Greenock Telegraph | Sport | Ton goalie moves on to teach

Saturday, 6th September, 2008

Published: Wednesday, 7th May, 2008 12:00

Ton goalie moves on to teach

By Steven McArthur

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Pastures new: Keeper David McGurn is seeking a new career after being offered the opportunity to take up a teaching role.

FREED Morton goalkeeper David McGurn is switching shot stopping for book swotting as he changes path with his career.

The 27-year-old left the club by mutual agreement last week, and has an interview lined up to become a lecturer in sports coaching development.

He is also on the lookout for a part-time club, and said: “I’m 28 this year, so the decision was whether to play full-time for one more year, or play part-time and pursue teaching.

“The course covers a variety of sports, not just football, as well as important aspects like creating fitness programmes specific to adults or children.

“I went to college and uni to study for it, and my coaching at Morton is also a benefit.

“I had a great few years at the club, but it was the right time to move on in this way.”

McGurn featured in the No 1 jersey for the Ton this season in rotation with on-loan Lee Robinson, as both players struggled to make their mark during a torrid term for the Greenock men.

But the goalie insists that no matter what the outcome had been for Davie Irons’ men this season, he would have been drawn by the stability of teaching — but wouldn’t rule out a return to the club.

He said: “No matter what happened this year with Morton, I would have been looking to move on.

“I’m going to keep my eye on football coaching. If Davie Irons and Derek Collins wanted me back to coach I’d seriously consider it.”

Ex-Morton goalkeeper David Wylie, who was drafted in to take over the coaching role, said: “Dave’s a good lad, and he is a very confident guy. I’m sure he’ll have no problem whatsoever [lecturing].

“He’s still relatively young as a goalkeeper, and still has a lot to learn, but he is very capable.

“I know that it’s been something he wants do to.”

Now the Ton are without a goalkeeper, and Wylie notes the search for a replacement is a priority.

He said: “We have identified a few possibilities, but it’s still early and there is nothing definite yet.”

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