The story on Chapman, Cook and Allan
When the ‘Gers travelled to Hampden Park on the 11th of August, youngsters Jack Cook, Jamie Chapman and Stuart Allan were all included in Robbie Horn’s squad: 12 years after the three players featured in the same squad together for the first time.
All from nearby Dunbar, the players began their careers together as members of Dunbar United Colts 1998’s team. The three players played together at Dunbar United Colts for several years, and also featured together in the Dunbar Grammar School team which competed in the 2013 British Isles Schools Cup Final in 2013.
Shortly after, the players went their separate ways, however fast forward five years and all have found themselves in the same squad again at Berwick. Stuart Allan, who has been a lifelong supporter of the club, joined Rangers’ Under 20s team in 2015 after being invited to training by coach Myles Allan. Whilst developing his skills with the ‘Gers, Allan has taken steps to progress through his SFA coaching licenses and is currently head coach of DUCFC under 14’s: the team he played for himself several years ago.
Jamie Chapman, who joined the Development Squad from Leith Athletic, has been a regular member of the clubs under 20s squad over the last two seasons. Still only 19, Chapman is now captain of the newly renamed Berwick Reserves as he continues his development. Chapman also earned himself international recognition in 2017, playing a number of games with Scotland’s Schoolboy team.
Jack Cook, who has established himself in the right back position of Robbie Horn’s squad this season, enjoyed spells at Hutchison Thistle, LTHV, Livingston and at college in America before being recruited by the Development team coaching staff in 2016. At just 20 years old, Cook looks set to have a promising career with the club.
Manager Robbie Horn has been impressed with progression of the three players, especially Jack Cook: “Stuart has been training with the first team since I joined the club. He’s a nice lad with a great attitude and a very decent goalkeeper. Chappie has been a consistent performer for the Reserves for a while now and he’s probably been unfortunate that we have been overloaded in midfield, although he’s shown he is capable of covering other positions. Cookie was excellent for the reserves last year. He bided his time but has taken his chances in the first team. The “Terminator” gives you everything he’s got in every game and is prepared to put his head where it hurts.”
