Former Dundee and Dundee United goalkeeper Tony Bullock is stepping away from football after 30 years in the game.
The 50-year-old has left his role as goalkeeping coach at League One Montrose to focus on his family and work commitments.
Bullock works nightshifts at his job in child social care, with football becoming an increasingly challenging part of his life.
He joined the coaching staff at Links Park side in 2019, joining up once more with boss Stewart Petrie.
‘Tough decision’ to quit football
However, juggling his job with football commitments and his young family has become too much, leading to the tough choice to step back from the beautiful game.
“I work permanent nightshifts and there would be days where I wouldn’t get to bed,” Bullock explained to Courier Sport.
TONY DEPARTS LINKS PARK
Montrose FC Goalkeeping Coach, Tony Bullock has informed the Club of his decision to step away from football for the foreseeable future, due to work commitments.
Pic by Phoenix Photography pic.twitter.com/m9Lpu1sZzg
— Montrose FC (@MontroseFC) July 5, 2022
“It was really difficult and impacting on me personally and my family life. We have three small girls and they need to be dropped off and picked up at school.
“Trying to fit that in between football and working nights just became too much.
“On a Saturday, I wouldn’t get to bed at half past eight in the morning and have to be up an hour later to travel up and down the country.
“Unfortunately, something had to give and it was a decision I haven’t taken lightly but it was one I had to make.
“I’ve never given less than 100% and that’s what makes this decision even harder because I feel I couldn’t give 100% to Montrose and that’s not fair on them.
“I’ve had a fantastic career, which I’m very proud of but now it’s time to put my family and work first.”
Praise from Petrie
Bullock began his career back in 1992 with local side Northwich Victoria before featuring for a number of clubs north and south of the border.
He played at with Dundee United from 2003 to 2005 featuring more than 30 times before returning to the area with the Gable Endies in 2009.
That same year he moved to Dundee for a season. Bullock also spent a short with Arbroath in a player-coach role.
Mo boss Stewart Petrie thanked Bullock for his commitment to the club.
“It has been a pleasure working with Tony over the last three years,” he said.
“As well as bringing extensive knowledge and experience to the coaching team, he was always a great professional, with an infectious personality, and we will all miss him greatly.
“As someone I have known for many years, I would just like to say a huge, personal thanks to Tony, for all his efforts and commitment over what has been three very successful campaigns for the club.
“We all wish him the very best of luck for the future.”
Montrose are now actively seeking applications for the vacant role of first team goalkeeping coach, which should be sent to office@montrosefc.co.uk.
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