Wick Academy’s mini ultras get new base in specially converted container
A new location has been created for Wick Academy’s Black and White Mini Ultras – in a specially converted container installed at Harmsworth Park.
Young supporters were given their own designated area of the Sound Stand at the start of the 2024/25 Highland League season, in the hope that their enthusiastic backing would enhance the matchday experience for all spectators.
The kids duly added to the atmosphere by banging the drum – literally – for the Scorries. However, the increased noise levels were not welcomed with open arms by some of the older fans who watch games from that part of the ground.
Academy member Andrew Henderson was one of those behind the original idea for the ultras and he has been instrumental in finding a compromise – with help from some of his business contacts.
“There were a few complaints from some fans about the Black and White Mini Ultras,” Andrew said. “This was because of the drum and the noise being made within their designated section in the South Stand.

“We understood the concerns, and as a result the ultras were put on hold.
“The kids in the group are a good bunch and they just want to come to a game, generate a bit of an atmosphere and support their local team.
“You could see the enthusiasm and excitement in their faces and the passion that they had for it. Myself, Alan Farquhar [committee member] and the club wanted to make the matchday experience more enjoyable and exciting for fans young and old and this was the first piece of the jigsaw.
“Myself and Alan made a promise to the group that we would try our best to make it work.
“Speaking with Gary Manson [Wick Academy manager] and some of the players, they really enjoyed having the ultras at home matches.
“The park has no other enclosures that could house the group, and we couldn’t ask them to stand outside in the elements.
“I was telling someone within BAM Nuttall about it. I said if we could get an old container that we could convert, that would be perfect.
“He told me to leave it with him. Within an hour he came back and said that BAM would get Ord Industrial and Commercial Supplies to convert a 10ft container if we wanted.”
The modified container was delivered to Harmsworth Park last week.
“I asked Logan Henderson from GMR Henderson if he would be able to get the container in position. They were only too happy to help, as it was for the kids.
“They sent a machine and two workers to the park and we managed to get the container in place.”
The container is currently between the South Stand and the South Road end of the park.
“This is its temporary location,” Andrew explained. “We wanted to put it beside the top goals but, with all the recent rain, it wasn’t possible. We hope to move it come the summer.
“The committee, management and players sacrifice a lot for the club, and especially the players at this time of year. Hopefully the ultras can spur the team on and they get the winning mentality back.”
As reported in July, the club appealed for boys and girls of primary five to seven age to become part of the Black and White Mini Ultras.
Andrew added: “The long-term aim is to expand the group to other age groups, but that would mean getting a larger container. If there are any companies out there that would like to donate one, it would be more than welcome.
“I would like to thank BAM Nuttall, Ord Industrial and Commercial Supplies and Gerry and Logan Henderson from GMR Henderson for making this happen and for spreading some Christmas cheer to the Black and White Mini Ultras.”
Anyone interested in getting involved should see a committee member or email wickacademyfc@highlandleague.com for a membership form.
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