Celtic fans have come to know that Gavin Strachan is a constant presence in the dugout, manning the laptop during matches.
But what many might not know is that before fully committing to coaching, Strachan had another career path in mind: sports journalism.
As his playing days began to wind down, Strachan took the proactive step of enrolling in a degree in Professional Sports Writing and Broadcasting at Staffordshire University, a course run by former Sheffield Wednesday man Lawrie Madden.
He wasn’t just ticking boxes either. Strachan threw himself into it and even penned a regular blog for BBC News during the 2008–09 season, sharing his insights as a current pro navigating life in the lower leagues. It actually makes quite an interesting read.
At the time, he had his sights set on a media career. He’s since reflected that he “enjoyed” his journalism studies and had hoped it would lead to full-time work. But, as he told The Scotsman, the opportunities weren’t as plentiful as he’d expected.
That reality check prompted a pivot, one that’s worked out well. He moved into coaching, beginning at youth level, before progressing through the ranks and eventually joining Neil Lennon’s staff at Celtic in 2020. Strachan has remained part of the setup under Ange Postecoglou and now Brendan Rodgers, building a solid coaching reputation.
It’s a fascinating and lesser-known detail about one of Celtic’s key backroom figures.
