The Western Isles squad heading to the 2025 International Island Games in Orkney has been revealed.
A total of 105 team members will travel north this July for the week-long event hosted by one of the 24 member islands.
This marks WIIGA’s 10th Games appearance and the 20th anniversary since they first competed in Shetland in 2005.
The squad includes athletes, coaches, management and medical staff across 10 different sports.
The Orkney Games are expected to attract more than 4,000 athletes, officials and media from across the island network.
Team Manager Iain GG Campbell says more than half of the athletes are under 25, keeping with WIIGA’s mission to promote youth talent.
He described the selection announcement as a highlight moment and praised all those who made the cut.
Orkney were originally set to host the Games in 2023 before Covid pushed them back.
Campbell says the team is excited to see fresh faces rise to the occasion.
Western Isles athletes will compete in Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Bowls, Cycling, Men’s and Women’s Football, Men’s and Women’s Golf and Swimming.
He highlighted the fierce level of competition expected, with top international performers attending.
While medals are a dream, development remains a major focus for the team heading to Orkney.
He hopes for smooth final preparations and a clean bill of health ahead of travel.
WIIGA Chair Cllr Norrie MacDonald acknowledged the immense effort behind getting the team to this stage.
He praised the commitment of athletes, club coaches, team managers and committee members involved in squad logistics.
MacDonald said the Games are vital in inspiring young islanders to stay active and believe in their ability to compete on a global stage.
He extended congratulations to athletes, coaches and their families.
The squad will once again be backed by main sponsor Bakkafrost Scotland.
The seafood firm’s support helps make WIIGA’s ambitions possible and they remain committed to the communities in which they work.
Many local sports teams have also benefited from business sponsorship and WIIGA expressed thanks for the generous help.
Additional sponsors will be announced in the coming weeks.
The countdown to Orkney 2025 is now well and truly on.
