Community football leader Michael Cotter drives inclusive pathway at Glasgow On The Ball AFC

A passion for football and a commitment to community opportunity are at the heart of Michael’s journey with Glasgow On The Ball AFC, where he now serves as Club Director of the club’s inclusive “On the Ball FC” programme.

Michael, who qualified from the University of Strathclyde in 2021, works professionally as an accountant. But away from spreadsheets and calculators, he swaps his office tools for a tactics board and football boots as he leads one of the club’s longest-standing teams.

His involvement with the club began in 2019 when he joined as a teenage player at Glasgow On The Ball AFC. Over the years, his dedication both on and off the pitch saw him rise through the ranks. By 2022, Michael had become club captain, demonstrating leadership and commitment to the squad and its wider community. In October 2023, he took on an even greater role, stepping up to manage the club’s first team.

Today, Michael also oversees the club’s On the Ball FC programme, an initiative designed to provide an open and inclusive pathway into football for people of all ages and backgrounds. The programme aims to ensure that anyone with an interest in the sport can access opportunities to play, develop, and be part of a supportive football community.

Michael’s passion for sport extends beyond competition. He believes football can act as a powerful tool for social mobility, helping individuals build confidence, develop skills, and connect with others. That belief made the club an ideal environment for him to grow as both a player and leader.

The programme operates with support from The Fair Play Foundation, an organisation focused on using sport to create positive social change and opportunities within communities. Through consistent training, community engagement, and an open-door approach, Michael and the wider club aim to continue expanding opportunities for players across Glasgow and beyond.