Hibernian FC managers on why football is fundamentally important in Scotland

Head coaches of a Scottish Premiership side’s men’s and women’s team have been speaking to UCFB about why football is a vital part of Scottish culture.

With the Scotland Men’s National Team qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and one of the most dramatic SPL title races in recent years, it’s a fantastic time to be a part of Scottish football.

UCFB and VSI Executive Education travelled to Hibernian FC, to chat to head coach of the men’s team, David Gray, and head coach of the women’s team, Joelle Murray, about the importance of football in Scotland.

David Gray has been in the Easter Road hot seat since 2024, having thrice previously been the club’s caretaker manager, and having played 177 games for Hibs.

As a player with Hibernian, he won the Scottish Championship in 2016-17, and famously scored the late winner against Rangers in the 2016 Scottish Cup Final, securing Hibs their first Scottish Cup in 114 years.

He spoke about why football is a quintessential part of life in Scotland, particularly now.

“I think it’s the passion that it comes from the fan base,” he said, “and the demands upon it.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to play in England, being part of football in England, and then coming home and I think until you’ve actually lived it, experienced it, it’s so passionate, the fan base.

“It’s what makes everybody’s weekend every single time, good or bad. And I think that’s something that really drives you on and it really hits home when you win and certainly when you lose, you feel it as well.

“So, I think it’s more I would say about the passion throughout the nation, to be honest.”

Head coach of Hibernian WFC, Joelle Murray, is a true one-club legend, playing more than 500 games for Hibs as a player. Recently, she was awarded a one-club woman award from Athletic Bilbao.

She also earned 48 Scotland caps across her career, and was named head coach of the women’s team in December 2025.

She added: “I would absolutely echo what David said.

“Football is ingrained in our culture up here in Scotland, and certainly the passion, in my opinion, is second to none. It can make or break your week.”

UCFB offers a wide range of undergraduate degree courses tailored to the sports industry, from fields such as sports media and science to sports business and coaching.

Furthermore, alongside VSI Executive Education, UCFB offers a number of executive education courses, including CEO of a Sports Organisation and MSc Sports Directorship.

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