.jpg/250px-Civil_Service_Strollers_V_Stirling_Uni_15-4-17_(35).jpg){kind=small}
.jpg/2000px-Civil_Service_Strollers_V_Stirling_Uni_15-4-17_(35).jpg)
Community hub
0 subscribers8 pages, 0 posts
Recent from talks
All channels
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Contribute something
Welcome to the community hub built to collect knowledge and have discussions related to Civil Service Strollers F.C..
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Civil Service Strollers F.C.
View on Wikipediafrom Wikipedia
.jpg)
Key Information
Civil Service Strollers Football Club are a senior non-league football team from Edinburgh, Scotland currently playing in the Lowland League.[1] The Strollers play their home games at Christie Gillies Park. Their home strip colours are red, with white shorts and red socks. The team is currently managed by Gary Jardine.[2]
History
[edit]Founded in 1908 under the name Edinburgh Civil Service Football Club, their first ground was the Stenhouse Stadium, which later became a venue for greyhound racing, before moving to Pinkhill Stadium in the 1920s. They moved to the Edinburgh Area Civil Service Sports Association in Muirhouse in 1957, where they continue to play their home games, the ground is commonly known as Christie Gillies Park.
In 2000–01, the club entered into a partnership with Talloaks to develop youth football, with the Talloaks youth teams taking on the name 'CS Strollers'. At the start of the 2001–02 season, the partnership was extended to cover all other ages of organised football. 2001–02 saw the Strollers having, for the first time, a fully incorporated women's team.
Ahead of the 2016–17 season, they were elected to fill one of two vacancies in the Lowland Football League.
Their former management team was Alex Cunningham and Ricky Clapperton until Gary Jardine took over for the 2018–19 season.[3]
Ground
[edit].jpg)
Strollers play their home games at Christie Gillies Park, which is located just off Marine Drive in Muirhouse, Edinburgh. The ground has one small stand along the North side with the dugouts on the South side. The ground has a capacity of 1,596 with around 100 of that being seated. The pitch was once part of a large playing field but work was carried out in 2015 to provide cover for spectators and enclose the ground. Floodlights were added in 2019 to meet SFA licensing criteria.[4]
Current squad
[edit]- As of 11 September 2025[5]
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
|
|
On loan
[edit]Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
|
Season-by-season record
[edit]Lowland League
[edit]| Season | Division | Position | Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | GD | Points | Scottish Cup | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Service Strollers | ||||||||||||
| 2016–17 | Lowland League | 12th | 30 | 10 | 7 | 13 | -9 | 37 | First round replay, losing to Hawick Royal Albert | |||
| 2017–18 | Lowland League | 7th | 30 | 11 | 7 | 12 | +3 | 40 | Second round, losing to Brora Rangers | |||
| 2018–19 | Lowland League | 5th | 28 | 15 | 4 | 9 | +13 | 49 | Second round, losing to Edinburgh City | |||
| 2019–20 | Lowland League | 6th† | 23 | 12 | 3 | 8 | +2 | 39 | First round, losing to Buckie Thistle | |||
| 2020–21 | Lowland League | 11th† | 14 | 4 | 5 | 5 | -2 | 17 | First round, losing to Elgin City | |||
† Season curtailed due to coronavirus pandemic.
Honours
[edit]- East of Scotland Football League
- Winners (3): 1925–26, 1926–27, 1972–73
- Runners-up (4): 1927–28, 1980–81, 1988–89, 1989–90
- East of Scotland Football League First Division
- Winners: 1992–93
- Runners-up (3): 1996–97, 2002–03, 2008–09
- SFA South Region Challenge Cup
- Winners: 2017–18[6]
- East of Scotland Qualifying Cup
- Winners (4): 1921–22; 1929–30; 1979–80; 1988–89
- King Cup
- Winners (4): 1921–22; 1925–26; 1927–28; 1990–91
- East of Scotland Consolation Cup: 1920–21
- Scottish Amateur Cup: 1910–11; 1920–21
- East of Scotland League Cup: 2000–01
- East of Scotland Trophy: 2001–02
References
[edit]- ^ "Civil Service Strollers – Scottish Lowland League". Scottish Lowland League. Retrieved 18 September 2018.
- ^ "Strollers Appoint Gary Jardine as Manager". The Edinburgh Reporter. 23 May 2018. Retrieved 14 September 2018.
- ^ "Football | Edinburgh News".
- ^ "Non League Scotland". nonleaguescotland.org.uk. Retrieved 12 October 2018.
- ^ "Squad". Civil service strollers f.c. 15 May 2017. Retrieved 12 October 2018.
- ^ "Civil Service Strollers win the South Challenge Cup". North Edinburgh Community News. 21 May 2018. Retrieved 14 September 2018.
External links
[edit]Civil Service Strollers F.C.
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
History
Formation and early years
Civil Service Strollers Football Club was founded in 1908 as Civil Service Strollers Football Club by a group of local civil servants in Edinburgh as a breakaway from the reserve team of Edinburgh Civil Service FC, who established the team to provide recreational football opportunities within the governmental workforce. The name "Strollers" reflects the leisurely strolling habits of its civil servant members.[4][2] The club's initial home ground was Stenhouse Stadium, a multi-purpose venue shared with greyhound racing events, where the team played its early fixtures in local amateur competitions.[2] In its formative years, the club competed primarily in amateur leagues around Edinburgh, building a foundation through participation in regional tournaments. Early successes came in cup competitions, including victories in the Scottish Amateur Cup during the 1910–11 and 1920–21 seasons, as well as the East of Scotland Qualifying Cup and Consolation Cup in 1920–21.[2] By the mid-1920s, the team had relocated to Pinkhill Stadium and, having joined the newly formed East of Scotland Football League in 1923–24, achieved prominence by winning the league title in the 1925–26 and 1926–27 seasons.[2] Additional triumphs followed with King Cup wins in 1921–22, 1925–26, and 1927–28, marking the club's growing reputation in Scottish amateur football.[2] The club made its first appearances in the Scottish Cup between 1924–25 and 1930–31, advancing to the second round in the latter year.[2] Founding members and early captains, drawn from Edinburgh's administrative staff, played pivotal roles in establishing the club's amateur ethos, though specific individuals are not widely documented in historical records.[2]Development in regional leagues
In the mid-20th century, Civil Service Strollers F.C. consolidated its position within the East of Scotland Football League by securing a permanent home ground. After periods of homelessness in the 1930s and post-war years, including temporary grounds at The Inch and Gilmerton starting in 1947–48, the club relocated to the Edinburgh Area Civil Service Sports Association facility in Muirhouse in 1957, which is now known as Christie Gillies Park.[2] This move provided stability after earlier stints at Stenhouse Stadium and Pinkhill Stadium, enabling the club to focus on competitive development amid the post-war expansion of regional football.[2] The club's regional league trajectory featured sporadic successes, including their third East of Scotland League title in the 1972–73 season, a campaign marked by strong defensive play and contributions from players like Colin Arnot, who was part of the championship-winning squad.[2][5] Earlier titles in 1925–26 and 1926–27 had established a foundation of competitiveness, but the 1970s victory highlighted a resurgence in the Premier Division.[2] Runners-up finishes in 1980–81, 1988–89, and 1989–90 demonstrated consistent contention for promotion, though the league's structure often limited upward mobility without national pyramid integration.[2][6] Cup competitions offered additional highlights during this era, with King Cup triumphs in 1925–26 and later in 1990–91 underscoring the team's resilience in knockout formats.[2] Further cup triumphs included the East of Scotland League Cup in 2000–01. The 1990–91 win, in particular, came during a period of divisional flux, providing a morale boost.[2] Further success arrived with the SFA South Region Challenge Cup victory in 2017–18, the club's first in this tournament, achieved through a 4–2 extra-time defeat of Vale of Leithen in the semi-final before overcoming BSC Glasgow in the final.[2][7] Challenges persisted, notably financial difficulties in the 1980s that strained operations and contributed to inconsistent performances.[2] These issues coincided with relegation battles, including a drop to the First Division in 1991, followed by a prompt return as champions in 1992–93 on goal difference.[6] Subsequent near-misses for promotion in 1996–97, 2002–03, and 2008–09 reflected ongoing efforts to climb the regional ladder, setting the stage for eventual national entry.[2][6]Entry into national leagues
Civil Service Strollers were elected to the Lowland Football League for the 2016–17 season, filling one of two vacancies created by the relegation of Threave Rovers and the promotion of Edinburgh City to League Two.[8] In May 2018, the club appointed Gary Jardine as manager, replacing the previous team of Alex Cunningham and Ricky Clapperton.[9] Under Jardine's leadership, Strollers achieved consistent mid-table finishes, including 7th place in 2018–19 and 5th in 2022–23.[1] The 2019–20 Lowland League season was curtailed in April 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with Strollers finishing 6th based on points per game after 23 matches.[10] The following 2020–21 campaign was also suspended in January 2021 and ultimately abandoned, leaving the club in 11th position after limited fixtures.[11] To meet Scottish Football Association licensing requirements, floodlights were installed at Christie Gillies Park in October 2019, enabling evening matches and enhancing the club's infrastructure.[12] Strollers have shown progress in cup competitions, reaching the second round of the Scottish Cup in 2023–24 after defeating Camelon Juniors 2–1 in the first round, before a 0–3 loss to Stranraer.[13] The 2024–25 Lowland League season ended with an 8th-place finish after 34 matches.[14] In the ongoing 2025–26 season, as of November 2025, Strollers sit 13th in the table following 17 games, with a recent 1–4 home defeat to Cowdenbeath on 8 November highlighting early inconsistencies.[3][15]Club identity and facilities
Name, colours, and crest
Civil Service Strollers Football Club, often referred to by its nickname "Strollers," was formed in January 1909 as Civil Service Strollers, a breakaway from the reserve team of Edinburgh Civil Service FC.[2] The current official name reflects the club's evolution while maintaining its ties to Edinburgh's civil service community.[16] The club's traditional home kit features a navy shirt paired with navy shorts and socks, a design that has been consistent in recent seasons.[1] The away kit is predominantly red, consisting of a red shirt, red shorts, and red socks, providing a contrasting option for matches.[1] The club's crest, displayed on official kits and materials, incorporates elements symbolizing its heritage, though specific design updates have modernized its appearance for contemporary branding. Sponsorship plays a key role in the club's identity, with the current kit supplier being Appin Sports in partnership with TB Promotions since at least the 2024/25 season.[17][18] Main sponsors include local Edinburgh firms such as Mark Smith Glazing, Rhodar Services, Edinburgh Tiling, Castle Flooring, Quick Lube, LS Plastering, M Pact Group, J C Bathrooms, Midlothian Skip Hire, James Breck, Edinburgh Van Liners, Trinity Glazing, Pyramid Construction, and Boscolo Bathrooms, supporting the team's operations for the 2025/26 campaign.[19]Stadium and developments
Civil Service Strollers F.C. has occupied several grounds since its formation in 1909. The club's inaugural venue was Stenhouse Stadium, used from 1909 until the 1920s.[2] During the 1920s, the team relocated to Pinkhill Stadium.[2] In 1957, the club moved to its current home, Christie Gillies Park in the Muirhouse area of Edinburgh, which was previously known as the Edinburgh Area Civil Service Sports Association ground.[2][20] Christie Gillies Park, situated at 25 Marine Drive, Edinburgh EH4 5EJ, has a total capacity of 1,596, with around 100 covered seated places in a small stand on the north side and dugouts positioned on the south side.[21] The facilities include changing rooms, a club office, toilets, and options for hot and cold food and drink available both pitchside and in the clubhouse, where alcoholic beverages are also served.[21] The club does not have a dedicated training ground and instead utilizes local parks for sessions.[22] Significant infrastructural upgrades at Christie Gillies Park have enhanced its suitability for senior football. In 2015, the pitch area was enclosed and separated from the adjacent public playing field, with a spectator cover added to improve viewing conditions.[21] Floodlights were installed in 2019, enabling evening matches and meeting Scottish Football Association licensing standards for pyramid levels.[21][23] Home attendances at Christie Gillies Park remain modest, reflecting the club's non-league status, with typical league game crowds ranging from 100 to 300.[24] Figures can rise during cup fixtures, though the ground's record attendance stands at 3,000 for a match against Fraserburgh on 12 January 1929.[25]Management and squad
Current management team
The current head manager of Civil Service Strollers F.C. is Gary Jardine, who was appointed on 23 May 2018.[9] Under his leadership, the team has achieved consistent mid-table finishes in the Scottish Lowland Football League, including 8th place in the 2024–25 season, providing stability following earlier fluctuations.[26] Marc Laird serves as assistant manager and also plays as a central midfielder for the senior team, having been appointed to the coaching role to support Jardine in managerial duties.[27] The coaching staff includes Malcolm Fielding and Paul Donnely, who assist with player development and match preparation.[28] Additional support comes from club chaplain Martyn Reay, who provides spiritual guidance to players and staff.[28] The club operates as a volunteer-run organization governed by a committee structure, with no external ownership. Russell Pryde holds the position of club president, as confirmed during the 2024–25 player awards in April 2025.[29] Prior to Jardine's arrival, the Lowland League era from 2016 to 2018 saw managerial instability, highlighted by the tenure of Alex Cunningham as head manager from June 2015 until his departure in May 2018, during which he was supported by co-manager Ricky Clapperton.[30][31]Current playing squad
The current playing squad of Civil Service Strollers F.C. for the 2025–26 season comprises 21 senior players, blending experienced leaders with emerging talents, as of November 2025.[32] The team features two foreign players and maintains a semi-professional structure typical of Lowland League clubs, with most players balancing football commitments alongside other employment.[33]Goalkeepers
- Adam Meek, 22, Scotland (on loan from The Spartans F.C.)
- Josh Scoon, 23, Scotland
Defenders
- Matthew Shaw, 25, centre-back, Scotland (previously with Edinburgh City youth academy)[34][35]
- Chrissy McGinn, 20, left-back, Scotland (recent addition from Clyde F.C.)[36]
- Callum Yeats, 24, left-back, Scotland
- Ross Clarke, 29, left-back, Scotland (retained for 2025–26; experienced in regional leagues)[37]
- Ross Pollock, 22, right-back, Scotland (permanent signing from previous club in July 2025)[38]
- Josh McCulloch, 21, right-back, Scotland
Midfielders
- Marc Laird, 39, central midfield, Scotland (club captain and assistant manager; extensive career including spells at Manchester City academy, Southend United, and Edinburgh City)[39]
- Sam Coats, 21, central midfield, Scotland
- Ryan Currie, 28, right midfield, Scotland
- Duncan Proudfoot, 20, right midfield, Scotland
- Euan Valentine, 25, left midfield, Scotland (retained for 2025–26; prior clubs include Raith Rovers, Berwick Rangers, and Cowdenbeath)[40][37]
- Ryan Duncan, 20, attacking midfield, Scotland (joined from Stenhousemuir F.C. in August 2025)[41]
- Alfie Smith, 19, attacking midfield, Scotland
Forwards
- Josh Currie, 22, right winger, Scotland (free agent signing)
- Tom Findlay, 21, right winger, Scotland
- Jamie Penker, 25, second striker, Scotland (permanent signing in July 2025; brings versatility from prior Lowland League experience)[38]
- Alieu Faye, 34, centre-forward, Gambia/France (retained for 2025–26; international background and physical presence as a target man)[42][37]
- Tuacenio dos Santos, 20, striker, Angola
- Jay Mill, 18, striker, Scotland (youth prospect with short-term contract to May 2026)
Records and achievements
Season-by-season record
Prior to joining the Lowland League in 2016, Civil Service Strollers competed in the East of Scotland Football League system, where they achieved notable success including three Premier Division titles in 1925–26, 1926–27, and 1972–73, as well as a First Division championship in 1992–93. The club also recorded multiple runner-up finishes in both divisions, such as in the Premier Division during 1980–81, 1988–89, and 1989–90, and in the First Division in 1996–97, 2002–03, and 2008–09, reflecting consistent competitiveness in regional football before their promotion to national leagues.[2] The following table summarizes the club's performance in the Scottish Lowland Football League from the 2016–17 season to 2024–25, including league position, matches played, wins, draws, losses, goals for and against, goal difference, and points. Brief notes on key cup participations are included where significant.| Season | Position | Played | Wins | Draws | Losses | GF | GA | GD | Points | Notes on Cups |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016–17 | 12th | 30 | 10 | 7 | 13 | 59 | 68 | -9 | 37 | Scottish Cup: 1st round exit to East Fife (0–3); League Cup: Group stage.[43] |
| 2017–18 | 10th | 30 | 12 | 6 | 12 | 50 | 52 | -2 | 42 | Scottish Cup: 2nd round exit to Formartine United (1–3); League Cup: Group stage. |
| 2018–19 | 9th | 26 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 41 | 45 | -4 | 34 | Scottish Cup: 1st round exit to Brora Rangers (0–3); League Cup: Group stage. |
| 2019–20 | 10th | 24 | 8 | 6 | 10 | 39 | 51 | -12 | 30 | Season curtailed due to COVID-19; Scottish Cup: Not played; League Cup: Group stage. |
| 2020–21 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | Season curtailed due to COVID-19; No competitive matches; Scottish Cup and League Cup cancelled. |
| 2021–22 | 10th | 34 | 13 | 7 | 14 | 50 | 53 | -3 | 46 | Scottish Cup: 2nd round exit to Buckie Thistle (1–2); League Cup: Group stage. |
| 2022–23 | 8th | 36 | 16 | 10 | 10 | 63 | 45 | 18 | 58 | Scottish Cup: 3rd round exit to Queen of the South (0–2); League Cup: Group stage. |
| 2023–24 | 7th | 34 | 17 | 5 | 12 | 51 | 48 | 3 | 56 | Scottish Cup: 2nd round exit to Brechin City (1–2); League Cup: Group stage. |
| 2024–25 | 8th | 34 | 13 | 8 | 13 | 57 | 61 | -4 | 47 | Scottish Cup: 2nd round exit to Formartine United (2–4); League Cup: Group stage.[44] |