first ever win in the competition. Finishing on a high gives us real confidence and momentum and we shift our focus to the World Cup Qualifiers.”
2. Five Weeks on Tour: Tasmania to Santiago
After completing the second stage of the Pro League in Tasmania, Australia, the team headed to Santiago, Chile for the ultimate challenge - World Cup qualification. Being away for 5 weeks, travelling the globe is no small undertaking!
“Being away for 5 weeks sounds like a long time and living out of a suitcase can be tough at times! When you’re competing at this level, travelling the world with your teammates and representing your country, it’s a real privilege. The long days, the flights and the time away from home are all part of the journey and it’s one we’re happy to be on together.”
The shared experience of touring, celebrating the highest of highs, embracing the lows, hitting brutal training sessions, and the intense hype that matchdays brings can only strengthens the group’s bond.
3. World Cup Qualification – Ireland’s Calling
The focus now shifts firmly to securing a place at the Women’s Hockey World Cup, one of the sport’s most prestigious competitions which will be held in the Netherlands and Belgium in August later this year.
“The World Cup is one of the most prestigious competitions in hockey and qualifying is our main goal of this trip. We know we have been drawn in a tough group and need to perform at our very best in each game.”
Preparation has been key, facing elite opposition such as Argentina and Australia in the Pro League has provided invaluable experience under pressure.
“Playing the Pro League has been the ideal preparation for us leading into the tournament… we’ve gained valuable experience at the highest level.”
With momentum building, and confidence high - the belief within the squad is clear to see.
4. Backed On The Biggest Stage
At the heart of historic firsts, to high-pressure qualifiers - Jessie McMaster continues to showcase the resilience, ambition and performance mindset that defines both Ireland and Grays Hockey athletes.
The midfielder backs our 25/26 range, choosing the Grays Hockey JB9 hockey stick and the Touch Pro glove as her go to matchday essentials.
Along with Jessie, numerous Irish teammates follow suit and back our latest range at the top of their game: Hannah McLoughlin, Mia Jennings, Lisa Mulcahy & Amy Handcock – JB8 Hockey Stick, International Pro Glove, AeroCage X Hockey Shoes & G600 Shinguards, Touch Glove, Anatomic Glove
