POLES APART BUT TOGETHER IN FOOTIE Iain Ferguson Two talented Lochaber footballers on opposite sides of the world and at opposite ends of their careers have been recognised for their skills and dedication to ‘the beautiful game’. Former Caol man James Campbell has been honoured in Australia for his commitment to football being awarded life membership of Football Victoria. Originally from Clunes Avenue, he left school at 15, becoming Aberdeen FC’s youngest debutant. He later moved to Melbourne to further his footballing career, playing in 225 National Soccer League games with three clubs in Victoria, also turning out three times to represent the State. He then embarked on a coaching career over three decades, leading junior age state teams into several National Championships
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and playing a key role in the implementation and delivery of ‘Football Victoria’s’ academy programme. Closer to home in Fort William, 22-yearold goalkeeper Martin MacKinnon has been recognised for his footballing achievements with the award of Young Footballer of the Year by his present club, Clachnacuddin FC. Martin began his footballing career with Fort William FC Juniors, before signing for Caley Thistle Under 11s, working his way through their youth squads to their first team. He also gained experience with spells on loan to Buckie and Fort William FC, but didn’t take up the offer of a new deal with Caley Thistle, joining Clachnacuddin last summer to continue enjoying the game at senior level.
| june 2022
Lochaber Life June 2022.indd 34
09/05/2022 16:46:01
