Chairman Alex Chisholm believes Clachnacuddin are on the right road to success in the Highland League
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CHAIRMAN Alex Chisholm believes Clachnacuddin are on the right road to achieving success in the Highland League.
In his Christmas message to supporters, Chisholm says the Merkinch outfit are making the right moves to becoming a stronger force in the division in the future.
The Lilywhites have experienced a difficult campaign so far this season as they are languishing in 16th place and only eight points above bottom.
However, Clachnacuddin did reach the North of Scotland Cup final earlier this season, going down in the final 2-1 to Brora Rangers at Grant Street Park.
Chisholm says it has been a frustrating campaign, but believes better days are ahead.
"On the pitch we have made progress in terms of last season’s league position and this season we reached our first cup final in eight years, deserving of our performances but this has been tempered by some frustrating results.
"Our squad is a work in progress and learning how challenging the Highland League can be, but we will reset and look to increase our points tally into the New Year.
"We set out to create a playing identity for the club and to become as competitive as possible, this is never going to happen overnight.
"But I believe we are on the right road for longer term success."
Clachnacuddin also entered a youth team into the North Caledonian League this season for the first time in over a decade.
Chisholm says he is confident this will lead to greater success in the future.
"Part of this plan was to introduce our young reserve squad into a very competitive North Caledonian League, and this is bearing fruit with Jordan already having selected players for first team involvement.
Our youth development continues to be a massive part of this pathway and credit must go to our coaches who work to improve the players who are progressing through the age groups.
"We have also continued with our Women’s squad who will have a new management team in place for their Highlands and Islands League campaign and I wish them all the best for next season."
Chisholm was one of the leading voices for Highland League games to have earlier kick-off times to save on energy costs.
He says they will continue to look at ways to save money at the club.
"Earlier kick off times have gone some way to reduce our costs as has the availability of mini- buses from our main shirt sponsor the Orion Group.
"But we will continue to look for ways to improve the clubs standing and support our staff.
"This is also a time for looking forward and I believe with optimism for the club.
"The support from the business community for all our teams continues to grow and we will continue to help others where possible.
"In 2023 we see engagement with local schools and local partnerships as being vital for the future of a club at the heart of the community."
