We are deeply saddened and still in a state of shock that our friend, and goalkeeping coach John Ritchie sadly passed away on Friday.
JR was a legendary Goalkeeping Coach, and a former professional player who played for Cowdenbeath, Brechin City and Bradford City before also managing Brechin City from 1987 to 1993 where he won the Scottish Division Two Title in 1989-1990.
After his career in management John took up coaching and enjoyed spells with Hibernian, Dunfermline Athletic, Brechin City and Forfar Athletic as well as Thornton Hibs FC and Spartans FC Women along with his own coaching school, JR-Coaching.
John moved to Gayfield from Spartans FC Women in July 2016 to reunite with Dick and Ian Campbell and John Young.
Their friendship goes back almost 40 years and John was a welcome addition to Gayfield.
In his first season he mentored Robbie Mutch and Ricky Gomes as we successfully won the Ladbrokes League 2 trophy, and then this season again with Ricky, David Hutton and Robert Douglas.
John still was involved with other clubs and helped the SPFL deliver the Modern Apprenticeship Programme in Sporting Excellence to young players.
An eye for the game, not only was JR our goalkeeping coach but he would take in everything from the dugout passing on his insight to Dick and Ian helping make key decisions.
Chairman Mike Caird said “ John was an absolute gentleman and you couldn’t help but smile or laugh when in his company. No matter the situation, he would always find time for you and was as caring as he was kind. His dedication and knowledge of the game was a great help to Dick, Ian and John and he will be sadly missed by everyone connected with the club.”
We know that John has played a huge part in the career’s of so many players and influenced so many teams and we were very proud that he became part of the Arbroath Family.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to John’s Family at this very difficult time.
We will all miss you JR.
Rest in Peace.
