In a significant move for Hibernian FC, head coach David Gray has expressed his enthusiasm for the club's plans to expand its training facilities, describing them as "fantastic." This development comes on the heels of an announcement from owner Ian Gordon, who confirmed that the Easter Road club has successfully secured a land swap. This new agreement will pave the way for the construction of a state-of-the-art indoor pitch and a dedicated hub for the first team.
With the women's team transitioning to full-time status and the academy also utilizing the current Hibernian Training Centre, Gordon emphasized the urgent need for more space and improved infrastructure. Gray, who has been at the helm since the Gordon family took ownership, believes this investment is a clear indication of their commitment to the club's growth and evolution.
"I think, as I've said many times, especially since the Gordon family came in, they've been incredibly supportive, financially, but also just where they want the club to go and always trying to evolve the club," Gray stated. He reflected on the club's journey since the Gordon family's involvement, highlighting the impressive progress in infrastructure and facilities. "When I think back to when they joined, when I joined, to where the club is now, as I've touched on a lot, the infrastructure, the stadium at the minute, you look at the stadium right now, it’s fantastic."
While praising the current training ground at Hibernian, which boasts five pitches, Gray acknowledged the challenges posed by the elements, particularly the wind at East Mains. He humorously noted, "I think I could have done with it this morning, it was a bit windy trying to do the tactics, that's for sure. I'm going to put that down to why I've got no hair!"
Gray's excitement about the new indoor facility is palpable. He explained that while the existing training ground is excellent, the new addition will allow players to practice tactics without the discomfort of adverse weather conditions. "This is a fantastic facility that we've got here already, but it's quite open. You do have to battle the elements at times, especially in the winter. So having that extra facility where you can go inside at times and still do all the tactical stuff without that battering down is fantastic," he said.
The head coach emphasized the importance of this development for young players coming through the ranks. The indoor facility will provide them with a dedicated space to train, free from the distractions of outdoor conditions. Gray remarked, "It's a fantastic thing to be able to have and I think it can only benefit, especially young players coming through, but also myself selfishly, that I don't have to scream and shout and battle the elements out on the pitch on the odd occasion as well, which is fantastic."
As Hibernian prepares to embark on this exciting new chapter, the focus remains on maintaining competitiveness on the pitch. Gray's commitment to ensuring the team remains a strong contender in the league is unwavering. "My job is to try and make sure I get the product on the pitch, competitive every single season, and we're in a good moment, a good place at the moment, but we need to keep moving forward and things like this, future planning and trying to take the club forward all the time can only be a positive thing," he concluded.
In summary, the planned expansion of Hibernian's training facilities marks a pivotal moment for the club. With the support of the Gordon family and the vision for enhanced infrastructure, Hibs aims to solidify its status as a leading force in Scottish football. As the club looks to the future, the new indoor pitch and training hub will undoubtedly play a crucial role in developing talent and achieving success on the field.
