This past week the Academy teams played their first official home games since the passing of Charlie Watson.

Before their matches versus Dundee on Tuesday (19s) and Friday (17s), both squads, officials and spectators paid tribute to the former Academy player. Respective captains from each squad carried out the number 4 jersey bearing Charlie’s name and placed it on the centre spot before all in attendance at the matches participated in a minute applause in memory of Charlie.

Charlie joined our Youth Academy following a successful trial period in the 2020-2021 season. His first game (an Under 16 CAS Cup match away at Greenock Morton) set the tone for the way Charlie would go about his business on the park. Booked within one minute of entering the pitch for a 'robust' tackle, it was this energy and work ethic that quickly made him a popular teammate and one that everyone looked up to.

After the summer, Charlie moved on to the Under 18 side before stepping up to the Reserve setup. He remained a big character in the dressing room, setting high standards and accepting no less from others around him; he truly was the epitome of hard work and dedication. His spirit, passion and love for the game never dropped, despite the challenging times he faced. Even when he moved on to local clubs Dalbeattie Star and Threave Rovers, we all enjoyed a wee visit from Charlie at Palmerston with his usual energy and positivity that are synonymous with him. Charlie really was one in a million to coach and will be forever remembered in the Academy and the entire community of Queen of the South FC.