FC Victoria are proud to present the addition of three former Scottish League Professionals to their Summer Teams Program, John Brownlie, John Blackley and Gordon Wallace. The trio of Scottish professionals will be sharing their professional playing and coaching experiences with FC Victoria's youth players and coaching staff later this spring.
"These coaches come referred to us by Swindon Town Manager, Paul Sturrock", noted Dave Dew, Technical Director of FC Victoria. "They bring a high standard of football expertise and are highly recognized for their playing and coaching experiences in Scotland and England. These guys are legends!"
Many of the FC Victoria youth are familiar with Gordon Wallace (pictured to the right above). He was a guest coach with FC Victoria's Summer Teams a year ago. The formidable striker and midfielder had a stellar professional playing and coaching career that spans over 45 years. He was Scotland's player of the year in 1968 and had stints with Montrose, Raith Rovers, Dundee, Dundee United and even with the Seattle Sounders (see photo on left) in the NASL in 1976 (he led the team in scoring with 12 goals) and again 1978. He once held the record for career Scottish League Goals with 264, an astonishing accomplishment.
John Blackley (pictured in the centre above) is a Hibernian legend and former Scottish International (1973-1976) where he played left back. He competed for Scotland in the 1974 World Cup. In 1977 he joined Newcastle United. His coaching career spans over 26 years where he has been a manager or an assistant with Hibernian, St. Johnstone, Dundee United, Plymouth Argyle and Sheffield Wednesday.
John Brownlie (pictured on the left) was a Scottish International from 1971-1975. This right back developed the traditional role of a tackling fullback into an attacking option with many inspiring runs along the right flank. A pioneer in his position. His career includes nine seasons with Hibernian, Newcastle United, Middlesborough, Hartlepool United, Berwick Rangers and Blyth Spartans.
The three guest coaches are an expansion to last years guest coaching roster and will join the likes of Sean McAuley (Sheffield Wednesday) and Mike Rigg (Blackburn Rovers) with the FC Victoria Summer Teams Program.
Tryouts for FC Victoria's Summer Teams commence on March 31st. Youth players from throughout Vancouver Island are invited to attend the tryout sessions. Register online today.
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