Many of you will know Gerry Devine. He joined us early in 2024 as our Heating and Renewables Sales Manager. But that’s just his day job. In addition to the great work Gerry does for us, he’s also the driving force behind the Forth Wanderers Community Football Club’s 2013 team. His passion for football and dedication to local kids make him a cornerstone of the club’s success – and that makes us at Precise incredibly proud.
The photo here is of Kai (Gerry’s son) with his Player of the Year Award and Gerry with his Coach of the Year Award. According to Gerry, Coach of the Year is just a wee ‘thing’ one of the parents does for the coaches to bring out a bit of competition, and he’s quick to point out that NO BRIBERY WAS INVOLVED IN HIM WINNING 😂
We sat down with Gerry recently to find out more about his involvement in the club, the club’s mission, and his hopes for club in the future so we could share all of that with you. Here’s what we asked and what he had to say:
What age group do you train?
“The 2013 age group, comprising young, eager footballers who embody the love for the game”.
Can you share a bit of the club’s history?
“The boys’ club was founded in 2002. My son joined about three years ago, and I took over as Head Coach in December 2021,” Gerry explains. His leadership has since transformed the club into a thriving hub for young players.
What’s your role at the club?
“As Head Coach, I, along with another coach, run the entire operation but thankfully, we have other coaches and helpers who generously give their time to assist during training and games.”
How did you get into this role?
“My oldest boy played with the team, and when it was on the brink of folding due to a lack of players, I stepped up. Fast forward to now, we have 24 boys across two teams and even started a 2018 age group recently.”
What does the club offer to local kids?
“We provide a space to be part of a football team, make friends, and showcase talents. And who knows? One of these kids might get picked up by an academy club one day 😉”
What are your hopes for the future?
“Our recent merger with the local semi-professional team has been exciting. We’re dreaming of transforming their park into a 4G pitch. It’s a big goal with a price tag of £250,000, but the benefits to the community and local clubs would be enormous.”
What does your weekly involvement look like?
“On Mondays and Wednesdays, I’m at the club from 5.45pm to 7.30pm. Saturdays are game days, and that takes up around two hours. Beyond that, I spend a few hours each week handling paperwork, arranging fixtures, referees, player registrations, and so on.”
Why do you do what you do for the club?
“Firstly, it’s a privilege to be involved in my son’s football journey. I get to see him play and train every week, which is fabulous. I also love seeing how much joy it brings to all the other local kids. In an age of screens, getting them out and active is so important.”
What do the kids get from you?
To this, with an ironic chuckle, Gerry replies, “Besides my obvious dedication? They get commitment and a nurturing environment to develop their football and social skills. I believe you become a product of your environment, so we create a space that emphasises teamwork and mutual respect. Bullying and name-calling aren’t tolerated. We constantly remind the kids they’re teammates and should look out for one another. And as cheesy as it sounds, it works.”
How can people find out more about the club?
“We’re on Facebook as ‘Forth Community Football Club.’ I admit I don’t post as often as I should though because life’s a bit hectic – what with work and a couple of kids 😂”
Gerry’s dedication to Forth Wanderers isn’t just about football; it’s about fostering a supportive, fun, and developmental environment for the kids in his community. With big dreams for the club’s future and a clear passion for the sport, Gerry continues to keep the game alive for the next generation. And everyone at Precise couldn’t be more proud of everything he does. Well done Gerry.