TROON FC have lodged an official complaint after ‘losing’ two of their development coaches to one of their rivals.
The junior club last week issued a strongly worded statement after youth team coaches Jamie McCulloch and Jon McTear departed for Irvine Meadow.
The seasiders claim that both coaches left for Medda ‘without consultation’.
Troon also allege that some players due to be signed up ahead of the new West of Scotland Football League (WoSFL) left for Irvine Meadow as a result.
Writing last week, chairman of the club, Jim Kirkwood, spoke of his bitter disappointment of the news and assured fans the club would lodge a strong protest in relation to their claims.
He said: “We are disappointed to have to announce that our head of youth, Jamie McCulloch and Jonny McTear, have departed Portland Park today.
“This has come out of the blue and despite careful planning, our successful application to join the Lowland Development League (West) and future plans, they have both, without consultation, decided to join Irvine Meadow.
“We do recognise that Jamie and Jonny have every right to pursue their ambitions, however, the team was not theirs to barter with.
“It is a sorry end to what was, in our opinion, a good relationship.
“I can only assure our fans that we have lodged a protest with the relevant body.”
Irvine Meadow then issued their own update: “We are pleased to announce the management team for our new U20s development squad who will compete in the new Lowland Development League.
“Head Coach Jamie McCulloch comes to us with playing experience at Oldham and Ipswich.
“Jamie brings with him a proven track record of player development and progression.
“Jamie will work closely with the first team staff and be assisted by his backroom team of Nick Coles, Scott Johnston and Jon McTear.”
Within the statement, McCulloch said: “We are delighted to be taking up this challenge at Irvine Meadow and look forward to working closely with Colin, James and David.
“From first discussions, management and the club committee have been open and clear on their ambitions and philosophies, which are totally in line with our own footballing values.
“We look forward to introducing these young players to the Medda fans and seeing them at our games on Friday nights to watch the lads develop towards the first team.”
The WoSL were approached for comment by Ayr Advertiser.
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