South Scotland MSP and former Olympic athlete Brian Whittle joined members of Auchinleck Talbot Goalkeeping Academy for a recent training session. MSP Brian was invited to come along after meeting head coach Cameron Black when he met apprentices at Spirit Aerosystems.
As well as training with the aspiring goalies, Brian also spent some time talking about his time as a professional athlete, emphasising the importance of dedication and training required to succeed in sport. The MSP also talked about his time playing in goal for his school football team and later coaching at Ayr United, Kilmarnock & St Mirren.
Commenting, Brian said:
“Community sports clubs like this have been the starting ground for so many footballers that are now household names. It was great to join Auchinleck Talbot Goalkeeping Academy for a training session and see the enthusiasm on display.
Local sports clubs like this are a great way to become involved in sport, get fitter and learn skills like discipline and teamwork that can benefit you throughout your life. It was good of Cameron and the goalies to invite me along and let me have a go.”
Comment from Cameron Black, Auchinleck Talbot Goalkeeping Academy:
'Goalkeeping is an often overlooked ability in grassroots football so I feel very proud that we are able to provide the vital support required to the goalkeepers from the various age groups within the Auchinleck Talbot youth academy.
It was great to have Brian along to take part in the session and impart valuable knowledge from his own experiences in sport. I am sure the players will have taken his advice on-board and will use it to aid their own progression and development.'
