Schoolmates go head to head in Club Academy Performance League

Fifth year student Cammy, from North Connel, has been at Caley Thistle for seven months and has been passionate about football for as long as he can remember. He added: “It’s the thing I love doing and your thoughts just leave you when you’re playing.”

Cammy, who plays as a striker or winger, played for Lochnell FC and then Stirling Albion Youth Academy. He moved to Caley Thistle’s Academy last April and signed with them following a trial period. 

For Cammy and James, being part of a professional club has been a thrilling experience so far. Cammy explained: “It’s an amazing achievement and it feels like you’re living the dream.”

Both boys want careers as professional footballers and seeing other players from their academies rise up the ranks and even go on to play for Scotland internationally has been a great inspiration. 

James said: “There has been a lot of talent that has come up from St Johnstone over the years and players my age are doing really well. One of my teammates is now down at Fulham playing in the Premier League so it just shows anything is possible.”

Scotland player Ryan Christie is one of Caley Thistle’s greatest success stories. Cammy said: “Ryan just shows anyone can do it and the sky is the limit.”

The boys are excited for the rest of the season ahead and while Cammy, who has another year left as part of the U18 team, is focusing on enjoying it and having fun, James, who is one year older, has his eyes set on the prize. He said: “I want to win a trophy and either get signed pro at the end of the season or get a move down south.”

Cammy and James would like to thank all of their previous coaches for helping them on their football journey so far and their Dads, Donald McAllister and Jim Muir, who trained them throughout their youth.

With the days growing colder and games now winding down, the boys are getting ready to put their footballers’ diets aside and treat themselves to a hearty Christmas dinner.