May 15th 2024
Everyone at Nairn County has been saddened to learn of the passing of Stephen “Patter” Grant.
Stephen spent a lifetime involved in football in Nairn and fulfilled a number of roles at the club.
He was most recently on the backroom team at Nairn St Ninian having been involved at Station Park for many years up until last summer.
During his time at Nairn County, Stephen served as a youth team coach and first aider for the First Team.
Director of Football, Graeme Macleod, commented: “Patter was an unsung hero. He would do anything for you or to help the management team and the players.
“Patter would take care of all the jobs on a matchday which are often overlooked but are crucial to allowing the team to function, taking the pressure off the manager and coaches to allow them to focus on the game.
“A lot of young players in Nairn also owe Patter a debt for his own commitment to coaching, allowing them the platform to play football through the club’s youth development programme. He would coach the youth team, drive the minibus to away games, set the kit out and take care of first aid duties all in the same day, never taking a penny in return for all of his time and efforts down the years.
“He helped out with our Reserves Team last season and mirrored the career of his son, Nathan, who I know he was proud to see represent both of the senior teams in the town.
“Patter loved being in the company of the players and always made the effort to get to know people and make new arrivals feel welcome. He enjoyed telling stories of his experiences, which always helped speed up long bus journeys to away matches.
“Without guys like Patter, grassroots football does not function. His contribution to football in Nairn down the years was immense. He will be missed.”
We all send our condolences to Stephen’s family at this time.
