Walker: Joining Berwick was an easy decision
It’s been a busy few days after catching up with Michael McKenna and Steven Notman, but we’re pleased to bring you another scoop after talking with new addition Kevin Walker.
Walker joined alongside McKenna last week, and was quick to reveal that it is his intention to make the number one jersey his own this season.
“The opportunity to play first team football was a huge reason as to why I wanted to join Berwick. I’ll obviously need to prove myself during pre-season, but I believe I’ll get that opportunity. It’s been a frustrating season at Livingston with Darren (Jamieson) ahead of me in the pecking order, so it felt like a good time to take on a new challenge.
“I met with Colin (Cameron) a couple of times prior to signing. He’s made me fully aware what he wants from both myself individually, and the team as a whole in the coming season – and I was impressed with what he had to say.
“That made the decision an easy one. I feel I can bring a lot to Berwick. I’m already looking forward to getting started and hopefully playing a part in helping the team achieve promotion. It’d be nice to do well in the cups too, but the focus will be on doing well in pre-season and making sure we’re ready for league action.”
Leaving full-time football could be seen as a sacrifice, but the stopper is no stranger to making tough decisions for the benefit of his career, citing his Stirling University departure as a prime example.
“I left the football scholarship programme at Stirling University to go full-time with Livingston. Thankfully I was still able to finish my final year of studies while playing, and eventually graduated with an honours degree so I was delighted with that. I’m very grateful to Livi for allowing me the flexibility to finish my degree.
Walker (far left) during his time as Stirling University’s number one
“I was actually chosen to represent Great Britain Universities in the World University Games in Russia during 2013, but the tournament was played over June and July, so I opted to repay Livingston by pulling out of the squad. A year later I was still eligible to play for the team though, and appeared in a Friendly against France which was a fantastic experience.”
With Kevin seemingly getting decisions for the good of his career spot on so far, he expands: “I do feel I can make the step up to full-time football again in the future. But for my development, I have to be playing games. I know what I have to do to make that happen. Joining Berwick is a start. Now it’s about impressing the boss in pre-season.
Walker is looking forward to a regular run of games
“If I can establish myself as the number one then I can hopefully show what I am capable of and give confident and consistent performances. I genuinely feel Berwick is the perfect club for me at this moment in my career.
Despite the change in club, the former Stirling University man’s routine may not change too much, after revealing that he’d travel to training with fellow newcomer McKenna on a daily basis.
“I know Mikey well, but I had no idea he was signing. We’ve been in the car together every day for the past year but hadn’t spoken to each other for a few weeks at the end of the season.
“It was great to see he’d also signed for the club. He’ll be an excellent signing for Berwick and is a great guy to have around the changing rooms.
“I also know a couple of lads who were in the team last season. I’m looking forward to meeting the squad. I’m sure we’ll hit it off quick and form a bond that will hopefully stand us in good stead for a promotion push.
