In 2018, SoftCo began its sponsorship of the Irish Women’s Hockey Team as they embarked on their unforgettable World Cup 2018 journey. Overcoming formidable opponents like the USA, India, and Spain in nail-biting matches, they ultimately reached the Finals, winning a silver medal. Recognizing the team’s incredible achievements, in August 2021 SoftCo extended its sponsorship of the Ladies Senior team, and the partnership was further expanded to include the Under 21 and Under 23 development squads. Adding to their remarkable journey, these exceptional women achieved their dream of representing Ireland in the Olympics once again, in Tokyo 2021.
Paul Nolan has become one of the most high profile National Hunt Horse Racing Trainers over the last number of years. In conjunction with his brother James, the Nolan Yard has experienced significant success and substantial investment in recent times and in 2020 the yard will have approximately 100 horses in training. Paul began his National Hunt training career in 1996 and since then his stables have produced numerous high profile winners including ‘Joncol’, winner of the 2010 Hennessy Gold Cup in Leopardstown, ‘Noble Prince’, winner of the 2011 Jewson Novices’ Steeple Chase at the famous Cheltenham Festival and ‘Defy Logic’, winner of the Grade 1 Racing Post Novice Steeplechase. His latest superstar is SoftCo’s very own Mrs. Milner who won the Pertemps Network Final at the Cheltenham Festival.
In January 2022, SoftCo announced that it had signed an agreement with Hockey Ireland to become the main sponsors of the Irish Men’s National team and both development squads. This historic development signifies a significant milestone in Irish National Sport, as it marks the first time that both the Irish men and women’s teams receive equal levels of support. This alignment perfectly resonates with hockey’s commitment to promoting gender equality in terms of opportunities and ambitions. With SoftCo’s unwavering support, the Irish men’s team successfully achieved their ambition of qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This partnership not only strengthens the team’s pursuit of excellence but also serves as a testament to SoftCo’s dedication to fostering the growth and success of Irish hockey on the global stage.