Inverness-based youth football club Balloan FC announce ‘feeder club’ collaboration with Strathspey Thistle
A youth football club in Inverness has announced a “groundbreaking” new partnership with Highland Football League club Strathspey Thistle.
Balloan FC, which currently runs 15 teams for school years S1 to S6 — including representation at under-16 and under-18 level in the Highland League youth setup — has signed a deal to develop young players who can then progress to the Grantown-based outfit.
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The collaboration will establish the Inverness-based youth outfit as a “feeder club” for the Jags, with a specific focus on the development of players over the age of sixteen.
The agreement is the latest move in a wholesale restructuring of Thistle’s football affairs, which has seen Josh Horton and Fraser Tulloch appointed to director roles, and Bobby Beckwith and Ronnie Sharp take the reins as co-managers.
Youth hot-shots Balloan FC recently scooped a Highland League youth double, winning the under-16 and under-18 league championships in their respective regions, while also claiming the overall under-16 title for the association.
The partnership, the clubs say, will create a seamless pathway for promising young players who have the potential to excel at higher levels of the game.
James Fraser, chairperson of Balloan FC, said: “I am thrilled to announce our new partnership with Strathspey Thistle FC.
“This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our club’s history and opens fantastic opportunities for both clubs to share resources, knowledge, and passion for the game.
“The success of our youth teams in the Moray Firth Youth League and Highland Football League over the past few years has been nothing short of remarkable.
“Our U18s, U16s, and U14s have shown incredible talent, dedication, and sportsmanship, which have been the cornerstone of their achievements.
“Their consistent performance is a testament to the hard work of our coaching staff, committee members and the unwavering support of our community.
“We are excited about the future and confident that this partnership will further enhance our ability to nurture young talent and contribute positively to the development of Scottish football.”
Fraser Tulloch, director of football at Strathspey Thistle said: “I am delighted Strathspey Thistle FC will work in partnership with Balloan FC.
“Both clubs recognise the importance of discovering and nurturing both players and the coaching support staff behind them.
“The DNA of Strathspey Thistle FC long-term needs to support the development of local players, combined with Balloan and this strengthens our goal to create opportunities for northern talent to feel safe and express themselves.”
