The next player in our MOWI Marvels series, which shines a spotlight on some of the incredible women and girls playing our sport, is Inverness star, Isla McNeil.

How did you first get interested in playing shinty?

I was born into Shinty. I had a stick in my hand before I was in Nursery. My first competition was a “Grassroots “ event held at Braeview Park when I was in Primary 2-3 between Cabers, Beauly and Inverness

How do you cope with playing two games back to back some weekends?

I have an active weekly Shinty schedule which includes either training or matches 6 days a week. So playing back to back matches isn’t unusual as I play U14’s on Friday, Saturdays can be ladies North 2 or National, Sundays can be Ladies U14’s, North 2 or Nationals

How do you handle the pressure of performing well in high-stakes games?

I do try to treat every game with the same mind set. Every game matters.

Who are some of your role models in shinty, and what have you learned from them?

My Dad, he encourages me to be the best version of myself. I have also learnt that you can only try your best and try to improve your weaknesses.

What are your goals for the remainder of this season? 4 goals in 5 games so far in the MOWI WCA National is a great start, plus you’re the top scorer for the 2^nd team!

For the team, it is to finish as high as possible in the Leagues. In the Cups, go as far as possible . I would like to maintain my goal ratio even though I don’t always play in the forward line

What advice do you have for other young players who want to be successful in shinty?

Train out-with training and Train like you’re playing in a match