Camanachd Association to provide funding to clubs for return to shinty
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Shinty's governing body has announced a financial package worth up to £32,000 to support the return of the game this summer.
The Camanachd Association board confirmed a 50 per cent reduction in membership fees at its latest meeting.
Members also agreed that every club would also be offered up to five free memberships to support clubs who are facing barriers to participation.
Clubs will be given the freedom to allocate these memberships based on local needs.
Camanachd Association chief executive Derek Keir said the challenges communities have faced over the past year have been significant, and it was the board of directors goal to reduce the costs, where it could, to make returning to shinty easier.
“Our core priorities this year are to restart shinty safely and in line with government guidance and to do this in an inclusive way.
“We believe this reduction in fees and extended support will help clubs continue to play a pivotal role in the community as Scotland recovers from the challenges it has faced.
“The developments in government guidance over the past few days are hugely exciting, but the quick turnaround in legislation will mean that volunteers may need a bit more time to figure things out and digest the guidance, as well as adjust their plans in order to restart shinty.
“While we are excited to restart our sport, a key component in our journey is to do this safely to ensure everyone takes a considered approach balancing the desire of participants with the capacity of club coaches and volunteers and placing wellbeing at the top of our agenda for all.”
The Camanachd Association says it is keen to urge all participants, parents and supporters to be patient and supportive as clubs prepare their Covid-19 guidance to restart opportunities to take part.
Clubs are preparing guidance for the return of local club-based activities, encouraging anyone interested to play a supportive role in the process and consider volunteering for clubs.
The first adult competitive games are scheduled for June 5 but that date could yet change depending on the Covid situation.
