???? Edinburgh Tartan Army Turns 30

Today marks a milestone for ETA — the 30th anniversary of the Edinburgh Tartan Army, the capital’s proud supporters’ group for the Scotland national team. Founded on 5th November 1995, ETA has grown from a handful of passionate fans into a vibrant community that spans generations, cities, and stadiums across Europe.

A Night to Remember

Held at The Place, Edinburgh, last Saturday the 30th Anniversary Dinner brought together founding members, lifelong supporters, and new faces for an evening of celebration. With the Gimme Gimme Gimmes, Scottie the Piper setting the tone, a hearty Scottish menu, and DJ Tam Coyle, the night was packed with laughter, memories, and a few surprises.

The highlight? A special appearance by Craig Gordon, Scotland legend and 4th highest capped player (to date), who answered our questions, posed for photos, and reminded everyone why he’s one of the most respected figures in Scottish football. His presence was a true honour for the group — and a fitting tribute to ETA’s legacy.

Thanks again to everyone who came along, the venue was excellent and all the people who made it happen (especially Gill, Adele and Marydoll for dressing the room). Special thanks to the Ardnamurchan Distillery and the Piper’s Rest for supporting the event and Craig and Summer Gordon for being our special guests.

From Hampden to Hong Kong — and Beyond

Over the past three decades, ETA members have followed Scotland through thick and thin: from the heartbreaks of near-qualification to the euphoric return to major tournaments under Steve Clarke. Whether it’s a midweek friendly or a Euros decider, the Edinburgh Tartan Army has been there — flags flying, voices raised, and hearts full. Excluding the 2 Covid matches in Israel there has been an ETA member in the city for every Scotland national team fixture since we formed in 1995. For completeness all Scotland fixtures since 5th November 1995 are included in the statistics below. Of course our members have gone well beyond that, also following the Scotland Women’s National Team to the Euros, a World Cup and many other fixtures. There have been ETA presences at many a youth team game and the odd B international too.

30 Years in Numbers

• Founded: 5th November 1995
• Major tournaments attended: 4 (and counting!)
• Total Matches: 277 (Won 116 – Drawn 58 – Lost 101 – 2 Wins on Penalties)
• Away trips (including neutral venues): 148 (51 – 33 – 63 – 1)
• Members: Currently just over 200 (600-700 over the 30 years)
• Beers sampled: Far far too many to count

More Than Just Football

ETA isn’t just about matchdays — it’s about friendship, community, and a shared love of Scotland. From travel logistics to ticket scrambles, charity fundraisers to heritage projects, the group continues to blend tradition with modern tech, tartan with touchscreen.

Here’s to the Next 30

As we look back on three decades of passion and pride, we raise a glass to everyone who’s been part of the journey. The Edinburgh Tartan Army isn’t just a supporters’ group — it’s a family.