Meet IMAGE staffer Megan Burns, hockey player and editorial powerhouse

In the first instalment of our IMAGE Active series, we sit down with Megan Burns, the ultra-talented editor of IMAGE Interiors magazine and deputy editor of IMAGE magazine. Beyond her editorial expertise, Megan is a dedicated hockey player, channelling her passion for the sport both on and off the pitch.

Inspired by her mother who played for Ireland’s international team, Megan’s love for hockey is a palpable combination of both nature and nurture. Here, she shares what keeps her motivated and how the sport has helped her find community in every life stage.

How did you become involved in hockey?

I started playing hockey because of my mum, who played senior international hockey for Ireland and still plays Irish Masters hockey. Throughout my childhood, she played and coached hockey, so it was only natural that I gave it a try too, and quickly loved it. My two sisters and I play, so hockey is always a main topic of conversation in our house!

How long have you been involved?

I started playing when I was around eight years old and had the opportunity to play regularly in secondary school. I’ve kept it up since I left school, more than 10 years ago.

What do you enjoy the most about the sport?

There are so many things I love about hockey. I enjoy the game itself; it’s fast-paced and blends both individual skill and teamwork. And, as someone who enjoys friendly competition, I love having matches each week, the highs and lows of a season with your team, and the opportunity to learn from our mistakes and improve together. I also love that it’s a fun way to keep fit – I never notice how tired I am when I’m chasing after a ball.

For me, the most important aspect of hockey, though, is the friendships it has given me. I’ve played hockey in many different places, and each time it instantly gives you a network of new friends.

Have you made friendships/grown a network?

Meeting new people and having a network have been a really important aspect of hockey for me. I’ve moved to several new places throughout my life, and joining a hockey club has always been the best way to make friends and meet people you wouldn’t otherwise. Regular training and matches mean you soon get to know people, and there’s nothing like the camaraderie of being on a team to forge new friendships.

Do you enjoy additional sports or activities?

Hockey is the only sport I play competitively, but I also enjoy running, swimming, and racquet sports. I also try to do yoga a few times a week at home.

What advice do you have for someone who is interested in joining a new sport/club/team/activity?

Don’t doubt yourself and go for it! Any club or activity is always delighted to see new members, and the first day you show up will always be the most nerve-wracking – after that you’ll know a few faces and it’s much easier.

I also think it’s important to remember that you don’t have to be good at a sport to take part in it. As something of a perfectionist, I can find myself falling into the mindset of “I’m not good at that, so I shouldn’t do it,” but there are always options for people at different levels, you just have to find the one that suits you.

IMAGE Active is an exciting series of exercise-driven events, motivating meet-ups, and empowering content to help you achieve new levels of physical health, offering encouragement, support, and empowerment every step of the way. At its core, it is about coming together to form connections, cultivate healthy habits, and feel better than ever. So, stay tuned and check out our hub for regular updates on all upcoming events and content.