Community: Kilmarnock FC

With the assistance of SCORE, a non-sectarian UK Sports Chaplaincy agency, Kilmarnock Football Club appointed Rev Neil Urquhart as their Chaplain in 2004. In England many clubs like Liverpool, Watford and Man Utd have active chaplains in their ranks. Slowly in Scotland more clubs are seeing the value of having someone around who is neutral (unpaid) and skilled in pastoral care.

Neil aims to support and encourage Killie staff in their daily lives, whether a star player, office worker or cleaner. They can talk to him in confidence about any trials, crises or issues they face, sure that it goes no further. Neil drops in on training weekly and periodically pops in to see the office staff. At home games he turns up an hour before kick-off to blether with folk and encourage the players and backroom staff before and after games. Basically he's all about helping people be the very best they can be.

Neil's involvement with KFC is a natural extension of his care for people and love of football. Neil says: "When Jesus walked this earth he spent a lot of time with unreligious people. What better example and inspiration? I love rubbing shoulders with people in everyday life." Fullarton Church give Neil their full backing and the support he needs to fulfil this roving role.

"It's all about having a laugh, being an encouragement and gaining trust so that people feel able to approach you in times of need. A thick skin and soft heart are what you need for this business." Jim Jefferies calls Neil "Charlie" Chaplin from time to time but most of the lads call him Neil or Neily Boy. It can be a serious job being Chaplain to a Premier League Club, but one of Neily's favourite sayings is: "Blessed are those who can laugh at themselves for they will always have plenty material!"