Today we have a quick look at the four GCFA clubs recently promoted to the GCFA Premier League — recognising the hard work and commitment behind their success as they step up to the next level.
As Premier League clubs continue their preparations for the start of the 2025/26 season, We runs the rule over the promoted clubs and highlights the players who could have a big impact in the new season.
CLYDEBANK RED STAR
Toryglen Thistle are going into the Premier League at the second time of asking after joining the GCFA in season 2023/24
Clydebank Red Star had a heated battle with Busby, Rosebank United and Southside United to get themselves into that coveted play off spot and they were helped with some spectacular end of season form.
The mastermind behind this success was head coach Scott Pollock, the gaffer made sure he found a style that would suit his players and he has consistently improved the team throughout his tenure at the club.
The Red Star Gaffer himself recently got married so congratulations must go out to him and his new bride Emma.
While making the jump from the Championship to the elite is rarely easy, Pollock will leave no stone unturned as he bids to make the 2025/26 season a successful one for his club.
Red Star could not have been handed a tougher opening schedule, The club face some tough match ups including a home game against reigning Premier League champions Corinthians and a trip to face Premier League Cup Winners Rutherglen Glencairn AFC
Key players
Gary Whyte (ATT)
The prolific striker joined Clydebank Red Star after the 2024/25 season was in full flow
Gary got the goal scoring burden off his back against Busby when he scored his first Red Star hattrick..
His first goal is a goal of the season contender. A lovely ball into the box by Lewis James was met by Whyte who scored an overhead kick.
His second was a lovely header from a McDougall cross and his third a lob from around 20 yards to complete the hattrick.
His manager Scott Pollock said: Gary has been an excellent addition to the Red Star squad this season. After losing our top goalscorer from last season, we were on the hunt for goals and Gary has brought them.
He is one of, if not the most committed player we have ever had at Red Star. He is a pleasure to work with and brings real experience to the squad.
Whyte has 24 goals and 8 assists in 29 appearances so far this season and will be hoping to hit the 30 goal mark before the season ends.
Ross Gallacher (GK)
The shot stopper has been a massive part of the Clydebank Red Star fairy tale. The shot stopper is a player for the big occasion and regularly made top saves when it really counted during last season’s promotion campaign.
Playing for a team like Clydebank Red Star can be challenging at times as he will not be called upon to make nine or ten saves per game but he has to be on full concentration to make the vital saves when the moments appear and this is the sign of a top keeper.
The high quality keeper proved last season that he could be one of the best keepers within the whole GCFA set up never mind just the Boca Championship.
Footy Focus season 25/26 
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