We’re delighted to announce the appointment of Craig Sutherland as our new Head of Youth Development.
A local lad who lives in Renton and attended Vale of Leven Academy, Craig joins the club with a wealth of experience designing and leading player development pathways across grassroots, academy, senior and professional football.
Most recently with Renton Craigandro where he delivered and maintained their SFA Quality Mark status, Craig also spent time as the Academy Manager at Rossvale and Head of Youth Development at Highland League side Inverurie Loco Works.
He has also worked as Professional Development Coach for Manchester City in the USA, and for the Citizens as a Foreign Expert Coach in China. As well as spending three years with Dundee and founding Elite Football Coaching.
Earlier in his career he spent time in a variety of coaching roles at Montrose, Formartine United, Hermes Juniors, Stonehaven Juniors and Cruden Bay Juniors.
Now he arrives at The Rock – sponsored by Marbill Coaches, at an exciting time for the club. With work ongoing to install an artificial playing surface at the ground, allowing pathway sides to train and play at our iconic home.
DFC Executive Director Cameron Watson said: “We had over 30 applications for this role and with our youth system being so important to the future of the club we wanted to take our time to find the right person.
“Speaking to Craig I am confident that we have. His passion and knowledge for football shines through. He brings over 20 years of experience coaching across the world and we are very lucky to have him.”
Craig added: “I am absolutely delighted to join my local club at this exciting time. Dumbarton Football Club should always be a pillar in the local community and I feel that this is the right time in my coaching journey that I can help influence the next generation of players.
“My aim is to have all the best local players at Dumbarton Football Club going through all age groups both boys and girls. Having helped develop top talent through the years I feel that this is the time for Dumbarton’s youth to shine, ensuring that we are a club for all.”
Welcome to DFC, Craig!