Michael Paton joins as assistant manager as the Braves begin an exciting new chapter with renewed energy and ambition
Caledonian Braves FC is delighted to confirm the appointment of Jamie McNee as the club’s new manager, with Michael Paton joining the coaching staff as assistant manager. Cole Starrs will continue in his role as coach, providing important continuityas the club enters an exciting new chapter.
The new Caledonian Braves coaching team: Michael Paton, Jamie McNee and Cole Starrs at Alliance Park.
McNee joins the Braves after three seasons with Peterhead, where he progressed from first-team coach to assistant manager and built a strong reputation as a highly regarded young coach. His experience in the SPFL environment and his work on the training pitch have marked him out as an ambitious, forward-thinking manager ready to lead his own team.
Paton arrives from Albion Rovers, where he combined playing and coaching responsibilities, and brings with him an impressive career in Scottish football that includes spells with Aberdeen, Dunfermline Athletic and Queen of the South. His understanding of the game at multiple levels, alongside his coaching credentials, adds valuable experience and leadership to the new-look staff.
Starrs, who has already been an important part of the coaching team at Alliance Park, will remain on the staff as coach. His knowledge of the club, his connection with the existing squad and his enthusiasm for the project will help support a smooth transition as McNee and Paton take the reins.
Owner Chris Ewing believes the new management team is the right fit to drive the club forward.
“Jamie was an outstanding candidate throughout the process. He is full of enthusiasm, positive energy and ambition, and he bought into the club’s vision immediately. We are excited to welcome him to Caledonian Braves and believe he is the right person to lead the club into this new chapter. Michael brings valuable experience from both his coaching and playing career, and Cole’s continued presence is important as we build for the future. There is real determination and excitement around what comes next for this football club.”
New manager McNee spoke of his excitement at getting started.
“It’s an absolute privilege to take on this role as manager of Caledonian Braves. After a really positive couple of nights on the training pitch, it’s clear to me that this is an energetic, positive squad capable of pushing to new heights – heights I firmly believe I can help them reach. I’m delighted to have Michael Paton on board, somebody I’ve worked closely with in different roles over the past decade and someone I trust immensely. It’s also been great to meet Cole Starrs, who will be staying on as part of the coaching staff. Cole has experience and a real love for the club, which he has already shown through his energy and eagerness to work – exactly the traits we want to see in our squad.”

McNee, Paton and Starrs will now turn their focus to preparations on the training pitch as they shape the squad and style of play ahead of the new campaign. With a refreshed coaching team, a clear vision and a strong sense of belief in what can be achieved, everyone at Caledonian Braves is looking forward to the future with determination and excitement.