Chieftain’s Cup Final Goes to Cannich, Honouring the First Chief of the Camanachd Association

The Camanachd Association are pleased to announce that Strathglass Shinty Club will proudly host the 2025 final of the newly renamed Chieftain’s Cup, formerly known as the Single Team Cup Competition, at Cannich Sport and Recreation Park, celebrating the enduring legacy of their Founding Father, Captain Archibald Macra Chisholm of Glassburn.

Captain Chisholm, born in Strathglass in July 1825, was a towering figure in Highland life. A veteran of the Black Watch, a respected Justice of the Peace, and a skilled piper elected to the Highland Society of London, he was a man deeply rooted in Gaelic culture and tradition.

Yet it is his contribution to shinty that secures his place in history. Founder of Strathglass Shinty Club in 1879, author of the sport’s first written rules in 1880, leader of his Strathglass men onto the field for the historic 1887 and 1888 matches against Glenurquhart at Bught Park and a driving force behind the formation of the Camanachd Association in 1893, Captain Chisholm was elected its very first Chief and remained in this role until his death in 1897. His vision and leadership helped shape the modern game.

In tribute, Strathglass Shinty Club present the Player of the Match award for the Balliemore Cup Final in his memory, celebrating a life devoted not only to shinty, but to Gaelic language, piping, and Highland heritage. The club welcomes the opportunity to further celebrate his life and legacy with Cannich 2025.

Strathglass Shinty Club President Roddie MacLennan said “We are delighted to host this first Chieftain’s Cup Final in Cannich, the home of the Camanachd Association’s first chieftain, Captain Archibald MacRa Chisholm “Glassburn”. We look forward to hosting whichever two teams are successful in reaching the final, and putting on a great day out as we welcome everybody to Strathglass.”

A full day of events and attractions are planned by Strathglass for the final will take place on 19th July 2025.