10/06/2026
Today marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of Lothian C**ts as we officially begin a new journey as we join with Preston Athletic Youth.
While the badge may change, the memories, friendships, achievements and values that have defined Lothian C**ts over the years will live on forever.
On behalf of everyone involved with the club, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to every committee member, coach, player and parent, past and present, who has played their part in making Lothian C**ts such a special club. Grassroots football is built on the dedication of volunteers and families, and without your commitment, sacrifice and countless hours of hard work, none of what we achieved would have been possible.
There are a few individuals whose contributions deserve special recognition.
Firstly, to our founder, John McAlpine. Although John stepped away from the club a few years ago, he remained very much the heartbeat of Lothian C**ts. His vision, passion and determination laid the foundations for everything that followed. The opportunities provided to hundreds of young people over the years are a direct result of the club he created. John, your legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of Lothian C**ts, and for that we are eternally grateful.
To Lynsey Blair, thank you for everything you have done in your role overseeing child wellbeing and protection. Your experience and leadership as a Headteacher brought an invaluable perspective to the club. Whether attending training sessions and matches, supporting players and parents through difficult moments, or helping to ensure the welfare of every child remained at the heart of our decisions, your contribution has been immense. You have been an integral part of everything we have achieved.
To Colin Blair, our Vice Chair/Player Registration Officer and Secretary, thank you for the countless hours spent behind the scenes, often unnoticed but absolutely essential. From navigating sleepless nights trying to master the ever-changing COMET registration system to ensuring the club remained organised and compliant, your dedication never wavered. Alongside Sandy, you also guided a hugely successful 2008 age group, winning numerous trophies and, more importantly, helping develop a fantastic group of young men who are now moving into adulthood. Your impact on those players and the club will be long remembered.
To Eck, thank you for your tireless work over the years organising kits, pitches and all the countless tasks that keep a grassroots club running. Your efforts often happened away from the spotlight, but they were crucial to the success of every team. This season also brought deserved reward on the pitch, with your 2012 squad achieving a fantastic league and cup double. A tremendous achievement and one that reflects the hard work and dedication you have consistently shown.
To Leanne Craig, thank you for everything you have done for the club. Whether securing sponsorships, organising fundraising efforts or effectively becoming my personal assistant over the last year, your commitment and willingness to help have been incredible. Your support behind the scenes has made an enormous difference, and the club has been fortunate to have someone so dedicated in its corner.
To our departing Chairman, Lee Demarco, thank you for nearly fifteen years of service to Lothian C**ts. Throughout that time, you have helped shape the club both on and off the pitch. From building club relations, helping the coaching network and developing kids at every age throughout the club structure its been a hell off a ride, then there the guiding of your successful 2006 age group to multiple league and cup successes, to more recently developing the 2014 squad that will enter Division 1 next season under the Preston Athletic Youth banner, your commitment to young players and grassroots football has been unwavering. The club is in a stronger place because of your leadership, dedication and passion.
Finally, thank you to every child who ever pulled on a Lothian C**ts jersey. You are, and always have been, the reason this club existed. The trophies, league titles and cup wins created wonderful memories, but it was the friendships, confidence, life lessons and community spirit that truly defined what Lothian C**ts stood for.
As one chapter closes and another begins, we look forward to seeing our players continue their journeys with Preston Athletic Youth although some will depart in other directions we offer our best wishes to them also on their new journey.
We leave proud of everything Lothian C**ts achieved and grateful to everyone who made it possible.
Lothian C**ts may be coming to an end, but the legacy, friendships and memories will remain forever.
Thank you for everything.
Once a C**t, always a C**t." 💙⚽
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