For over two decades, Alan has been a constant and much-loved presence at within the Eaglesham Primary School’s Active Schools programme. While officially serving as the school janitor, his contribution extended far beyond the day-to-day running of the building. Alan became a cornerstone of the school’s sporting life, dedicating his own time—lunchtimes and after school alike—to ensure the pupils had access to regular and meaningful physical activity.
Supporting up to five clubs each week, Alan’s commitment was entirely voluntary, driven only by his genuine passion for sport and providing opportunities for the local participants. His work exemplifies the vital role individuals can play in creating opportunities for children to be active, confident, and connected.
An Inclusive Impact
Much of Alan’s work was supported by the Active Schools network, which played a key role in enabling and sustaining his delivery over the years. Through this partnership, pupils at Eaglesham Primary have benefited from a wide-ranging and consistent programme of sport and physical activity.
Alan has regularly offered participants an impressively diverse selection of sports, including rugby, football, cross country running, table tennis, boccia, and badminton. This variety has not only kept his sessions engaging - but it has also ensured that every young person would hopefully be able to find something they wanted to participate in.
His efforts contributed to notable successes, particularly in the East Renfrewshire Cross Country Championships, where Eaglesham pupils performed strongly year after year.
Alan’s approach to coaching has always been shaped by his own lived experience. As a member of the deaf community, he has always understood first-hand the importance of inclusion within sport. His early involvement in rugby showed him that sport can - and should - be for everyone, regardless of their ability or background.
This belief became the foundation of the coaching philosophy that Alan has brought to his volunteer work. Alan has always tried to ensure that every session was welcoming, inclusive, and supportive. While there was always a healthy sense of competition, the emphasis remained firmly on enjoyment, learning, and participation rather than simply winning.
His sessions created an environment where all young people felt valued and able to contribute, helping to build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for being active.
Alan’s approach to coaching was shaped by his own lived experience. As a member of the deaf community, he understood first-hand the importance of inclusion in sport. His early involvement in rugby showed him that sport can—and should—be for everyone, regardless of ability or background.
This belief became the foundation of his coaching philosophy. Alan ensured that every session was welcoming, inclusive, and supportive. While there was always a healthy sense of competition, the emphasis remained firmly on enjoyment, learning, and participation rather than simply winning.
His sessions created an environment where all young people felt valued and able to contribute, helping to build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for being active.
Developing the Next Generation of Leaders
Alan’s influence extended beyond the pupils he coached directly. Over the years, Alan has played a significant role in developing the young leaders - encouraging and supporting them to take their own first steps into coaching. Many of these young people have since returned to Eaglesham Primary to assist in sessions, creating a powerful cycle of opportunity. This legacy of leadership development is a testament to Alan’s belief in giving young people the tools and confidence to succeed—not just in sport, but in life.
A Lasting Legacy in the Community
Even in the face of the health challenges that Alan has faced in recent years, Alan has remained committed to supporting sport within the Eaglesham area for as long as he could. His dedication never wavered, and his presence has continued to have a positive impact on pupils, staff, and the wider community.
Regularly described as 'a larger-than-life character', Alan’s contribution was recognised on a national stage when he was selected to carry the Queen’s Baton during the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Baton Relay. It was a fitting moment of recognition, with the local community turning out in force to celebrate someone who has given the community so much back in return.
Alan’s retirement due to ill health marks the end of an era for Eaglesham. However, through his unwavering commitment, inclusive ethos, and partnership with Active Schools, he has left a lasting imprint on generations of young people.
