Members News: Ex Sky Blue Midfielder & Staffer Is 66 Today. ‘Happy Birthday’, Ray
CCFPA wishes our member Ray Gooding ‘Many Happy Returns’ as he is celebrating his 66th birthday today!
Hartlepool born (on 16th February 1959), Ray came to Highfield Road from his home town club as an apprentice, turning professional in June 1976. He made his debut for the Sky Blues in a single goal defeat at Newcastle United on 23rd March 1977. In six Sky Blue seasons Ray was only able to put together a decent run of appearances in 1979-80 as successive knee injuries caused him problems.
By the time he left CCFC for Plymouth Argyle in summer 1982 Ray had clocked up five goals in his 55 first team appearances (plus three appearances for Bristol City on loan). The Robins had hoped to buy Ray once he had proved his fitness but the club’s financial difficulties (going into receivership) stymied the move. Therefore he only stayed a short time in the south-west turning out nine times for the Argyle (scoring one goal) before moving to Bedworth Town where further injury finally terminated his career in 1983.
Initially a local government officer Ray was brought back to Highfield Road as Youth Development Officer in 1991 and was CCFC’s Community Development Officer when he left for a similar role at Newcastle United in 2008.
In April 2015 his return to the Sky Blues as Senior Midland Scout was announced after a period of time assisting Birmingham City in a similar capacity. Since November 2017 Ray has also been involved in Leeds United‘s scouting set up.
Enjoy a great day today Ray!!
We look forward to seeing you back at the Sky Blues (in a non work capacity) for an Association event.
