Inverness teenager signs deal with Highland League champions Buckie Thistle
HARVEY Fitzgerald says he is looking forward to the challenge of Highland League football after signing for defending champions Buckie Thistle.
The Inverness teenager has agreed a two-year deal to join up at Victoria Park where he is set to become the second choice goalkeeper.
The 16-year-old, a former pupil at Inverness Royal Academy, who now works as an apprentice plumber, is set to be in the squad for the first time for Saturday’s clash against Wick Academy.
Fitzgerald says he is delighted to have signed a deal with the defending Highland League champions and is set to be named on their teamsheet for the first time.
He says that he will be looking to make a big contribution to the team if he is called upon to play this season.
He said: “I am delighted to sign a deal at Buckie Thistle as I have seen their achievements from last season.
“I would like to contribute in any way possible to help the lads achieve similar success this season.
“I am looking forward to being at the club as their second choice goalkeeper.”
Fitzgerald will be back-up at Buckie for former Inverness Caledonian Thistle goalkeeper Mark Ridgers.
Ridgers joined the Jags after being released from the Caledonian Stadium in the summer after seven seasons at the club.
Fitzgerald says Ridgers is a player who he looks up to and will be looking to learn from the 33-year-old.
He said: “I think that I can learn a lot from Mark as it is a great opportunity for myself.
“I am aware of what Mark has achieved and he has shown what can be achieved in the Highlands.”
Fitzgerald was previously in the Ross County youth set-up before going on to play for Balloan Football Club.
This summer, Fitzgerald played for Balloan/Loch Ness in the Inverness and District Amateur League before going on to sign for Buckie Thistle.
He said Balloan helped him develop as a goalkeeper at youth level and is grateful to them for giving him the chance to play with one of the top teams in the Highland League.
He said: “I would like to thank Balloan as they have done a lot for me over the years.
“To help me develop to a point where I have signed with the Highland League champions is great.”
