Tough Choices For Shinty Hall of Fame | |
11 January 2014 The proposed new Shinty Hall of Fame is sure to generate lively debate amongst the game’s enthusiasts. The purpose of the Hall of Fame is to recognise and celebrate the contribution of key individuals who have brought distinction to themselves, their clubs and wider sport of shinty through their sporting achievements. The Hall of Fame will be in two parts: a semi-permanent home known for now as “An Talla” and an on-line presence as part of the National Shinty Archive. The Hall of Fame will be administered by the Camanachd Association through a Panel along with a Chairman who will report to the Camanachd Association. It is proposed that the first tranche of inductees in 2014 will number twelve players, one for each position, to compose a Dream Team. There could also be five others who can be nominated as substitutes or in other capacities e.g. distinguished administrators. Some basic principles will need to be agreed. For example, should the Hall of Fame include current players or should it be designed for those who have hung up their camans? The Panel may take the view that only former players should be included however it is difficult to imagine a Shinty Dream Team (with possibly up to five substitutes) which does not include the game’s record goalscorer, Ronald Ross. The Panel will also have to ensure that players from days gone by are appropriately recognised and that all the attention is not just focused on the modern age players who are of course more familiar to the masses. Meaningful participation from across the shinty world is also important meaning effective communication channels will be crucial to the project’s success. The Shinty Hall of Fame will form part of a National Shinty Archive project which will also include a physical archive of significant artefacts and a National Shinty Exhibition. A series of formal financial applications need to be completed and forwarded to funders such as the Heritage Lottery Fund, Museums and Galleries Scotland, Creative Scotland, Event Scotland, European sources and others, including sponsors. Therefore it is clear that much work needs to be done before this project gets off the ground. This is a major opportunity for shinty clubs and supporters to contribute to the shape and format of the National Shinty Archive. Nothing is set in stone and all suggestions will help formulate the discussion. The Camanachd Association will engage with clubs, individuals and other stakeholders over the next few weeks to help shape then application and all suggestions and ideas welcome. |