Badenoch and Strathspey Youth Shinty Initiative

THIS PROJECT IS BEING PART-FINANCED BY THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT AND THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITY CAIRNGORMS LEADER 2007-2013 Programme. It has also been supported by the Aviemore and Cairngorms Destination Management Organisation, Highland Council Area Discretionary Fund, the COOP Community Dividend Fund, Badenoch and Strathspey Sports Council, Newtonmore Camanachd Club, Aberdein Considine Solicitors and individual donors.

Background For a number of years the club has been frustrated at the perceived lack of support in the local schools for shinty. Only pupils at Kingussie Primary, Newtonmore Primary and Gergask Primary have had the opportunity to play shinty through the help of club and individual volunteers. There has been little support for shinty at Kingussie High School. This lack of support has limited the opportunity for competition in the local area and the growth of potential players for the local clubs.

Opportunity With the cultural emphasis of Highland 2007 and political support leading into the 2008 elections for there being a presumption that shinty ought to be played at schools, Newtonmore Camanachd Club started seeking support for a project. Key to its success was getting shinty established as one of the core sports that meant that everyone got a 6 week block on the curriculum. The Council gave that support, but there was a shortage of equipment, trained teachers and coaches for after schools clubs.

The Project The initiative lasts from 2008 to 2011. It intends to
A] Give every youngster the opportunity to try out shinty.
B] Give the opportunity for those that wish to take part in after school clubs.
C] Ensure absence of equipment, transport or trained personnel is not a barrier to participation.
D] Give more opportunities both for after school clubs and competitive opportunities for those that want to take part.

In Practice
i] All schools have been provided with helmets, camans, balls and 1st shinty equipment.
ii] All PE teachers have been offered coaching.
iii] After school clubs have been established throughout Badenoch and Strathspey with paid coaches where necessary.
iv] Additional competitions are being organised and shinty demonstrations are being offered to Highland Games and other cultural events to help enhance the visitor experience in the area.

The aim At the end of 3 years to have shinty sustainable in all local communities through the recruitment of volunteers.

How you can help? Donations are still needed!