The Ba' Game 2024 in Scotland

The Ba' Game, a unique form of football, is traditionally played in Kirkwall, Orkney, and the Scottish Borders on Christmas Day and more frequently on January 1st, earning it the name New Year Ba' Game. The match features two teams, the Uppies and the Doonies, competing for the leather trophy ball known as the Ba'. Open to everyone, including visitors, the game can become quite heated, with players sometimes jumping into the cold waters of the Forth River. This centuries-old event is a cherished aspect of Scottish culture.

The Uppies and Doonies

The names of the teams derive from the Old Norse word "gata," meaning road. Those from the Up-the-Gates side are known as the Uppies, while those from the Doon-the-Gates side are called the Doonies. The team names reflect Viking influence: the Uppies, representing the attacking forces, aim to get the ball into the opposing team's church from the Up-the-Gates side. In contrast, the Doonies, from the lower side of town, seek to carry the ball to the harbor shore, symbolizing the Viking defenders.

Highlight of the Game

The Doonies aim to take the Ba' to the sea, specifically within the Basin of the Harbour; as long as it touches the saltwater of Kirkwall Bay, the Ba' has gone doon. The Uppies, on the other hand, must navigate around the Lang or Mackinson's Corner at the junction of Main Street and New Scapa Road, near the site of the old town gates. Thousands of enthusiastic spectators gather to watch the match, which can last for hours until one team triumphs. Despite the game's intensity, which often involves players jumping into the icy waters of the Forth River, Scotsmen and women embrace the challenge without hesitation.

Schedule of the Games

The Boys Ba' is for those aged 15 and under, starting at 10 am from the Merket Cross, often with over 100 participants. Matches last between 4 minutes to 6 hours, and winners claim the Ba' as a trophy. Winning doesn't affect status when moving to the men's game, where all players begin as equals. The Men's Ba' kicks off at 1 pm, with up to 350 men in a chaotic scrum. Players strive to control the Ba' and push it toward their goal, with breaks happening unexpectedly as they navigate various streets.

Safety Measures

Interestingly, the townspeople erect wooden barricades the night before the Ba' Game to protect their homes and businesses from potential damage. While these security measures are in place, the competition can become intense, with players fiercely determined to win, occasionally resulting in clashes and damage. Despite this, the locals eagerly anticipate this centuries-old tradition, which is a vital part of life in Kirkwall.

History of the Ba' Game

The Ba' Game for Women was held just twice in 1945 and 1946, but due to the intensity and potential danger, it was discontinued. Historically a male-dominated event, the Ba' Game remains open to all, allowing everyone to participate or enjoy the excitement from the sidelines.