James Coutts heads South

James Coutts the player, in action recently against Sunshine Coast Fire (photo Craig Clifford / @sportspics)

 

 

 

 

With much regret the Club announces the departure of James Coutts who leaves United to pursue an awesome opportunity in Victoria.

The gifted player, leader and coach will immediately take the reins of the Men’s squad at the North Geelong Warriors who play in the Victoria National Premiers Leagues 2. Coutts will also strap on the boots for his new Club, in a similar role to what he held previously at Murray United, Men’s Coach and Player. James will also Head North Geelong’s Community program, a role he fulfilled at Gold Coast.

 

For Couttsy the opportunity was too good to pass up.

“I have my own ambitions to be a professional coach and feel this move was too good an opportunity to turn down and will help me on that journey.

 

“I’m certainly going to miss the club (United).

“I’ve been fortunate to work and play with some great people both within the seniors and the Academy and in the community.

 

“I have no doubt with the players Laney has brought in that the Senior Men will be successful. I must thank Laney and his staff for their advice and support with this move.

 

“The U16 boys have shown a great attitude and I will miss coaching them and wish them all the best. I’m sorry I can’t see the season out with you guys.

James Coutts the Coach, with Akwor (U16’s) in last Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Brisbane Roar Youth.

 

“And the Community foundations I believe are laid for a bright future. The coaches on the ground are the reason for this and I must thank them for their professionalism and dedication to ensuring all programs are run to the highest level.

 

“I wish the club all the best in its bid for A-League and I would love nothing more than to see a Gold Coast United side competing there very soon with some of the local home grown players at the club. I wish everyone all the best for the future.” Couttsy

 

 

The Club thanks James for his invaluable contribution on and off the park. The enthusiasm, dedication and professionalism he brought to his playing, coaching and Community roles have been exemplary and have set the bar at a high level for those that follow.

 

Fortunately the Club is blessed with an array of exceptional multi-talented coaches who can fill the void left by Coutts’ departure. Men’s Head Coach Sean Lane will step straight in to lead the U16 NPL Boys forward. On the Community and Partner Schools front, Football Operations Officer Rick Coghlan and newly appointed Head of the NPL Academy Talent Centre, Jamie Dixon, will continue the fantastic work that James was doing in this area.

 

All the best James, good luck on your football journey. You will be missed. We’ll all be following your progress at the Warriors with much interest.