Badenoch Ladies were presented with the Mowi WCA National Division title after winning 9-0 against Glenurquhart on the final day of the season. That result capped off a nearly flawless campaign for Badenoch – the only blemish a 2-1 defeat against Lochaber in their opening game of the season. If that was the negative, the positives included conceding less than a goal a game (0.71) and scoring an average of over 7 per game (7.14). In addition, the club boasted a Gold & Silver in the divisions top scorers charts with Zoe Reid’s 30 goals enough to beat 2^nd placed Kirsty Deans (21) to the accolade.

Captain Megan Ralph said: “The girls have worked so hard for each other this season especially with some challenges we’ve faced and I’m delighted to see all the hard work has paid off. It’s been a real team effort and I’ve been fortunate to lead them this year and we wouldn’t be where we are without Scott and Iains hard work and knowledge guiding us. I’m glad we’ve managed to lift another trophy for them in their last year managing us. I know we’ll be raring to go again next season and see where it take us!”

Top scorer Zoe Reid said: “Retaining the league title for a third year in a row has been a massive achievement for everyone involved in Badenoch ladies shinty club. The commitment to training, games, and personal fitness and development has been outstanding this season and our coaches Scott and Iain have a massive part to play in this. Although we’re disappointed we couldn’t do the double for Scott and Iain’s last season coaching us, we hope we’ve made them proud as we wouldn’t be in the position we’re in as a club without their help and input over the last 6 years. We will miss them a lot however look forwards to next season with a new insight to retaining the league title and getting the Valerie Fraser cup back in Badenoch.”

President John Robertson said: “”At the last training session of the season, on the last Wednesday evening in September, it was pouring rain, half dark, and there were no competitive games left. However, 25 women turned up to train and practice. It showed yet again the commitment the Badenoch players have at all age levels, and I am delighted for them that the season turned out so well.

On the 10th September, all three of the Badenoch teams were playing at home on the Dell and the First Team was presented with the National Premier League Mowi Trophy. It was a terrific day for the Club and a large local crowd turned out to see Camanachd Chieftain, John MacKenzie, present the trophy to Badenoch Club Captain, Megan Ralph. It was a good occasion for the Badenoch players which brought all the teams together, and the day was completed with an evening barbecue. I am pleased for everyone involved as the team spirit has maintained and built all season.

The under-14 team and Second Team progressed dramatically as the season went on, and there are many youth players now who are potential First Team players. I can only congratulate Jeanette, Julie and Douglas for their work with the youth players this season. The Second Team’s performances improved as the season went on and this was reflected in their finishing league position i North Division 1.

After six years, Scott Campbell and Iain Robinson are stepping down from coaching the Badenoch First Team. The culture they have instilled in the Club is fantastic and is one of the reasons for the dedication and commitment of the players. In 2023, they took the First team to the Valerie Fraser semi-final and to the Mowi Premier League title. A great final season for them, and the Club is indebted to them for an incredible six years of quality, high-standard training and matches.

During the 2023 season, Zoe Reid finished top scorer in the league with 30 goals and Kirsty Deans was second with 21 goals. The Captain, Megan Ralph scored 14 times. It was a great season for the Club.”