![Ulster Angling Federation Logo.jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/7511be_a4c5169c18dc4644a36488f471356e0a~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_213,h_213,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Ulster%20Angling%20Federation%20Logo.jpg)
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Meet the Team
See below for more information about the Ulster Angling Federation Team. You can view the list of officers and directors below.
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Chairman & Coach Educator
Gary Houston
Gary is a dedicated figure within the angling community, providing invaluable advice, information, and guidance to angling clubs and their officers.
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He is instrumental in lobbying government, identifying and delivering cutting-edge training and programmes, empowering clubs to thrive and fostering accessible and sustainable participation opportunities.
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Gary’s passion for angling knows no bounds. An avid enthusiast of sea, coarse, and game fishing, he has proudly represented Ireland on the ITFFA rivers team. His dedication extends to volunteering with local clubs, and River Trusts, where his efforts have significantly improved angling practices and water quality.
Gary's deep-rooted love for the sport makes him a driving force when lobbying the government on behalf of the angling community.​​​​​​​​
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Treasurer
Jim Haughey
Jim Haughey, the Federation Treasurer and a long-standing director since 1982, has been a cornerstone of the angling community. With a rich history of leadership, he has also served as the Federation's chairman.
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Jim's influence extends beyond the Federation. He has played pivotal roles on the old Fisheries Conservancy Board, the DAERA Salmon and Inland Fisheries Advisory Forum, and the Loughs Agency Advisory Forum, where his insights and decisions have shaped the future of angling.
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As the visionary Chairman of the North Atlantic Salmon Fund (NI), which he co-founded with Newell McCreight in the early 1990s, Jim was instrumental in orchestrating Northern Ireland's first salmon net buyout in 2001, marking a historic milestone in conservation efforts.
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Jim's unwavering commitment to maintaining good habitat underscores his belief that it is the cornerstone of fisheries conservation. His dedication and impact resonate deeply within the angling community, making him a true champion of the sport.
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Club Development Officer & Safeguarding Lead
David Thompson
David is the driving force behind the Federation's club development and safeguarding initiatives, serving as the Club Development Officer and Safeguarding Lead.
With strategic leadership and an unwavering commitment to championing the growth and development of member clubs, David forges pivotal partnerships and secures essential funding through his active involvement in various governmental groups and committees.
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A seasoned angler with nearly 35 years of experience, David's journey began on the banks of the Six Mile Water. His profound passion for nature, the environment, and water quality, combined with his extensive education, has led to his projects earning prestigious awards, solidifying his commitment to reconnecting the community with the environment.
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David's expert advice, training, and development efforts span the entire province, making a significant impact on the angling community, marking him as an invaluable asset to the angling community.
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Development Officer
Steven Manderson
Steven, a director of the Federation, brings his dynamic energy and passion to his role. Working alongside David, he ensures the Ulster Angling Federation's website remains up-to-date and engaging, responding swiftly to the needs of its officers and directors.
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Having started angling at the age of five, Steven is a versatile and accomplished angler.
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While Pike fishing is his speciality, he eagerly pursues all freshwater species and takes to sea angling during the summer months, showcasing his wide-ranging skills and enthusiasm for the sport.
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Beyond his angling prowess, Steven is a qualified Level 2 Angling Lead Coach, dedicated to sharing his knowledge and inspiring others in the angling community.​​​​​
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Director & Coach Educator
Mark Tierney
Mark's passion for angling spans all species, a journey that began when he picked up his first fishing rod at the age of six.
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As the Federation Lead Angling Coach and educator, Mark brings unparalleled expertise and enthusiasm to his role. In addition, he serves as the Secretary of Loughmacrory Anglers, where his leadership and dedication shine.
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Mark is a staunch advocate for environmental conservation, fervently opposing gold mining and any industry that jeopardises water quality.
Always eager to dive into any angling-related activity, Mark leverages his extensive experience to support and advance the sport, making a significant impact in the angling community.​​
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Director & Coach Educator
Tomasz Rzonca
Tomasz is a vibrant and dedicated coach whose enthusiasm for angling is unmatched. His exceptional organisational skills have brought numerous top-tier events to life, creating unforgettable experiences for the angling community.
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Since taking on the role of head coach for the Polish Anglers NI and supporting events for the Federation, Tomasz has made a profound impact on both recognised and underrepresented groups across Northern Ireland. He has delivered diverse programmes for schools, people with disabilities, at-risk teens, and socially isolated men, along with organising family fun days that bring the community together.
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In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Tomasz was honoured with the Sportmaker Community Coach of the Year award. His passion and dedication continue to inspire and elevate the sport of angling.
List of Ulster Angling Federation Officers and Directors
Officers
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​Gary Houston - Chairman
Jim Haughey - Treasurer
David Thompson - Club Dev. Officer
Steven Manderson - Dev. Officer
Directors
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Robbie Marshall
Roy Simpson
Hugh Gormley
Michael Martin
Paul McKillen
Cathal Doyle
Madeleine Kelly
Harry McKee
Mark Tierney
Maurice Dorrity
Trevor Ogborn
Tomasz Rzonca
Kevin Magill
John Lucas
Ryan McNeill
Ray McKeeman