St Andrews United FC – End of Season Chairman’s Report 2024/25

As the curtain falls on what has been another eventful and memorable season for St Andrews United, I’d like to take this opportunity to reflect on the past year and share our plans for the future.

After two successive promotions, we knew stepping into the East of Scotland Premier Division would be a significant challenge, and the early part of the campaign proved exactly that. I’d like to begin by extending my sincere thanks to Garry Wright for his efforts at the start of the season. Garry has played a vital role in our recent successes, but following a run of disappointing results, he felt the time was right to step down. His integrity and passion for the club are greatly appreciated.

Following Garry’s departure, Stevie Clark stepped up to steady the ship, and I am immensely grateful for the energy, commitment, and leadership he showed during a testing period. Stevie’s efforts guided the team on an impressive unbeaten run and provided the platform for what was to come.

In November, we were delighted to welcome Greg Shields as our new first-team manager. Greg brings with him a wealth of experience from a distinguished playing career, which included spells with Rangers FC and Dunfermline Athletic, among others. His deep knowledge of the Scottish game and natural leadership have already had a hugely positive impact on the club.

Joining Greg was Stuart Milne, Director of Football at St Andrews University. Stuart’s involvement strengthens our existing ties with the University, and we see this relationship as a key pillar of our club’s growth moving forward.

We are also thrilled that Stevie Clark has agreed to remain as part of the coaching staff. With Greg, Stuart, and Stevie working together, I genuinely believe we now have one of the strongest and most dynamic coaching teams in Scottish non-league football.

Since taking the reins, Greg and his team have put in a power of work, and the improvement on the pitch has been there for all to see. Saturday’s 3–1 victory over Edinburgh University FC capped off a strong finish to the campaign and secured a well-deserved 9th place in our debut season at this level.

A special mention must go to our loanee players – John Tod, Freddie Rowe, Lewis Lorimer, David Cabrelli, Kyle Thomson, and Finlay Allan – who each played a key role throughout the season. Their professionalism and talent have greatly contributed to our progress. A particular congratulations goes to John Tod, who had an exceptional season and walked away with a clean sweep of the player awards last week – a fantastic achievement.

We are extremely grateful to their parent clubs – Dunfermline FC, Dundee FC, and St Johnstone FC – for allowing these players to join us. We look forward to continuing these partnerships and helping develop the next generation of Scottish talent by providing valuable competitive experience.

Off the pitch, I’d like to offer my heartfelt thanks to every supporter who came down to the Clayton Caravan Recreation Park this season. Your backing means everything to us, and it’s your passion and presence that keep this club alive and thriving. Whether you stood by the pitch in the pouring rain or cheered us on during our big wins, your support has been invaluable.

Our thanks also go to the many local businesses who have backed the club, especially main club sponsors Clayton Caravan Park and Skye Sands. When I first became Chairman, we had just 10 pitch-side sponsorship boards. Thanks to the tireless work of Vice Chairman Eric Gillespie, we now have over 60 – a testament to the growing enthusiasm and belief in what we’re building at St Andrews United. This support is not only appreciated but essential to our continued progress.

Looking ahead to the close season, the work won’t stop. Greg is already identifying potential additions to strengthen the squad, and we’re delighted to have secured a number of our key players on extended contracts – giving us a solid foundation to build upon.

With league reconstruction likely ahead of the 2026/27 season, our goal for the coming year is clear: we are targeting a top-three finish to secure promotion to what is expected to become the new Lowland League East. It’s an ambitious goal, but one we believe is within our reach.

Please keep an eye on our website and social media in the coming weeks for announcements regarding squad developments and other updates, including plans to enhance our facilities. As mentioned at the recent awards night, our old social club building will soon be going up for sale. This decision was not taken lightly, but it will provide much-needed funds to improve the matchday experience and safeguard the long-term future of the club. Every penny raised will be reinvested back into the club and its facilities.

To conclude, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved with St Andrews United – players, coaches, volunteers, sponsors, supporters, and committee members. Your unwavering commitment is what makes this club so special. Together, I believe we are building something truly exciting, and I am confident that the best is yet to come.

Enjoy your summer, and we look forward to seeing you all back at The Rec for the 2025/26 season.

Fraser Ogston
Chairman, St Andrews United FC