Shinty: Oban Camanachd receive welcome boost ahead of new season

Gary McKerracher has returned to training to add to Oban Camanachd’s options for the 2026 shinty season.

The 32-year-old started his shinty career with local rivals Oban Celtic before crossing the Oban divide to join Oban Camanachd.

He represented Scotland at youth and under-21 level but took time away from the game over recent years.

He made his comeback in Oban Camanachd’s recent inter-club match between the under-30s and over-30s which the younger side won 2-0 thanks to second half goals from Daniel MacVicar and Ross Macmillan.

Oban Camanachd assistant manager Iain MacMillan said: “That’s Gary got the shinty bug back big time and he’s buzzing; he’s really looking forward to the new season.

“He’s bought himself new boots and shinguards and he’s committed to giving it his all. He’s a fantastic player, a Rolls Royce type of player who just strolls through games. He’s a great addition to the squad.

“It will be a big, big plus for us to have him back in the defence and his return increases our options.

“If he can stay injury free and available every week, Gary can slot in at full back which I imagine could free up Daniel Madej to come out of full back and go out one to half back where he’s played before.

“Daniel had a great season at full back last year but he’s probably more comfortable at half back.

“The boys are all delighted that Gary’s back as he’s a popular guy. He has a great sense of humour and is very funny, just a great lad.

“We’re looking forward to having him back to training on Tuesday and hopefully he can stay healthy and injury free.”

Fitness levels are good

The Oban side finished third in the top-flight at the end of last season, just three points off the top, but whilst they scored 53 times, more than anyone else, they conceded 28 goals, more than their title rivals so Gary McKerracher’s defensive attributes will be welcomed.

Iain MacMillan added: “The guys have kept themselves fit during the close season.

“It’s been good to get a break from preparing yourself mentally for all the big games, but we stressed to the boys that it was really important that they don’t just stop doing the physical stuff over the winter.

“Daniel MacVicar, Daniel Maccuish and Louie MacFarlane are fantastic football players, and they have played for Oban Saints for a few months which they’ve enjoyed, and it’s been great for their fitness.

“Lewis Cameron is also a cracking footballer but decided not to play as he gets over his shoulder injury.

“We’ve a good relationship with Oban Saints especially as their manager Steven MacLeod and our manager Daniel Cameron get on well.

“The other boys are working hard too and we’re seeing their progress on Strava so preseason training won’t be the shock to the system it might otherwise have been.”

Macdonald to skipper Lochaber

Former Scotland under-21 cap Barry Macdonald will captain Lochaber on their return to the Mowi Premiership this coming season.

Macdonald has already skippered Lochaber to silverware this year when they beat Kilmallie 4-3 to take the Billy MacLachlan memorial cup on New Year’s Day.

Manager Ally Ferguson said: “Barry was our vice-captain last year and now steps up to captain our newly promoted side.

“Barry leads from the front with attitude, commitment and by example at training as well as on the pitch and off it.

“It’s a natural progression for Barry to be captain and he is so well respected by the other players and the coaching and management team. He communicates very well, he’s very competitive by nature and not only works hard but also shows good all-round commitment. He will look for his team to be successful for sure and won’t expect others to do what he wouldn’t be prepared to do himself.”

[Source: Press and Journal]