15/06/2026
After 36 seasons managing in Scottish senior and junior football George Shields has officially announced his retirement from football management.
Managing over more than 2,000 matches across an outstanding career George has dedicated decades of his life to the game, earning huge respect from players, supporters, committee members and fellow managers throughout Scottish football.
From the highs of managing Montrose FC & coaching Brechin City FC in the SPFL and also winning numerous league titles most notably the invincible season of 2018-19 with Lochee United FC and many cup successes to the lows of seeing his beloved Dundee St Joseph’s FC team who he had 3 spells with spanning over 10 years as a player, coach & manager go into abeyance, George has spent countless decades developing players for numerous clubs and also supporting clubs behind the scenes, his commitment, passion and strong leadership have left a lasting mark on the game at every level.
His influence stretched far beyond the touch line, helping shape dressing rooms and generations of footballers who now have stepped into coaching and managing roles none more so than the 4 coaches that are taking over from him here at Tayport FC, Ross Lunan, Andy Ballantine, Paul Lunan, and Jamie Kelly who have all played under George’s leadership at one point in their football careers some of them for 2 or 3 clubs.
Reaching the milestone of over 2,000 games managed is truly an incredible achievement and one that reflects a lifetime devoted to the sport which could not have possibly be done without the support of his family and all the coaching staff that he worked with over his 36-year spell.
As he steps away from management, everyone involved in senior and junior football would wish George a long, healthy and happy retirement, with thanks for his exceptional service to Scottish football.
“A true football legend whose dedication to the game has spanned generations”
