Footballers from The Nicolson Institute won Cuach nan Àrd-sgoiltean 2026, for the second year in a row, after several tense and exciting games.

Cuach nan Àrd-sgoiltean was held at Canal Park in Inverness yesterday (Wednesday 10 June) with eight teams taking part from across the country.

The Nicolson Institute won the competition after defeating Àrd-sgoil Ghàidhlig Ghlaschu on penalties after extra time.

This year saw a new strategy for Cuach nan Àrd-sgoiltean. As a pilot, teams were made up of eight players with two substitutions for each game, and at least two girls on the pitch at all times. It was hoped that this would allow more opportunities for players to be on the pitch.

• The Nicolson Institute
• Sir E Scott School
• Sgoil Lionacleit
• Castlebay School
• Portree High School
• Inverness Royal Academy
• James Gillespie’s High School, Edinburgh
• Àrd-sgoil Ghàidhlig Ghlaschu

The Sàr Cluicheadair na Gàidhlig award was awarded to Seonaidh MacLean from Castlebay School. This award goes to the player that, as chosen by referees, has the best use of Gaelic throughout the competition.

The prizes were awarded by Steven Kellow, Funding and Projects Manager at Bòrd na Gàidhlig.

Cuach nan Àrd-sgoiltean beagan in 2022 after young people themselves requested it. As a result of the fun they had taking part in Cuach na Cloinne (the primary school competition, which celebrated 20 years this year) and wanted a similar event for teenagers.

Marina Murray, Development Director at CnaG, said: “We were very happy to run this competition for the fifth year, feedback from pupils and schools show Cuach na Cloinne is a highlight of GME and now pupils look forward to another opportunity in high school – allowing young people to showcase their football and Gaelic skills at the same time.

"These events give young people the opportunity to have fun, and to connect with other young Gaelic speakers from all over the country outside of the classroom environment. We hope to continue and further develop this opportunity for young people in the future.”

Ealasaid MacDonald, Ceannard (CEO), Bòrd na Gàidhlig, said: “Congratulations to The Nicolson Institute and to every team who took part in the competition. It’s great to see so many young people being brought together to have fun and make connections, all through the medium of Gaelic.”