Gow Valley boss Billy MacDonald is Clydesdale’s Coach of the Year

NEWLY crowned Carluke and Lanark Gazette Youth Football Awards Coach of the Year Billy MacDonald has worked near miracles at Lesmahagow’s Gow Valley FC in recent years.
By Craig Goldthorp
Published 26th May 2014, 12:30 BST
Magnificent manager...Billy MacDonald receives his award from Gazette editor Julie CurrieMagnificent manager...Billy MacDonald receives his award from Gazette editor Julie Currie
Magnificent manager...Billy MacDonald receives his award from Gazette editor Julie Currie

Billy – who picked up his prize at Carluke Masonic Hall – led the 1999s team to five trophies in two years and oversaw 14 of his squad signing professional contracts at senior clubs.

“I was absolutely delighted to get the award,” Billy said. “It was a great honour.

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“It was a team effort, as I had great help with the coaching side from Scott Robertson and my goalkeeping coach Eric Watson.

“The 1999s team was very successful. I had 16 boys over the four years and 14 of them signed pro youth contracts with other clubs at the end of last season.

“I got great fulfilment out of watching those boys progress. I did my job and took a lot of satisfaction from it.”

Billy said it was “unbelievable” that so many lads from his club had joined the professional ranks. Seven Gow Valley players signed for Airdrie, three – including Billy’s son Jamie – went to St Johnstone, two transferred to Clyde and one each went to Kilmarnock and Livingston.

Related topics:Clydesdale