Thurso Football Academy duo praised by Ross County chief executive
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Two stalwarts of Thurso Football Academy were taken by surprise when they were congratulated by the chief executive of Ross County for their commitment to the game at grassroots level.
Head of coaching Alyn Gunn and development officer Richie Campbell were invited to the Staggies' Scottish Premiership match against Kilmarnock as guests for the day. The gesture from the Dingwall club was an acknowledgement of the work Alyn and Richie have done since Thurso Football Academy began in 2013.
"During the speeches they caught us by surprise and explained to the 140 fellow hospitality guests that we were there as guests for our efforts over the past 10 years in providing opportunities for young footballers in Caithness," Alyn said.
He and Richie were presented with commemorative glass awards.
County's chief executive Steven Ferguson said: "It is important we at Ross County recognise the fantastic job Alyn and Richie do for grassroots football in the Highlands.
"The opportunities and experiences they have given to many young players in and around Thurso over the last 10 years has been fantastic. Congratulations and well done to both."
Alyn said: "I think myself and Richie were caught off guard – we weren't expecting the reception we received from Ross County at all.
"As always it is very nice to be acknowledged for the work that has been put into our events and I would like to thank all at Ross County for the hospitality shown on the day.
"This year being our 10th year, it was important for us to be able to put on memorable events for youngsters to attend – and, with more than 800 children participating over the course of the year, it proved to be very worthwhile "
Richie said: "We’d both like to thank Ross County for offering us the chance to see the game against Kilmarnock and for the hospitality we received.
"We were both surprised and delighted that they presented us with lovely gifts to mark our milestone of helping coach youngsters in Thurso over 10 years. We'd both like to wish County all the best for the rest of the season."
After the match, Alyn and Richie met Kilmarnock manager Derek McInnes who was happy to pose for a photo.
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In 2021, Alyn achieved a national accolade after producing a training booklet that helped thousands of youngsters across Europe to develop their skills during the pandemic. He was one of 25 coaches to be named as winners in the UK Coaching Hero Awards from nearly 500 public nominations.
The booklet called Tiny Tacklers was designed by Alyn as part of a Keep Scotland Active scheme in response to Covid. It used superheroes and cartoon characters to capture the imagination of children and keep them engaged in training drills and football-themed games.
Initially it was intended for just 25 children, but more than 10,000 youngsters across Europe received free copies. He also supplied free footballs and water bottles.
At the end of 2020, Alyn was named as a Coaching, Officiating and Volunteering champion in an award scheme run by SportScotland and UK Coaching.
