Boss says Ritchie is perfect man to skipper Newtonmore ahead of exciting campaign
Craig Ritchie will captain Newtonmore for the 2025 shinty season.
Like most shinty clubs, ‘More change their captains each year and Craig Ritchie takes the skipper’s armband from the energetic Drew MacDonald who led the side to a fifth-place finish in the Mowi Premiership last season, just a couple of points off second place.
Craig Ritchie comes from a strong Newtonmore family tradition with his father Michael Ritchie and grandfather David “Tarzan” Ritchie, both multiple trophy winners and amongst the club’s many modern-day greats.
He has been a regular for the Blue and Whites since his teenage years and his performances were recognised when he broke into manager Garry Reid’s Scotland set-up for the shinty-hurling international against Ireland in 2023.
‘More manager Peter Ross said: “Craig Ritchie is a very skilful player, and he has a cool head on his shoulders.
“He is so very versatile and is equally at home playing in defence, midfield and even in attack and that gives me great options throughout the season.
“He’s an international player who can open up defences and I’m really looking forward to working with him.
“This will mean a lot to Craig and his family.”
Newtonmore’s preparations for the forthcoming shinty season are already well underway.
Ross commented: “We’ve had great numbers at training and the boys are all working hard. For us, the league campaign starts now.
“We also have the likes of Iain Robinson, who is based in the Central Belt, training with Glasgow Mid Argyll.
“He’s a good player and goals win games, so Iain can be a big player for us this season.
“I can also sense that the senior players such as Rory Kennedy and Steven Macdonald are really up for it, and they are top notch; they could have held their own and played for any Newtonmore team from any era.”
Daniel Cravan will skipper the Newtonmore second team.
Meanwhile Fraser Coyle has joined Ross’s management team.
“Fraser has been alongside me since primary school,” said Ross.
“He’s a completely straight guy and a good coach and we think along the same lines.”
Mark Taylor, Peter Ross’s trusted lieutenant from their time with the second team, remains in his role whilst Tony Robinson stays on with first aid duties.
Lesley McKenna continues to bring her expertise to the weekly training sessions as will Sally Annan as physio.
