Ex-Aberdeen FC ‘legends’ pass on expertise to 65 young footballers in Thurso
Around 65 young footballers took part in AG Coaching’s latest training event at the Dammies in Thurso, benefiting from coaching sessions led by three Aberdeen stars of the 1990s.
The youngsters were joined by former Scotland striker Duncan Shearer, alongside ex-Blackburn Rovers and England “B” forward Mike Newell and Finnish frontman Mixu Paatelainen, whose clubs included Bolton Wanderers and Dundee United.
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The event provided an opportunity for aspiring footballers to learn from highly experienced coaches, with Shearer, Newell, and Paatelainen delivering high-quality sessions.
Several players were recognised for their efforts, with Conor Simpson, Oscar Campbell, Jamie Helliwell, Ollie Simpson, Lachie Wann, Leonard Bajena, Andrew Sutherland, and Harry Alexander each named as “players of the day” and receiving an AG Coaching water bottle as a reward.
On the Saturday evening, a Q&A session was held at the Holborn Hotel, where the three former professionals shared stories and insights from their careers. The session was well attended, with plenty of engagement from the audience.
Reflecting on the weekend, Duncan Shearer said: "I had a great time coaching in Thurso with two of my old strike partners, Mixu and Mike.
“They spoke highly of the talented kids at the training. The weather was also kind to us, unlike the snow we had last year.
“We had a good turnout for the Q&A on the Saturday night with plenty of laughs.
“Special mention goes to Alyn Gunn [AG Coaching] for organising and making sure we were well looked after, alongside the staff in the hotel. It is getting bigger and better each year.”
Mixu Paatelainen said: “I had a great weekend up in Thurso coaching the kids and answering questions in the evening at the Q&A.
“It was great catching up with Duncan and Mike as well. In my role with UEFA and the SFA, it’s always great to come to places such as Thurso and see the next generation of young footballers, and it is quite clear that there is talent in the area.
“Well done to Alyn for organising this event and thank you to everyone for the hospitality. I will hopefully see you all again later in the year if everything goes to plan.”
Alyn Gunn, who set up AG Coaching in 2023, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Duncan, Mike, and Mixu to Thurso for the first AG Coaching event of the year.
“Each event I aim to improve on the last, so it was fantastic to have three UEFA A-licensed coaches working with the children. The level of training was excellent.
“All three gents were very humble when discussing their careers during the Q&A, sharing great stories that made for an enjoyable evening.
“I’d also like to thank the event sponsors – without their support, this wouldn’t have been possible – as well as the parents for their continued commitment to bringing their children along.”
It is hoped that Mixu will make a return later in the year to visit local schools for further Q&A sessions.
Meanwhile, a planned March event with Billy Dodds has been postponed due to his appointment as interim assistant manager at Rangers. It is hoped this will be rescheduled for later in the year.
The next AG Coaching event is set to take place in May, with Ross County leading the sessions.
