Youth academy: Alistair Stevenson

St Johnstone Football Club can today announce that head of our youth academy, Alistair Stevenson, will be stepping down from his role at the end of June.

Alistair’s contribution to this football club has been immeasurable. His tireless work ethic and unwavering leadership has proven instrumental in shaping the careers of countless young footballing talents at McDiarmid Park.

In recognition of his outstanding commitment and success, the club is pleased to confirm that Alistair will be inducted into the St Johnstone Hall of Fame at a date to be confirmed later this year.

While Alistair has decided the time is right to take a step back as head of our youth academy, we gratefully accept his offer to stay involved on a part-time basis as club co-ordinator and liaison officer.

His association with our youth development structure stretches back to 1993 and, even within his first couple of years in the post, Alistair’s influence was clear to see.

In his early days, he assembled a talented group of players who would navigate all the way through to the 1994/1995 Scottish Youth Cup final at Hampden.

Alistair’s knack for scoping out ability was quickly evident and the likes of Danny Griffin, Stuart McCluskey, Keigan Parker and Kieran McAnespie would all rise through the ranks to star for the first team.

After continuing his successful career at Hibs, Alistair returned to Saints at the end of 2012 where he again fostered an environment of growth, discipline and ambition.

The club’s youth development set-up flourished further as players transitioned seamlessly into the senior squad. Notable examples included Zander Clark, Stevie May, Chris Kane, Ali McCann and Jason Kerr, among others.

In more recent years, Alistair - alongside dedicated coaches - has revelled in watching youth academy teams lift Club Academy Scotland league and cup silverware at various age groups.

His guidance has also helped numerous players achieve international recognition from U16 level through to U21 and catch the eye of English Premier League clubs.

Chairman Adam Webb stated: “Alistair is a legend at St Johnstone. We cannot hope to replace his eye for talent and his compassion for young players and their families, so we are very pleased that he will continue to help us with these roles on a part-time basis.”

CEO Francis Smith said: “The name Alistair Stevenson is synonymous with St Johnstone Football Club and he is a hugely respected figure across Scottish football.

“It was important that the club recognised just what he has done for us. Alistair will of course be a valuable sounding board moving forward and we thank him greatly.”

Head of football operations, scouting and recruitment, Gus MacPherson, said: “Alistair's skill and dedication are second to none. His devotion to our academy players and their families has contributed mightily to our success over many years.”

Alistair himself explained: “It is, of course, a hard decision to make but the main reason is so that I can spend more time with my family.

“I’ve had so many great colleagues and made so many great friends over the years. The support I have received has been huge.

“While I have been given credit for achievements in the academy, I could not have done it without the people who have worked and volunteered alongside me. I thank every single one of them.

“This is a great football club and that is why I am more than willing to continue to help out in whatever way I can.”

The club thanks Alistair for his sterling service and we look forward to celebrating his achievements at the Hall of Fame induction banquet later this year.