Shinty - A fast paced Scottish sport with similarities to hockey and hurling with historic roots
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What is Shinty?
Shinty is best described as 'hockey with no rules'. Although Shinty has rules, there is much more freedom, such as full swings and blocking to defend.
A similar sport to Shinty you may have heard of is Hurling, which is played in Ireland, and every year there is the Shinty-Hurling International match played between Scotland and Ireland using different sticks, Camans (Shinty) and Hurleys (Hurling).
What to Expect?
We have a men’s and a women’s team who compete against other Scottish universities throughout the academic year in the Scottish Student Shinty League. We finish the year with the Littlejohn tournament – an exciting one-day event in St Andrews where all the universities compete against each other.
There are many opportunities to progress your shinty career through our club such as playing for the Scottish universities squad or our close partners at the local shinty club, Aberdeen University Camanachd, who compete in leagues and cups against other teams across Scotland.
Social Perks
Our socials are lots of fun and not to be missed, with regular events throughout the season such as the greatest pub crawls in Aberdeen, ceilidhs, and regular socials. Joining our club will give you access to outstanding member discounts with our sponsors for discounted drinks and food.
What do I need/bring?
We provide both Camans (Shinty sticks) and helmets for everyone. Just bring sports clothes, football boots and some shin guards if you have!
History
Aberdeen University Shinty Club was founded in 1861 making it the oldest constituted shinty club in Scotland, and therefore the world.
Keen to try, but feeling a little apprehensive?
Don't worry as most of our team had never played Shinty before University.
Interested? Come join us at our training:
Monday 18:00-20:00 @ Balgownie Playing Fields
Wednesday 17:00-19:00 @ Kings Pitches (usually followed by Bobbin or a planned social)
*Men's and Women's team train at the exact locations and times.
Up to date as of Septmeber 2025 - check AU Shinty instagram page for latest training updates
Follow/message us on:
Instagram: @aushinty - the best place to keep up to date with training, matches and up coming socials!
Facebook: Aberdeen University Shinty Club (https://www.facebook.com/Aberdeen-University-Shinty-Club-1047280142105874/?ref=br_tf)
