Shinty Ball and Stick
Glencoe Folk Museum

Shinty is a traditional Highland sport which has an important part within Highland community. Often played on festival days, it allowed different neighbouring communities to compete against each other.   

Emigrants took the sport with them around the world. In Canada, it is known to have evolved into ice hockey.  

This small, round shinty ball is made of woven wool, held in shape by a white leather covering.   

The curved wooden stick is very distinctive, with a triangular shape and formed from one single piece of wood. The rounded edges reduce the risk of injury to an opponent. Nowadays, helmets are mandatory during the game.