It’s the biggest day in the Women’s Camanachd Association’s shinty calendar as Skye Camanachd face Glasgow Mid Argyll in the Valerie Fraser Camanachd Cup Final at the Eilan, Newtonmore on Saturday 2 September 2023.

Skye manager Jenna Beaton knows her charges have a big task ahead. She said: “We are under no illusions; this is going to be really tough and, in many ways, tougher than the semi-final win over Badenoch.

“We’ve done some light training this week but there’s not much else we can do at this stage. The players are prepared, and it will be down to wants it most on the day.

“It was a tough 2022 for the team but the players have put so much into it and even reaching the final last year, and playing like we did, was really pleasing.”

Skye lifted the trophy in both 2017 and 2019 and that recent experience could stand them in good stead. Beaton, part of the 2017 winning side, added: “Sarah Yoxon, Caitlin Maclean, Sarah-Jane Ferguson, Ilana Paterson, Christina MacDonald, who is one of the best defenders in the game, and our captain Rhianna Kirk have all been there before, and helped the club through recent transition. We’ll mix their experience with younger players like Teri Macleod, Catherine Robertson and Leah MacLeod. Unfortunately, Sadie MacDonald misses out with a knee injury, but otherwise we are ok.  

“GMA have been on a good run and they certainly have firepower. We drew 2-2 with them in the league in Glasgow and, including Badenoch and Lochaber, it has been close between the top four sides this season and that’s good for the game. It’s even nice to have two different teams in the final this year.

“Our first Valerie Fraser final was against GMA 9 years ago and the club has come a long way since then.”

Jenna Beaton hasn’t been able to play this season after suffering a broken collarbone in the league decider against Badenoch last season but will certainly be able to play her part from the touchline.   

Throw up is at 4.10pm and the match will be broadcast live on BBC ALBA for anyone unable to be there on the day.

Catering on the day includes the Mowi Salmon Wagon, Miele’s Gelateria, G’s Pizza Box and a BBQ.

Admission prices are: Adults - £5, Concessions - £3 whilst under-12s go free. There will also be kids’ activity bands available priced at £5 which includes unlimited bouncy castle, face painting etc.