UHI shinty teams triumph again!

The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) and the Highlands and Islands Students' Association (HISA) are celebrating another outstanding performance at the prestigious Littlejohn and McHue and Porter Tournament on Wednesday 12 March, made possible through the generous sponsorship of Kishorn Port Ltd.

The UHI men’s team, led by captain Finlay Maclennan, secured a remarkable victory, claiming the coveted Littlejohn Vase for the second year in a row. The women’s team, co-captained by Rowan Cooper and Elaine Cameron, also delivered an outstanding performance, going unbeaten in the group stages and semi-final before narrowly missing out on penalties in the final to take home silver. Both teams were supported by players on loan from the University of Stirling who stepped in to fill empty spots.  

This esteemed student shinty tournament is hosted annually by the University of St Andrews, with the Littlejohn Vase being a symbol of this tradition since 1905. Recognised as the second most valuable sporting trophy in Scotland, following the Scottish Cup, it holds significant historical and cultural importance within the sport.  

Amanda Fleet, Sports Development Coordinator at HISA, has played a key role in their achievements. She expressed her gratitude, stating:  

“'This tournament provides an excellent opportunity for UHI and HISA to really showcase the exceptional talent of our shinty players and make a name for ourselves in the sport. For the women to take the silver medal and the men to win the Vase for the second year is an incredible achievement. 

"We are so grateful for the continued support of KPL, which enabled us to enter two teams into the Littlejohn and McHue and Porter Tournament for the second year. None of this would be possible without their support.  

“I'd also like to thank the many shinty clubs across Scotland and the Camanachd Association for their help in player recruitment, and to the University of Stirling for lending us players!” 

Their participation in the tournament would not have been possible without the support of industry partner Kishorn Port Ltd, a key player in the Highland region’s energy sector. UHI’s partnership with Kishorn Port Ltd led to a sponsorship request for the shinty teams in 2024. This vital support provided essential resources such as kits, sticks, and transport costs. 

Alasdair Ferguson, Director of Kishorn Port Ltd, once again congratulates the UHI shinty team:

“We are very pleased to sponsor the UHI’s shinty teams. A huge well done for their fantastic achievements – and on their back-to-back victory in the Littlejohn and McHue and Porter Tournament. 

“Kishorn Port has ambitious expansion plans in the energy transition and aquaculture sectors, creating exciting opportunities and jobs for UHI graduates, particularly in rural areas. This sponsorship aligns well with our business, and we are delighted to support UHI students. 

“It is also a fantastic opportunity to promote shinty, a sport that holds a special place in the hearts of many in the Highlands and Islands. We look forward to supporting the teams in both their sporting and academic careers.” 

In 2023, HISA drew up a Memorandum of Understanding with the Camanachd Association, the sport’s governing body, committing to increasing opportunities for UHI students in shinty. Participating in the Littlejohn and McHue and Porter Tournament is a significant step in advancing this collaboration. 

If you are interested in joining UHI's shinty team, please contact Amanda Fleet.