Highland league side loses staunch defender

One of the great stalwarts of Highland League club Clachnacuddin has died at the age of 76.

Dougie Rodgers was one of the most respected figures throughout north football and served in a wide variety of roles, both on and off the pitch.

His family connection with the Inverness organisation lasted for more than 80 years – his father, George, starred for English giants Chelsea prior to joining the Clach ranks in the 1930s.

And last night, the late player’s nephew, Alex Chisholm – the club’s current chairman – highlighted the immense contribution which his uncle had offered the Grant Street Park organisation.

He said: “Dougie, just like the rest of the family, was totally committed and passionate about Clachnacuddin FC and, through the good times and more challenging times, he remained loyal to the football club.

“Dougie was an electrician to trade working in Inverness and he played as a defender for the club in the 1960s and was one of the most committed and popular players in the team of that period. He always gave his all whenever he walked on to the pitch.

“After his playing days, he became a committee member, a director and ultimately, following in the footsteps of his father, George, he became chairman during our centenary year in 1986, a role he performed with distinction.

“Dougie was a man with a great sense of humour and he regularly shared his many stories in the Royal British Legion where he was a member for a number of years.”

The redoubtable defender was also “instrumental” in the building of the Clach Social Club, which was one of the busiest venues in Inverness with events every night of the week.

Mr Chisholm added: “I can honestly say that the Clach family has lost one of life's real characters.”

Mr Rodgers is survived by his wife, Elma, and his son, Douglas. His daughter, Julie, pre-deceased him some years ago.

His funeral will be held at Inverness Crematorium at 10am on Monday, May 29, for family and close friends.

Dougie Rodgers was respected throughout Highland football