Arbroath co-manager David Gold sat down with me this week to discuss his transition into management, last season’s League One title win, working alongside long-time teammate Colin Hamilton, and what lies ahead as the club returns to the Scottish Championship.
David, you’re are one of the co-managers at Arbroath alongside Colin Hamilton having been appointed in September 2024.
What has that transition been like for you both?
“Honestly, it’s felt like a crash course at times — high intensity, constant learning, and zero room for coasting. I’ve had to be proactive and lean heavily on my network: people I trust, who’ve been through similar challenges, and who aren’t afraid to be honest with me. I’ve reached out, asked questions, and really tried to absorb as much as I can, as fast as I can.
“Colin’s been a massive part of that. We’ve leaned on each other a lot – it’s been a proper two-way street. There’ve been moments where we’ve both been really challenged, but that’s where the growth has happened. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s been genuinely rewarding. It’s pushed me harder than most things I’ve done, but it’s also opened my eyes to just how much I’m capable of when the pressure is on.
“It’s been a rollercoaster, unpredictable at times, intense, and full-on but I wouldn’t trade the experience. I’ve learned a ridiculous amount, not just about the work, but about how I operate under pressure, how I communicate, how I lead, and where I need to keep growing.”
Last season ended with the club securing the League One title to win promotion to the Scottish Championship. How satisfying was it to finish the campaign so strongly?
“It was a really special moment and, certainly, one that’ll stay with me for a long time. I said it at the time, and I still stand by it: the way we won that final game spoke volumes about the character of the group. That result had been building for weeks. You could feel it. The performances were there; the intent was there but we just hadn’t quite put it all together until that moment.
“In hindsight, maybe we could’ve closed things out earlier. We let a couple of leads slip in previous matches, which made things more dramatic than they needed to be. But in the end, we showed up when it mattered most.
“Full credit to the squad – not just as players, but as people. They handled the pressure, stayed united, and kept believing. We trusted them completely, and they repaid that trust in full. That win wasn’t a fluke or a lucky break, it was the result of a group that bought into the process, stuck together, and earned it.”
You’ve been with Arbroath since 2015. What have been your personal highlights as a player before stepping into management?
“I’ve been fortunate to experience some really high moments that really meant something, that cut through all the noise. The standout, without question, was being asked to step into the manager’s role alongside Colin.
“We’ve been teammates and close mates for nearly a decade, and that bond – along with our deep connection to the club – made it feel like more than just a job. It felt personal. Taking it on together wasn’t just a professional step forward; it was a shared commitment to something we both genuinely care about.
“When the offer to take the role on permanently came through, it was surreal. One of those moments where everything goes quiet for a second. You think about how far you’ve come, and suddenly the weight of it hits you. But what really stood out was the reaction from the dressing room. The players were unbelievable and fully behind us, all in. That kind of response gives you confidence, but more importantly, it gives you responsibility. You want to give them everything you’ve got.
“To go from bottom of the league to the top – that’s what you dream about. Not just for yourself, but for everyone who’s bought in, dug deep, and stayed with it. It’s not been easy, and we’re under no illusions that the hard work stops now. But to have been part of a turnaround like that, at a club that means so much to us drives us on to continue doing the best job that we can for the club.”
How do you and Colin divide up the responsibilities that come with co-managing?
“We’re fully embedded in the club – day and night. Both of us run businesses and have young families, so we understand the realities and pressures each other’s dealing with. There’s no ego and no rigid roles. If one of us is stretched, the other steps in. It’s not about who does what – it’s about making sure the job gets done.
“We’re also fortunate to be surrounded by a top-class coaching team. Gary looks after the goalkeepers, Colin Jack brings great energy and insight as first-team coach, Max drives the sports science side, and Mark is outstanding as our physio. Everyone communicates, everyone collaborates. Whether it’s player wellbeing, match tactics, or physical preparation, we’re aligned, and we move as a unit.
“That culture extends beyond the staff. Everyone plays their part, and everyone gets treated the right way. You could ask any former player, loan signing, or visiting staff member and they’ll all say the same thing: they were looked after. That’s something we take real pride in. At Arbroath, we believe in doing things the right way, and that standard doesn’t change – no matter the result, no matter the league.”
You and Colin have both played in the Championship with Arbroath. Will that experience help guide you this season from the dugout?
“Definitely. Back then, we had the right mix – experienced players who understood the demands of the league, and younger ones who were eager to make their mark. That balance was key. It gave us both stability and energy, and it created a healthy, competitive environment within the squad.
“That experience is something we’ll lean on now. We know what worked, and we’ll look to replicate that same balance moving forward – players who’ve been there and done it, alongside others with something to prove. Get that blend right, and you give yourself a real platform to build from.”
How important was signing someone like Ross Callachan, who has substantial Scottish Premiership experience?
“It’s hugely exciting for the club. We know it’s going to be a very difficult league because there are a lot of strong teams, players, and managers in the Championship.
“You need resilience and the right character. We’re very lucky to have someone of Ross’s quality. We know his mindset and professionalism, and that sets him apart.”
From the outside looking in, survival looks like it will be the main aim. But what are your goals for the season ahead?
“Survival is obviously a target, but we want to get there and then see where we’re at. We’re not limiting ourselves.”
Finally, David, you recently celebrated a decade of service to the club. What was that like for you?
“To be honest, my time at the club has been full of ‘pinch me’ moments. From the day I arrived, it’s been nonstop – there’s always been a match to prepare for, a decision to make, a player to sign, or an injury to manage. It doesn’t leave much space to pause and reflect properly.
“I’m sure when the time eventually comes to step back, I’ll be able to take it all in. Not that I’m in any rush for that moment.
“What stands out most and what I’ll always be proud of are the people I’ve had the privilege to meet and work with. The fans, the directors, the players I’ve shared the pitch with, and the staff I’ve worked alongside – every one of them has shaped my experience in a positive way. I’m genuinely grateful to everyone who’s been part of my journey at Arbroath. It’s a special club, and it’s been an honour to be part of it.”
Featured image: Arbroath Football Club / Arbroath FC TV
Callum McFadden 