The club marked another positive year with our annual awards night and dinner.
It was a significant night with the presentation of two new awards which will hopefully go on to become as greatly regarded as the other awards presented on an annual basis.
The two awards were designed and crafted by Paddy Wilson. Paddy has become an important contributor to the club, but had long been known to the club as a respected opponent with Caberfeidh and Lochbroom. The first award was “The Devine Dedication Award”.
This handsome shield is an award that honours the enduring legacy of John Devine, celebrating his unwavering passion and commitment. It is presented to an individual who goes above and beyond in their effort, enthusiasm, and dedication, inspiring others through their relentless pursuit of excellence in sport. This was presented to Annette Murray, who has contributed countless hours to both the senior and youth set ups in a number of roles.
The second award that Paddy helped craft was a caman that formalises a title that Jinxy has been promoting for the last few seasons, that of “Ironman” for players who are ever-present throughout a season. If you achieve this, your name gets added to the caman. Callum MacRitchie was the only Dubh is Gorm player to achieve “The Ironman Award” this year.
In turning to the now traditional awards, the u18 player of the year was Donny Murray (who capped a great season by turning out for Alba on home soil.).
Captain’s player of the year, presented by currently injured Scott MacLeod, is Ronan Sinclair. Ronan also made his first appearance for Alba this year, and as well as being club secretary continues to travel from Lairg to play for the Dubh is Gorm. Ronan won this award previously in 2017.
Donnie MacRae made a bit of history as he not only claimed the award of Club Senior Player of the Year for the second year in succession. The only other person to achieve this feat was Daniel “Gaga” Gallagher in 2007 and 2008 – very different times for the club.
He also made it a career clean sweep of the club’s three senior playing awards after winning captain’s player of the year last year. He received the Donald Shaw Caman from Duncan MacIntyre as Manager’s Player of the Year for 2024.
It was a great night and an opportunity to say thanks to all the people who support the club through the year. Here’s to 2025 as we mark 30 years of shinty returning to Lewis & Harris.
Suas leis an Dubh is Gorm!