This season has been such a success because of the actions of thousands of people, so it is appropriate to send thanks and congratulations out to all of those who made promotion possible. On Friday, when the trophy is hoisted, all supporters should feel included in a warm celebratory embrace of the Saints family. The title resulted from the total combined effort of the club and the community.
First, let me thank our players. I could write an entire book about their heroics this season. They gave us so many glorious moments of pure joy. For now, it will have to suffice to say that their skill and dedication will never be forgotten in Perthshire!
Next, to our football staff: they have shown unique resilience this season, holding the lead from day one and surviving a few rough patches when some among us had doubts. Simo – our happy warrior – never wavered. He is a justifiably beloved figure at McDiarmid Park and in all of Perthshire. Simo’s dedicated staff have recruited, trained, coached, and game-planned with camaraderie and selflessness. And let me include a special shout out to Gus and Gemma without whom such a dynamic group of players could never have been assembled.
And to our supporters: your Dunfermline showing gave me goosebumps and many tears were shed when you roared your approval for the new champs. It was a fitting culmination to a season during which your support increased week after week, packing McDiarmid Park and away stands in impressive style. This club exists for you but we can only be successful if you put in the work too. You did it this season and we thank you.
To our staff: it has not been an easy season due to budget constraints in Championship. Your love of St Johnstone and your devotion to your co-workers has resulted in the herculean efforts that allowed us to outperform prior seasons while still controlling costs. We have the greatest group of dedicated employees in Scottish football.
To the board, our match day hosts, and all of our volunteers, I never cease to be amazed by your sacrifices for the club that you love. You know who you are, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Sadly, I will not be with you to raise the trophy tonight. I have a long-planned wedding in Florida that cannot be missed. I will, however, always treasure my time in Perth this week. It was complete bliss to see the happy faces of supporters all over town.
After the celebrations die down on Saturday, we get back to work. And we’ll need your help even more in the months ahead to survive the challenges of the Premiership. For those who can afford it, please be ready to purchase your season ticket in May. If possible, save some funds to purchase one or both of our beautiful new Puma shirts this summer. Visit the High Street Shop and Museum when you are in the city centre and make sure that visitors to Perth do so as well. And, most importantly, please be ready to go again when I will join you for our cup games and our return to the Scottish Premiership in August.
Enjoy the celebration and COME ON YOU SAINTS!
