Buckie Rovers apply to join North of Scotland Football League and return to junior football scene after five years out
Buckie Rovers are set to return to the Scottish football pyramid system after a spell in the wilderness.
But the club needs help from their local community to safeguard their future.
The Merson Park outfit went into abeyance from the junior football scene five years ago, but are now taking steps to rejoin it.
Rovers are preparing an application to come back into the north juniors - now called the North of Scotland Football league - after two seasons in the Moray welfare leagues.
Next week they will hold their annual general meeting, looking to recruit fresh blood for a new chapter in the club’s proud history.
A player recruitment effort will also be required to make the team competitive again, should they be successful in getting a place in the league next season.
“From the early days in the junior ranks, the club has carried the name of Buckie with pride, competing with heart and passion across the North of Scotland,” said a club statement.
“For decades, the Rovers gave local players a platform to shine and gave our community moments of joy, pride, and togetherness.
“Unfortunately, in 2020, the club was forced into a period of abeyance. It was a painful chapter in the history, but it also gave people time to reflect, to regroup, and to plan for a future where Buckie Rovers would rise again.”
The club emerged from the ashes to join the welfare ranks in 2024, winning all three trophies in the Moray league set-up in their first season back.
A second term of welfare action allowed Rovers more time to build towards the big step back into their old junior stomping ground.
“What a journey it has been so far. On the park, we have enjoyed success, not just in results but in the spirit and determination shown by our squad.
“Off the park, the growth has been just as impressive. A strong, hardworking committee, tireless volunteers, and loyal supporters have turned this club into a model of community football. The Rovers are once again a name spoken with respect.
“We are now delighted to share that the wheels are officially in motion for Buckie Rovers to submit an application to rejoin the junior ranks—now known as the North of Scotland Football League—with the goal of returning for the 2026/27 season.
“This is a bold and exciting step, one that honours our proud history and signals a bright future for football in Buckie.
“We know, however, that this next chapter will not be easy. Moving back into this set-up will demand a significant rebuild on the park, with further commitment needed from all.
“While some of our current players will make the step up with us, we know that a good few will not—and we thank them for everything they have given the club. The challenge ahead is huge, but we are under no illusion about what it will take.
“The growth we’ve experienced over the last few years—both in welfare football and behind the scenes—has prepared us for this very moment.
“But to make this dream a reality, we need your help.”
Rovers’ AGM takes place next Tuesday, October 28 at the town’s Craigenroan Bar, where they are aiming to unearth more committee members to help strengthen their step forward.
“Our committee are a friendly, passionate group, and we believe that every single person no matter how big or small their role has an important part to play in bringing this level of football back to Buckie. No matter how big the role is within the club, your involvement will make a difference.
“Together, we can ensure that when the 2026/27 season arrives, Buckie Rovers Football Club will be back where they belong.
“The town of Buckie needs this and we need the town of Buckie.”