In this episode of the Don MacNaughton Soccer Podcast, we speak with Steven Mackay, the current manager for Brora Rangers F.C. in the Highland League. Steven is a former Scottish professional footballer who began his career in Ross County and made appearances in the Scottish League. He describes how football not only developed his career but also personally making him a stronger person and helped develop his competitive character
Listen in to learn the importance of developing a strong character as a footballer to be able to be able to with stand judgment that comes from fellow players ,coaches and fans. You will also learn what it takes to transition from a player to a manager and the difference in responsibilities for both roles.
What You Will Learn:
· [0:06] Intro
· [0:51] He explains his involvement in the welding industry plus balancing between that role and being a football coach.
· [02:20] Steven describes how he grew up playing football in a place where that’s all they knew how to do.
· [5:00] How he got involved with Ross county at 14 years and the development he experienced there before going full-time at 17 years.
· [7:20] The character development he experienced at Ross county and the progression of the club during his time.
· [9:25] The importance of developing a ‘thick skin’ when you play full-time football.
· [10:44] How he adopted health and fitness habits and the benefits he has witnessed so far.
· [14:22] Steven played in the Highland League and his experiences.
· [16:01] He shares the highlights of his career in Brora Rangers- the loses and the wins.
· [21:32] The challenge of transitioning from a player to a manager.
· [24:01] The role of a part-time football club manager which goes beyond being part-time.
· [27:06] How Steven has formed a relationship of trust and challenging each other with his players.
· [28:39] The ambitions and expectations of Steven for his team in the upcoming season.
