Camanachd Association invites clubs to have their say on proposed league structures
The Camanachd Association is inviting clubs to contribute to discussions on the future structure of shinty competitions, with three potential league models being presented for consideration.
The proposals have been developed following engagement with clubs and consideration of feedback received by the Association. Discussions have highlighted a number of recurring themes, including geographical challenges and travel, fixture fulfilment, player retention, referee availability and the pressures placed on clubs, volunteers and players by the existing competition calendar.
The overarching aim is to explore how the competition structure can best support the long-term sustainability of the game, making participation more manageable while maintaining the appeal and identity of shinty’s national competitions.
Importantly, nothing has been decided at this stage. The three models are intended to provide a basis for discussion and consultation, with the views and experiences of clubs playing an important part in determining the way forward.
Three options for consideration
The presentation outlines three potential approaches to the league structure, each offering a different balance between regional competition and national identity.
Option 1: A return to a traditional North and South structure
This model would see a return to separate North and South leagues, with regional competition throughout the season. The winners of the respective Premier Leagues would then meet in an end-of-season play-off to decide the national title.
Option 2: Regional leagues with a national play-off system
Building on the regional approach, this model would introduce a more modern national dimension. The top four teams in each of the North and South Premier Leagues would progress to an end-of-season cup-style play-off competition, culminating in the National Mowi Play-Off Final.
The model also includes a play-off pathway involving the lower-placed Premier League teams and first teams from the respective Division One leagues for the Balliemore Trophy.
Option 3: Retaining a national Premiership
This option would retain the current nationwide Premier League, alongside regional North and South divisions below it. The structure would therefore maintain a national top division while introducing regional competition at the lower levels.
The Competition and Fixtures Committee identified Option 2 as its preferred league structure when considering the proposals. This preference will form part of the wider consultation, with clubs being given the opportunity to consider all three options and provide their views.
Fixture calendar also under consideration
Alongside the league proposals, the Association has identified a number of potential fixture calendar models.
These consider different approaches to the length of the season, the number of available match days, the use of midweek fixtures and the provision of a mid-season break.
The calendar options will be considered separately from the league structure consultation. However, there are elements which are dependent on the structure ultimately selected, meaning the two areas will need to be considered together as the process develops.
The intention is to find an approach which balances fixture requirements with player welfare, volunteer availability, officials, school holidays and the wider demands on those involved in the game.
Clubs invited to contribute
The next stage of the process will see feedback questionnaires issued to clubs next week.
Clubs are being asked to take the presentation to their respective committees, players and management, discuss the proposals and submit one consolidated response per club.
All feedback will be collated and analysed before the findings are shared with clubs. The Camanachd Association Board will then consider the consultation results and determine a preferred route forward.
Any proposal taken forward for implementation will subsequently be subject to a vote by clubs registered and participating within the relevant league structures.
The Association recognises the importance of getting this process right and wants to ensure that clubs have the opportunity to consider the options, discuss the potential implications and contribute to shaping the future of shinty competitions.
