Crighton appointed head of academy pathway
We are delighted to announce that former Morton defender Sean Crighton has been appointed as head of our youth academy pathway.
The 28-year-old, who was part of the club’s 2014/15 League One title-winning team, will oversee the Under-13 to Under-18 age groups under the guidance of director of youth Derek Anderson.
Current Brechin City centre-half Crighton has worked within the academy as a coach since its inception in 2012 and will combine his part-time playing duties and work at the SFA Holyrood Performance School with his role.
The post is effective immediately, and the UEFA A, UEFA B, and Youth Elite A licence holder will also assist with the development squad.
Speaking to media officer Jonathan Mitchell, board member Anderson said: “I’ve worked with Sean for the last five and a half years in the youth academy.
“From day one, I’ve had Sean in. He knows what we’re trying to do in the academy: he undertstands it, he gets it, and I think he thoroughly deserves the post.
“He’s done really well and it was the logical next step in his personal progression and development. The timing was right for him.
“The role will see him assist me and put on sessions at different age levels in the Under-13 to Under-18 bracket, as well as taking a team himself and supporting the new 20s coach when he’s appointed in the summer.
“Sean is a young coach, up and coming, but he has proved over the years that he is a good coach. He is also currently playing, which is a big bonus for me.
“He’s experienced what it’s like to be injured, what it’s like to win, what it’s like to lose, to be relegated, to win championships – so he’s got a wealth of experience there that he can pass on to the kids.”
Chief executive Warren Hawke added: “Sean’s appointment underlines the board of directors’ commitment to our youth development programme as a long-term strategy for the club’s future sustainability and success.
“We are 100 per cent committed to the development of local talent and giving those boys the best opportunity to fulfil their dreams of becoming professional footballers.”
Image: Jonathan Mitchell
