Young Daniel re-signs for Hibs

Jul 3 2009 by Caroline Boxer, Strathearn Herald

Young Daniel re-signs for Hibs

AN 11-year old from St Fillans has signed for the second year in a row with Scottish Premier League side Hibernian.

Daniel Jardine, who has just finished P7 at St Dominic’s Primary in Crieff, will play for the under 12s team.

His dad, Craig, explained that Daniel had chosen Hibernian, after having interest in the past from Celtic, Rangers and Hearts, “due to the fact they have the most successful Youth Development set-up in Scotland after the U19s won the Scottish League and Scottish Cup this season.

“Hibernian also has fantastic training facilities in Tranent, East Lothian along with an infrastructure within the club geared towards Youth Development second to none.”

Daniel was four when he started his football career with Edinburgh side Hutchison Vale where he played until he was nine. He then trained with Hearts for a year before moving to Hibs.

Craig said: “Scottish football is a small world, Daniel’s first ever coach at Hutchison Vale was Paul McGovern, an ex Hibs player himself, and he is now his coach at Hibernian U12s. Paul has brought together a talented team of players who travel from Glasgow, Berwick, Livingston and of course Perthshire.

“The Old Firm have tried to sign many of these players but Hibs have the ability to attract and keep the best as shown in their League and Cup successes this year. “Daniel is really looking forward to this season ahead and has been playing central midfield with attacking abilities, where he likes to take on players.

“On a personal note my wife Fiona and I are very proud of Daniel’s dedication, fitness and love of the game.”

Their commitment is also apparent when you consider that the journey from St Fillans to the training ground on a Monday, Thursday and Saturday totals 550 miles per week and can increase with journeys to Kilmarnock, Inverness and Aberdeen!

However, constant travelling doesn’t stop Daniel and his dad enjoying the beautiful game in their leisure time, as they are both Hibernian season ticket holders.

His dad recalled: “During his time with Hearts, Daniel played for one minute against his beloved Hibs before a thunder and lightning storm abandoned the game!” Perhaps this was divine intervention?

And to add to the football frenzy Daniel and his Hibs colleague Aaron Singh, are off to Juventus this month to take part in a pre-season training camp.