The Scottish Schools’ FA (SSFA) today announced Gary Hughes as their new Patron ahead of the Boys’ Senior Shield final which takes place at Hampden on Friday 4 May, 7pm kick off. Gary Hughes has made a significant financial contribution to the SSFA to help secure its future and ensure ongoing support for their programme of national competitions.
The Scottish Secondary Shield is the oldest school football tournament in the world, first played for in 1904, with the winner being Paisley Grammar School. This year’s Boys’ Senior Shield finalists are St. Ninian’s High School, Giffnock and Cathkin High. Gary Hughes will be presented to the teams prior to the match and will present the trophy to the winning captain at the conclusion of the game.
Alex McMenemy, Treasurer, Scottish Schools’ FA said: “We are delighted that Gary has accepted the position of Patron of the Scottish Schools’ FA. It’s been a hard time financially for us and this donation will help us secure our future and ensure that we can continue to promote schools football across the country through our flagship national competitions. We thank Gary from the bottom of our hearts.”
Gary Hughes, Patron, Scottish Schools’ FA said: I’m passionate about grassroots football and passionate about the development of young players at all levels. I played school football when I was younger, and I have a lot of great memories from that time. It will be an experience of a lifetime for the players involved from St. Ninian’s High School and Cathkin High at Hampden on Friday and I’m looking forward to being involved.”
Malky Mackay, Performance Director, Scottish FA said: “This is great news for the Scottish Schools’ FA. Those involved in school football do so for the love of the game and they deserve a huge amount of credit for their commitment. Not only do they help grow the game at the grassroots level, but they also promote healthy living, education and team work.”
Below is a video with Hon. Treasurer Alex McMenemy, Gary Hughes and SFA Performance Director Malky Mackay talk about Schools’ football and its contribution to the life of youngsters.
