The Camanachd Leòdhais junior section had a very successful mainland trip in May.
Thanks to the generous support of Inspiring Scotland’s Rural and Island Communities: Ideas into Action fund, the young islanders were able to enjoy two days of much needed shinty action against their mainland peers.
Inspiring Scotland’s support also allowed the team to be kitted out in new tracksuits and the squad met at Stornoway Primary for a photoshoot.
Camanachd Leòdhais won this trophy for the first time in a great match played as three thirds, Lewis went ahead via Alistair, before Ruairidh scored a penalty in the third third. Lochbroom hauled one back, but very soon Ruaridh added his third, and Joel scored the fourth to seal a first ever Minch Cup win for the Leòdhasaich. The captain was Seumas whose father Paul played in the very first Minch Cup.
The match was refereed by both Katie Drain and former Lewis player Eoghan Stewart, who gave both teams some information about the history of the trophy, as well as presenting medals on behalf of Iomain Cholmcille’s Cupa Iomain na h-Òige project which receives funding from Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
Then it was onward to Kiltarlity where the Dubh is Gorm youngsters faced a step up in level and Tomnacross Primary. Lewis did really well in the first third, and most of the second. Then the early start kicked in under blazing sunshine and the Lovat youngsters showed their class. A level to aspire to and thanks to Katie Drain and all at Lovat for a fine barbecue and hospitality at their great clubhouse.
The players and coaches all enjoyed a great night out in Inverness at Rollerbowl before having more shinty this time at Drumnadrochit for the Grassroots shinty festival.
The Lewis 2s got the better of Lewis 1 and got draws v Glenurquhart and Lovat. They then rushed up the road to catch the first half of Caberfeidh v GMA where they were treated to a goalfest before heading home on the evening ferry.
Thanks to Annette and Don for coaching the squad and also the many parents who travelled to provide support. Thank you so much to the Camanachd Association’s Katie Drain for her support for this epic trip.
Thank you to Lewis Wind Power for their ongoing sponsorship of the team strips.
Again many thanks to Inspiring Scotland’s Rural and Island Communities: Ideas into Action Fund for making this whole venture possible. It will leave a great legacy for shinty in the Outer Hebrides.