Mallaig FC reflect on season to remember

Not many sports clubs can boast a league championship victory and a cup final appearance in their first season of competition.

However, Mallaig Football Club can do just that after the team enjoyed a remarkable debut season as a member of Skye and Lochalsh Amateur Football Association.

The club was crowned league champions after beating Kyleakin in the championship play-off in September. The league and cup double proved elusive for the Lochaber side, however, as they fell short in the final against their familiar foe Kyleakin.

Manager Jamie MacGregor reflected on the season after the team’s final outing of the year last month: ‘This season we started with a few footballs, bibs and some overly keen footballers. In February we started a pre-season with no league to play in with only an idea of what we wanted to achieve over the next two years. After the first annual general meeting and a couple of mistakes from myself, it looked like we might have missed the chance of competitive football in Mallaig for another year and there was a real danger of it never coming back. Luckily we managed to pull something together and find backing by some locals. Michelle at the Steam Inn was one of the first to come forward and back the local football team. Robert Macmillan of Mallaig Harbour Authority, a former player, and Robert Summers and his crew on the Rebecca Janeen have helped too.

‘We have had massive backing from a range of people including Mallaig Fisherman’s Co-op, Duncan Muir and Son, Morar Motors, J Coull bricklaying and roughcasting, Askival B&B and Lawerence Lawrie.

‘Over the season we experienced some disappointment and the ultimate high of being league champions but most importantly we now have a seat at the table which will ensure competitive football will be in Mallaig for years to come.

‘This year will show how far we have come as we look to move more into the community and involving more people by having an under 18 football team competing in the Skye and Lochalsh under 18 league.

‘A massive thank you to everyone who supported the football in every way possible. In 2019, we hope to continue to bring a club that the community can be proud of.’

Players and management of Mallaig FC celebrated the season at the joint Mallaig FC and Fisherman Mission dance on December 21 at Mallaig and Morar Community Centre.