The Highland Football League in Scotland has been captivating football enthusiasts for over a century with its unique brand of football. It is known for its fierce competition, enthusiastic crowds, and rich history. Here are ten interesting facts you should know about the Scotland Highland Football League:
- Formation: The Highland Football League was founded in 1893, and it consists of teams from the Scottish Highlands, including the Northern Isles.
- Membership: Currently, the league comprises 17 teams, with 16 from the Highlands and one from the Orkney Islands.
- Schedule: The league season runs from August to April, with each team playing 32 games.
- Champions: The team with the most league titles is Inverness Caledonian Thistle, with 17 wins.
- Players: The Highland Football League has produced many talented players over the years, including Billy Mckay, who scored 62 goals in one season for Inverness CT.
- Cup Competitions: In addition to the league, teams in the Highland Football League also compete in various cup competitions, such as the Scottish Cup and the Highland League Cup.
- Promotion: The winner of the Highland Football League does not automatically gain promotion to the Scottish Professional Football League but must win a playoff against the bottom team in the SPFL.
- Matches: The Highland Football League is known for its exciting matches and passionate crowds, with derbies such as the Highland Derby between Inverness CT and Ross County drawing large attendances.
- Facilities: Many of the stadiums in the Highland Football League are small but picturesque, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Expansion: There are plans to expand the Highland Football League to include more teams, which would increase the level of competition and raise the league’s profile.
