Shinty world pays its respects to Oban’s ‘Nonny’ MacInnes
IT WAS with great sadness that Oban Camanachd Club advised the shinty fraternity of the passing on Tuesday March 28 of Neil MacInnes, at the age of 46, following a short, but bravely fought, illness.
‘Nonny’, as he was known to everyone who knew him, was a colossal part of Oban Camanachd during his lifetime, not only as an outstanding player and then administrator but lately as a supporter.
It is poignant to report that Nonny was in the stand supporting Oban Camanachd in their game against Newtonmore on Saturday March 18 and, although very ill, it would be in his nature to rejoice that his last involvement with shinty was a win against such formidable opponents. As mentioned, Nonny was an outstanding player for Oban Camanachd and although a medal winner on many occasions, his greatest triumph was to lead Oban Camanachd to victory as captain in the 1996 Camanachd Cup Final versus Kingussie.
In addition to being an outstanding half back, he was a natural born leader and on that day he led by example, bringing his team back from a deficit of 2- 0 to win 3-2.
Few will forget his after dinner speech at Inverness Town Hall where, ‘off the cuff’, he gave a humorous and delightful winning captain’s speech.
Nonny won the Albert Smith Medal for ‘man of the match’ on two occasions at Camanachd Cup Finals as well as a ‘man of the match’ at a Macaulay Cup Final. Nonny also featured in the shinty/ hurling internationals.
The shinty world is united in extending its sympathy to his wife Karen and daughters Kirsty and Jenna at this difficult time. Also in our thoughts are his mother Rhoda and his brothers Ian and Ally; Ally having played with him in the 1996 final.
Nonny’s funeral was held at Oban Parish Church on Tuesday April 4, with the interment at Pennyfuir Cemetery, Oban, thereafter.