Sir Alex Ferguson heading back to school to celebrate Govan High's Centenary

Dec 10 2009 By Peter Carroll

MANCHESTER UNITED boss Sir Alex Ferguson is coming home for his old high school's 100th birthday.

Fergie - born and raised in Glasgow - will share his memories of Govan High School with current pupils early next year.

The school has changed drastically over the years and now boasts a dance studio, hairdressing salon and an all weather football pitch.

And Fergie, who said he was deeply impressed with the improvements, didn't think twice when he was invited back to the school by headteacher Iain White, pictured.

He says growing up in Govan gave him the skills needed to make it in football.

He said: "I am absolutely proud to have been brought up in an area where loyalty, hard work and determination are key assets."

It was during his time with the school team that his love for football was cemented, with help from coach George Symington.

He said: "Without question, I loved it. We had a terrific team, which went one-and-a-half years unbeaten until we lost the Scottish Shield final at Hampden Park to St Pats Dumbarton."

And Fergie passed on some words of wisdom to the current players on Govan High''s team.

He said: "First of all, just enjoy playing. If they are serious about turning professional they must have a strong practice ethic. This is as good advice as you'll ever get."

Fergie said his favourite subjects were History, Geography, French and German.

But his most vivid memory is being told to leave school after three years because his marks were poor.

He said: "The headmaster, Mr Hutchison, called me into his office to tell me my grades were not good enough in Maths and English. So I had to leave and get a job.

"I couldn't get to grips with English and Maths and should have concentrated better."

The celebrations begin on February 1 when Fergie, along with staff and past pupils, will be honoured at a civic reception being hosted by Lord Provost Bob Winters at Glasgow City Chambers.

Mr White said: "Everyone has worked very hard on the centenary celebrations and we know 2010 will be a great year for Govan High.

"We have been very pleased with the response from our past pupils, including Sir Alex.

"We intend to ensure that our 100th is remembered not only in Govan, but throughout the city."

The school has started a website - http://ghs100.org.uk - and is asking former pupils to submit memories and photographs from their time at the school.