The NFG Story
No Fame Games, LLC started in 2021 as a grassroots backyard for athlete, by athlete event. It was a rally cry to our sisters and brothers uniting in rebellion to the social oppression and solitude caused by covid. We banded together to remember, to bring back, the camaraderie and love of the Heavy Events in our local area, New England USA. It was not for trophies, numbers on a national database, clout, or competition. Nor was it for fame. The goal remains to foster and promote Celtic strength and its culture.
By focusing on the camaraderie within the community of athletes we also decided to give back to the elders who have given so much to us throughout the decades. Effectively, giving recognition back to those with 'no fame'. Lineage is important to us. Community is important to us. Carrying the torch on for the future generations is important to us.
Our attention stays on inclusivity, community, equality, and mutual respect. Our events are for everyone, at whatever level of athleticism you are at. We are here to celebrate strength, and celebrate each other. We are here to be stronger ourselves so we can be better to lift each other up, and hold each other accountable to standards of moral and physical excellence.
Using the model and format of the Highland Games, our events and offerings include: Scottish Highland Games Heavy Events, Team Highlander (Strongman) Competition, Celtic Stonelifting, Celtic Wrestling, Celtic Clan Organizations, and Kid activities. We are passionate about the history and tradition of Celtic Strength Culture, and we are dedicated to providing a safe and fun environment where people from all walks of life can engage in these activities. Our team strives tirelessly throughout the year preparing to make each of our events an unforgettable experience; all with the goal of ensuring the spirit of Celtic Sports stays alive, flourishes, and is protected for the future generations to come.
Today, our logo and reputation has permeated the Heavy Athletics culture. No Fame Games™ has become a reminder of why we do what we do: For the Love of the Games.
Behind THE SCENES
Joshua Mackintosh
Chef
As the Founder of the LLC, Josh pushes the Celtic athletics community envelope, fulfilling whatever task is required: networking, bridge-building, advocation & agency, athletic directing, & stoking the hype train. He translates why Celtic strength sports are the thing you didn't know you needed in life and business, striving to bridge the gap between the wisdom of the old with the innovation of the new.
David Swanson
Designer, Screenprinter
David 'The Baron' Swanson is the owner/operator of Alpha Iron Press, which works with people and companies to design and hand screenprint the shirts and swag of dreams. Based out of Austin Texas, Dave has been with us from the get go and is the main reason why people know the NFG brand: our design, logos, and iconic high-quality shirts.
Ken Gustavson
Equipment, Judge
For decades Ken 'Kenny G' has supplied equipment for, athletic-directed, or been involved in almost all Highland Games throughout New England. Some would say HG wouldn't have continued in New England if it wasn't for Ken. The recipient of our 2022 NFG Support and Guidance Award, he has acted as Head Judge to our Pro Classes, Advisor, Counselor, and Supporter. Thank you Ken for all you have done, and all you do.
Hannah Linzay
Strength Coordinator
Hannah is a legend in the sport of Strongman. One of the greatest female athletes, competitors, and show-woman the world has ever seen. Known for her incredible feats of strength, she is also an incredible human. And she has connected NFG with countless movers and shakers in the strength world. Be sure to watch her compete & follow her socials!
Tom Higgins
Irish Collar & Elbow Wrestling
Co-Founder of the Collar & Elbow Federation. As a reigning 3x Catch Wrestling World Champion, BJJ Black Belt, pioneer in the revival of Irish Collar and Elbow Wrestling, and Chieftain at Wrestling Wars Tom is at the forefront of wrestling authority in the world. His passion and dedication to Irish and Celtic culture is infectious. He leads the Irish Wrestling at Home Games, and we are blessed to have him presence, wisdom, and skills with us! Sláinte!
Steve Tripp
Team Highlander Coordinator
Steve Tripp is the owner and operator of The Top Strength Project in Rhode Island. With decades of experience running shows and helping the strength community in the Northeast, Steve is a renowned powerhouse mover and shaker. He has promoted and assisted the Team Highlander Competition to grow and become a respected part of the Northeast's competition repertoire. Follow him on IG and visit The Top Strength Project.
Mark Flaherty
Logistics, Venue Management
Since 2021, Mark has been kind enough to offer his highly seasoned managerial skills running large dental insurance companies towards our overall Games and venue logistics, including HQ. A mastermind, part-time comedian, musician. and avid golfer!
Jason Zucco
Photography
Jason is a world renowned photographer and cinematographer. He very graciously joined us under the Clan Shenanigan banner in 2024 and has given us some mind-blowing photography. Check out his site!
Jennifer Yarro
Head Honchess
Our Events Director behind the curtain making everything come together. A fire Goddess and fierce Mama-bear, Jenn brings her experience of having built three independent grass-roots businesses to international brand awareness. She fulfills marketing, strategy, community building, venue, and vendor coordination for events and NFG's mission to be a leading presence in the strength sport arena.
Eric Dawson
Team Highlander
Owner / Operator of Titan Barbell in Stoneham, MA, Eric is renowned as one of the strongest men in New England. Professional strongman prowess aside, he is a leader with immense intelligence, moral compass, dependability, and kindness. His immaculate character and professionalism pervade everything he does, and for us we are blessed that he acts as an advisor and also Judges our Team Highlander competition.
Ray McHatton
Clan Village
A Cat Clan brother through and through, Ray coordinates with other Clan Organizations for our Home Games' Clan Village. He has been going to Highland Games festivals around New England for decades. Much of that time has been dedicated as a tent representative for Clan Chattan. Check out his YouTube Channel: 'Touch Not'.
Spencer Tyler
Highland Games Heavy Events
Considered the GOAT of the Highland Games Heavy Events, Spencer is the 2019 World Champion and holder of 5 World Records. A legendary figure in the Heavy Events world, he develops and runs the Celtic Championship Series: a Pro League for Highland Games Heavy Events. Since 2023 he has helped NFG strengthen it's reputation and skillset in the Highland Games & Celtic Festival space worldwide.
Nathan Featherstone
Irish Stickfighting, Collar & Elbow
Co-Founder of the Collar & Elbow Federation and scholar of Irish Martial Arts, Nathan is the owner/operator of The Rambling Kern in Dublin. He is the only current instructor of the two living lineages of Irish Stickfighting.
Gerard Devine
Celtic Poetry
The epitome of the Irish working class hero, by day Gerard is a Dublin firefighter. When not saving lives, he has become nationally renown as a poet; depicting and educating on what it means to be Irish and see the beauty, majesty, and blessings in the every day of Irish life, history, and identity.
Christine O' Connell
Setup & Volunteer Support
Christine - and hubby Shawn - have been huge supporters and essential to the behind-the-scenes of running Games since 2021. They help spread the good word of NFG. We could not be more thankful and grateful for everything they have done and continue to do. Not just for us, but for Celtic Strength community in New England as a whole.
Sam Dobbins
Videography
Sam is a world renowned videographer and photographer, often teaming up with fellow photographer Jason Zucco. Sam joined us for 2025 Home Games and much of our footage comes from that ultimate tag-team. Be sure to follow him on Instagram
Jessica Cameron Kellum
Guardian Angel
Jess is our resident Guardian Angel. We would not be where we are today if it was not for her wisdom, time, dedication, selflessness, and skills. Her support having NFG's back, believing in the mission has been a very bright guiding light. She is the creator and operator of Celtic New England which promotes and brings together all things Celtic in the New England area.
Martin Jancsics
Scottish Stonelifting
The Stone Man himself. No introduction needed. Featured in the docu-films: Stoneland and Stones. Self-proclaimed as the most handsome member of the crew, he is a cherished and honored leader. Our 2025 Games Chieftain, a lover of Still Game, and one of the best people you'll ever meet.
Tom McMann
Videography
Tom McMann is one of the most professional and talented videographers we are blessed to collaborate with. All of the drone, fpv drone, and most of our recent video footage comes from him. If you are looking for someone to cover your event, and produce results FAST, hire him immediately.
Ken Nowicki
Cerberus Strength
Ken has been a supporter, sponsor, coordinator, and promoter of NFG from the start in 2021. He grew Cerberus USA into the giant it is today in the sport of Strongman and strength culture. Ken also is co-founder of a marketing company that helps businesses and organizations with their growth and development.
CJ Murphy
Chief Craic Specialist, Emcee
CJ "Murph" Murphy is a legitimate legend in the New England Strongman, Powerlifting, and Strength scene. Owner and operator of TPS Malden and TPS Tactical, everybody knows and respects Murph. Often successfully bribed by Jameson and good Irish Craic, he has assisted behind the scenes with Event logistics, setup, Emcee skills, and security.
Robert Troupe
Advisor, Judge, Setup Logistics
Robert Troupe is a legend in the Highland Games and Stonelifting world. He was top 3 in the world as an athlete and considered one of the best Caber tossers of all-time. Robert's experience, skill, wisdom, and guidance is immensely appreciated and cherished. We are blessed to have his support, and indeed New England is lucky he is still so involved in helping the Games stay alive.
Big Stash Buck
Emcee
Buck hails from the South and is a staple figure in the Highland Games & Festival world in the Southeast. A Chef, and former Heavy Athlete himself Buck acts as Emcee for the Highland Games Heavy Events. Need an Emcee for your event? Reach out to him!
Koreena Hemker
Photography
Koreena hails from Michigan and travels the world photographing sports and athletics. Her still photography is highly sought after, and she approached us in 2023 to be a part of Home Games. We are so grateful she did, her work is amazing. Check out her website!
Eric Langlais
Craic Commissioner
Codename 'Calves', Eric is one of the founders and originators of NFG. By night he is integral to Methuen, MA's water. And from the very get-go he has been the heart and behind-the-scenes facilitator in networking, sponsorships, team connectivity, group dynamics, and most importantly ensuring everyone is having a damn good time.
David Keohan
Irish Stonelifting
David aka Indiana Stones has become a legend in Ireland, and at the forefront of revitalizing the dying tradition of stonelifting in Ireland. Having help rediscover over 50 historic stones himself, he has been featured on TV Shows, Documentaries, and dozens of podcasts. Be sure to follow him on his social media!
Sarah Furman
Videography
Sarah is the official videographer and photographer for Cerberus USA. Her artistic work in highlighting strength sports is world-renowned and speaks for itself. We were lucky enough to have her join us in 2024 and are stoked for what she has in store for us this year!
John Taylor
Scottish Backhold Wrestling
John is a living legend in the Scottish Backhold Wrestling world. A multi-European champion, Scottish national champion, and considered the prestige of the lineage of Backhold Wrestling. We are very honored to have John as part of our team, spearheading the organization and promotion of Scottish Backhold Wrestling to the Highland Games and Celtic Festival communities in North America.
Tom Billinge
Celtic Martial Arts
Tom aka WarYoga is a prolific author, writer, and editor. He has been a dedicated martial arts for decades, possessing a passion for and fascination with ancient traditions and modalities. A scholar and a gentleman he connects NFG to Martial Artists for the Celtic Wrestling of Home Games. Be sure to visit his website.
Melissa Yarro
HQ, Merch
Missy has been a godsend from our start in 2021. Always on our side, always showing up even when it's tough, and always rooting for NFG. She has continually supported and volunteered her time to make sure our Games happen. Her and her twin girls are a staple. Find her at our HQ!
Cassie Montague
Photography / Videography
Cassie brings her experience as an athlete and introverted genius to capture some of the most vivid and cinematic Highland Games photography and videography in modern times. She joined us for the 2023 season and her work lives in infamy.
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2025 Logo Design
Designed by our Master Designer Dave Swanson, the 2025 logo continues with the theme of incorporating the two cultures of the Celts and the Norse.
Bridget / Brigid, the Celtic Goddess, renowned amongst the Celts as a beacon for healing, compassion, the arts, fertility, smithing, and alchemical fire. Her tree is the Oak, and trademark the open flame with flowing hair. This image is bridged with the Norse Goddess, Freya. Her being a symbol of battle, the journey of death, love, beauty, mysticism, and travel. Her tools are said to be the cloak of falcon feathers, flowers especially the daisy, and divine armor. Our heroine is connected to and surrounded by Mother Earth, with her roots digging deep and providing life and beauty to all within her womb. She is crowned, wielding a shield as a shieldmaiden from the Norse tradition, armed, and ready for battle.
These archetypes and role models exhibit the core values we uphold in the polarity / expression of the feminine, on and off the field. Of which we have seen the female athletes emulate so powerfully.
In 2025 we wish to continue to unite together our Celtic and neighboring Norse cultures, bringing out the best in us as people and a community of strength.
2024 Logo Design
Designed by our Master Designer Dave Swanson, this year's logo incorporates the two cultures of the Celts and the Norse.
Odin, the one-eyed All-Father, sacrificed his eye in order to gain true wisdom and vision of the world. He is the symbol of war, victory, wisdom, sorcery & mysticism, literature, the written letters or runes, wrath/frenzy, and death among other things. Perhaps most recently he is known most notably as the Father of Thor. The lightning scar over his right eye is a symbol of that sacrifice and victory. The Green Man is a Celtic symbol for the cycle of life, death and re-birth, as well as nature, often paired with the Oak Tree. The symbol of godhood - or divinity - within the masculine and its relationship with the transcendent life force - Goddess or the feminine expression of divinity.
Flanked on either side of our Champion are the two Ravens: Hunginn and Munnin, respectively "thought" and "memory/mind", used to bring information to and act as messengers for Odin.
In 2024 we wish to unite together our Celtic and neighboring Norse cultures, bringing out the best in us as people and a community of strength.
