Skye Add To First Team Playing Pool | |
04 January 2023 Skye Camanachd first team manager Kenny Macleod has confirmed the addition of two new players to his first team squad. Kenny Cushnie has joined the Islanders from Lochcarron whilst Sam Stubbs has made the switch from Lovat. Both players can play in either midfield or attack. Cushnie, who captained Lochcarron last season, has been living and working in Portree for over a year now whilst Stubbs also has connections to the area. Kenny Macleod said: “They are both excellent signings and increase the size of the squad ahead of our Premiership campaign. Kenny Cushnie has been playing mostly in the lower leagues for Lochcarron and Aberdeen University, but he has the ability and potential to adapt quickly, and his game is about his presence and work-rate. “Sam Stubbs is only 19 yet tasted the Camanachd Cup Final with Lovat last year and we are delighted he has come on board, and we’ll help him with his progression. He’s a physical player with a fitness obsessed background and his adaptability in the forward line and centre line gives us plenty cover. “Both guys are keen to prove themselves and help us secure another year in the Premiership and good runs in the cup competitions.” The additions are particularly helpful given that senior players Somhairle MacDonald and Chris Rose both retired following the team’s Mowi National Division title success. Meantime Will Cowie will not be available for the start of the new season due to work commitments. Kenny Macleod added: “Will’s commitments in Glasgow don’t allow him to be 100% involved as he wants to be. His commitment last year, with travel and work, was incredible but it takes its toll. Will knows he needs to be 100% on it or it’s not going to work for him or us”. Skye Camanachd will open their preseason programme with a trip to Dublin to face hurlers Setanta GAA on Saturday 4 February 2023. They follow that up with a match against Newtonmore at the Eilan on Saturday 11 February 2023. Whilst arrangements for Saturday 18 February 2023 are still to be confirmed, there will be a derby against Kinlochshiel on Saturday 25 February 2023. The venue will be decided nearer the time depending on pitch availability. The new shinty season starts on Saturday 4 March 2023. |