Ireland Women must relish chance to show skill against Europe's best, insists boss after naming EuroHockey Championships panel
Ireland face the Netherlands – the world's No.1-ranked side – in the tournament opener on Saturday, August 9 (2.30pm BST) before clashes with France on Monday, August 11 (2.45pm BST) and hosts Germany on Wednesday, August 13 (7.00pm BST).
There are also several Northern Ireland-based players listed in the squad, including Belfast Harlequins defender Katie Larmour, Katie McKee and Charlotte Beggs in midfield and Coleraine native Katie Mullan, who is approaching her 250th appearance for Ireland, among the attacking options at Grundie's disposal.
'We're really excited to get going at the EuroHockey Championships,' said Grundie.
'It's a fantastic tournament and a great stage for us to test ourselves against the best teams in Europe.
'There's a great energy in the group, with a number of new faces getting their first taste of competition at this level. It's an invaluable opportunity for them to gain experience and make their mark.
'We're not here just to take part; we want to challenge the top sides and push hard for a place in the Semi-Finals.
'The players are ready, and we're looking forward to seeing what we can deliver.'
Fixtures:
Netherlands vs Ireland – Saturday, August 9 (2.30pm BST)
Ireland vs France – Monday, August 11 (2.45pm BST)
Ireland vs Germany – Wednesday, August 13 (7.00pm BST)
Ireland Women's squad: Elizabeth Murphy, Holly Micklem, Ellen Curran, Katie Larmour, Sarah McAuley, Hannah McLoughlin, Caoimhe Perdue, Roisin Upton, Charlotte Beggs, Michelle Carey, Christina Hamill, Sarah Hawkshaw, Emily Kealy, Katie McKee, Niamh Carey, Katie Mullan, Mikayla Power, Sarah Torrans.
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