Dave Young

Date of Birth: 01/02/62
Birthplace: Edinburgh
Height: 6'3"
Position: Centre Half
Previous Clubs: Celtic, Arbroath
Signed: 1984

Dave started his football with North Merchiston Boys Club in Edinburgh and it was from there that he went senior with Glasgow Celtic in 1978.  John Clark was principally responsible for getting the 16 year old to sign for the Parkhead side but after less that two years Dave took the chance of a move to Arbroath where he would have a chance of regular first team football.

For four seasons he got his wish and made a total of 141 appearances for the Red Lichties before a change of manager and different training arrangements, which involved more travelling, resulted in a free transfer as the Gayfield side started to build a team using local players.

It was 1984 that Dave came to East End and for two seasons he only missed one game - ironically the match at Stenhousemuir when the Second Division title was clinched.

With Grant Reid, who had been signed prior to the 1986-87 season, starting the First Division campaign in the centre-half position.  Dave's future at East End Park appeared to be in doubt.  However when an injury caused Grant to drop out of the team, Dave grabbed his chance.The extra work he had put in whilst out of the team showed up with improved performances.  The East End fans were quick to appreciate Dave's contribution.

Dave, who credits Frank Connor (whilst he was at Parkhead) and Jim Leishman as being the biggest influences on his career, scored the first goal ever for Dunfermline in the Premier League on 8th August 1987.  That was in the 20th minute against Hibs in a 3-3 draw.  Stuart Beedie had fired in Dunfermline's second before Dave headed in his second goal six minutes from time.