The Sutherland Cup is a national cup competition for junior shinty sides, and is the equivalent of the Camanachd Cup for sides competing in the lower divisions. The trophy is named after Sir William Sutherland MP, who donated the trophy in 1922 to allow junior sides to compete in a national competition.
The first final in 1923 saw Newtonmore defeat Bute 3-2 to become the maiden Sutherland cup winners. 100 years later, Newtonmore Reserves saw off Skye to lift their record 16th title at Blairbeg Park in Drumnadrochit. The current holders are Kingussie Reserves, who regained the title for the first time in 12 years as they defeated Skye 3-2 to lift their 10th Sutherland Cup. This equaled Kyles Athletic’s 10 wins, whilst Lochside Rovers have triumphed on 8 occasions. The most successful single team club are Kilmallie, who have 6 wins to their name.
The 2023 competition saw the introduction of a Player of the Match trophy, kindly donated by Dr. Hugh Dan MacLennan.
This trophy, the equivalent of the Albert Smith Medal was purchased by Dr MacLennan, which was modernised with an enhanced base and silver bands added by Roddie MacLennan of Aird Artisans, dates back to 1905. Whilst it is unknown when this trophy was competed for, it is believed that this may have been presented in the 1920’s in Argyll, or possibly even be the third Sutherland Cup. Glen MacKintosh of Newtonmore was the first MoTM to have their named engraved on the trophy. whilst the current holder is Ally MacDonald of Skye Camanachd.
Relive the last 3 finals...