Father-Son Duo Takes the Helm at Street FC

Craig Laird and his son Scott are co-managers of the non-league football club, Street FC.

Football history is filled with instances of fathers and sons sharing the same jerseys for various clubs or sons playing under their fathers in professional settings. However, the rarity of father-son duos managing a team together sets Craig and Scott Laird apart.

Recently appointed as co-managers of the Western League Premier Division team following the departure of former manager Ben Watson, Craig expressed his excitement about their new roles. “For Scott and I to be able to do this is fantastic, it’s a dream come true,” he shared with BBC Radio Somerset. “Not many fathers get the opportunity to work with their sons in any profession, let alone in football, so it’s truly special. I couldn’t be prouder.”

Scott, a former left-back for Preston and Stevenage, has dedicated the past 18 months to the club as a player and assistant under Watson. When the managerial vacancy arose, Scott instinctively turned to his father. “We wanted someone who believed in our vision, understood our style of play, and shared our philosophy. My dad was the perfect choice,” noted Scott, 37. “And it’s quite charming to have him by my side on the sidelines.”

Football is deeply rooted in the Laird family. Craig began his career at Plymouth Argyle and has managed several non-league clubs, including Weston-super-Mare and Bridgwater Town. Scott had a distinguished career in the EFL, particularly with Preston, where he celebrated a promotion to the Championship in 2015. His brothers, Callum and Jamie, also have experience at the non-league level, while another brother, also named Craig, played at the university level in the United States.

Though they are in the early stages of their managerial journey—recording one win, one draw, and one loss in their first three league matches—Craig and Scott are operating in harmony. “While disagreements are inevitable, we currently share a similar perspective on the game,” Scott remarked. “We are aligned in our player recruitment efforts, which has been beneficial. I anticipate some challenges ahead, but that’s part of the process.”

For Craig, this role signifies a chance to learn from his son in a role reversal. “Growing up, Scott absorbed my views on the game, which I believe influenced him. He has gained valuable experiences that I can now learn from as well,” Craig reflected.

Scott holds sentimental value in embarking on his coaching career alongside his father. “He was there at the beginning of my career, and now he’s here as I transition from my playing days to coaching. It’s a meaningful full-circle moment,” Scott remarked. “He has imparted all the football knowledge that I possess.”