Thistle

Lerwick Thistle who are nicknamed the Jags were formed in 1902 and apart from the two world wars and a period from 1956 to 1963 the club has always been in existence. It was one of the original teams setup in Shetland and has existed to provide football for families in Lerwick.

Traditionally Thistle play in Light blue and maroon but in recent years maroon in no longer seen on the Jags strips. Thistle used to only have one single team but since the 1970’s the club has played its part in developing Shetland football and currently have eight teams from under 7’s up to the Senior A team. Thistle run winter training from October through to March and anyone wishing to get involved should contact the appropriate manager. The summer outdoor season generally runs then from April until the beginning of September.

Lerwick Thistle’s first league success came in 1934 but their most successful period came more recently between 1992 and 2000 when the Lerwick team won the premier league an incredible seven times out of a possible nine. Thistle have also enjoyed great success in the domestic cup competitions winning the Madrid cup thirteen times, Manson cup eight times, Fraser cup four times and the County Shield nine times. Lerwick Thistle did endure a baron spell of five years without a trophy until their penalty shoot out success in 2011 taking the Fraser Cup on penalties with victory over the reigning league champions Whalsay. Thistle’s most recent triumph came in 2016, winning the County Shield following a 2-1 victory after extra time over town rivals Lerwick Celtic.

For the future Thistle will support both the Senior and Junior football associations and try and develop good junior teams for the ultimate aim of gaining success for Lerwick Thistle Senior teams.

Lerwick Thistle – Fraser Cup Winners 2011