Sad News As Cal Passes Away

Everyone connected with Cowdenbeath FC was truly saddened today to learn of the passing of a real Cowden legend - Willie Callaghan at the early age of just 56.

Like his famous father he played for both West Fife clubs and he was a member of a family which has the unique record of 4 separate generations having played for the Blue Brazil. Prior to first going senior, Willie represented Hill of Beath Swifts (where he played in the side which won the Under-14 Scottish Cup) and Dunfermline Railway Club. He then had two spells with Dunfermline (including loan outs to Cowden (twice), Walsall, Portadown, and Clyde) sandwiched between a junior stint with Halbeath Juniors. Back in the juniors with the highly successful Kelty Hearts side he played a trial for Albion Rovers before Jim Leishman signed him again for both Inverness Thistle and then Montrose. In 1992/93, at last, Cowden captured Willie on a permanent basis. A fast, hard working striker, Willie was top scorer in his first 2 full seasons with Cowden. He was Cowden’s player of the year in 1994. Jim Leishman then signed him for Livingston as he had done on several occasions in the past. He then played for Partick Thistle before going junior again and playing for several clubs including Camelon, Lochore Welfare and Glenafton. Willie scored 28 League goals for Cowden. Many were highly memorable including both goals at East End Park in a miraculous 2-0 Cowden victory. These goals cost Dunfermline promotion and ended Cowden’s Barnstoneworth United-like run of 33 league games without a win. He also a year later scored the winner v Arbroath that ended Cowden’s 38 home matches without a win hoodoo.

Our condolences go out to Willie snr, Liam and all the Callaghan family. Thanks for all the great memories Cal - you will be much missed by us all. It only seems like yesterday when you were a Central Park hero - that's how time slips away.