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3. Playing Customs and Traditions
Like all sports clubs, Lochaber RFC has a strong history of traditions, values and sportsmanship on and off the field at Banavie. Since it was formed in 1969 our players and members have formed new friends from around the world and the ethos of our club as stated by a family member of a previous President summed it up, Lochaber Rugby Club “where everyone is welcome and everyone contributes”
Our core values are important to us and our aim is to make a positive impact within the Lochaber community
ANNUAL CUP GAMES: For new players arriving at our club – as well as our seasonal league fixtures we have, we have annual ‘friendly’ matches for cups that you will be expected to take part in during the season, such as
THE FRED REILLY CUP (Lochaber -v- Oban) – The is the earliest trophy and was purchased by Fred Reilly, a local banker and also played in the original team when the club formed in 1969. Oban was the nearest southbound club and it was agreed between the two clubs and that the cup would be played for annually at the alternative clubs in Fort William and Oban. The cup was nicknamed by former Captain Robin Morgan as “the worthless bit of tin” after it was accidentally dropped on a victorious return journey back to Fort William, arriving with a couple of extra features that were not there before!
THE TWO RONNIES CUP (Lochaber -v- Highland) – This trophy was purchased by two business men. Ronnie Young from Lochaber RFC and Ronnie Bremner from Highland RFC. The cup played for by the Snr Men’s teams annually. After moving to Edinburgh, Ronnie & Helen Young used to try and attend the Fort William fixtures as often as they could. Unfortunately, Ronnie Young passed away in April 2025, but it is anticipated that Helen and their son Alan will try and continue the tradition in honour of him.
THE SINCLAIR CUP (Lochaber -v- Orkney) – Being in the same league in the early days, our club regularly played Orkney and likewise they travelled to us. Lots of good friendships were struck up over the years especially in the 1980’s and the players of that generation are still good friends to this day. Our neighbouring hotel at that time was owned by the Sinclair Family were from Orkney took great interest when Orkney were playing at Banavie. Mr Sinclair approached the club wishing to put up a cup to be played by our Snr Men between the two clubs on an annual basis at alternative venues
END OF SEASON SMOKER - This is usually held at the end of May in the Clubhouse where the players have a sit-down meal, there is a Presidents & Captains speech and the ‘Players Player’ trophy is presented. It has previously been a mixed event with men’s & ladies’ teams but with the numbers expanding in both teams it is now two separate dates.
THE HOOKERS & SWINGERS CUP – In memory of a club member (Davy McCook) who was tragically killed in a road accident and although never played was an active / keen supporter of our Club who also loved golf. It was agreed between our Club and Spean Bridge Golf Club that a trophy would be played in his memory on an annual basis (usually June/July) It’s a Texas Scramble with all abilities welcome – the day is about fun and raising a bit of money for the Youth Sections of both clubs. The McCook family organise this event with Spean Bridge Golf Club.
ANNUAL BOXING DAY MATCH – (Presidents -V- Club Captains) Match - The President hosts this annual match with the Club Captain – they pick their teams on the day from a list of players who have put their names down for this historic fixture. It’s a fixed date in a lot of people’s diaries – fun for all on and off the pitch as well as a great family day, with the kids coming along to show off their latest gifts and the perfect opportunity to us catch up with old friends, retired players who are home over the festive period.