Albion Rovers are being investigated by the SFA for their child and welfare protection practices, an Airdrie and Coabridge Advertiser investigation can reveal.
The governing body of Scottish football are looking into an alleged incident involving one coach at the club who has dealings with the first team and reserve side.
The shock news follows the resignation of Child and Welfare Protection Officer Andy Tallan from his role within Rovers.
It is understood Tallan was conducting his own investigation into the claims before his exit, where he has receiving guidance from the SFA.
However, he stepped away from his role amid a storm and alleged pressure from the hierarchy within the League Two outfit to halt the investigation.
On the Albion Rovers website Tallan is said to “oversee and advise on all safeguarding issues” and “has a wealth of experience in this area, having carried out this role for several years with community youth football teams in the area.”
The material he had collected so far has now been passed on to the Hampden chiefs.
A whistleblower close to the situation told the Advertiser that they didn’t know if the unnamed coach was “just being stupid or it was something a hell of a lot worse.”
They further added that they felt Albion Rovers were not “safeguarding” the players and following the SFA guidelines.
A source within the SFA has confirmed that they are aware of the incident and are treating it as on-going matter at this stage.
They note that they are continuing a dialogue with the
For it to fall under the remit of the Child and Welfare Protection Officer the person involved would have to be under the age of 18, according to SFA guidelines.
Currently any alleged incident has not been reported to the police.
Members of the Albion Rovers board will be meeting with SFA representative this week to further discuss the practices at the club with regards to child and welfare protection, it is understood.
It is believed this meeting will include discussions regarding the information passed the SFA as well as advice on appointing a new Child and Welfare Protection Officer.
A spokesman for Albion Rovers dubbed the report passed to the football authorities “as an unsubstantiated allegation”
The spokesman told the Airdrie and Coatbridge Advertiser: “We have been made aware that a report of an unsubstantiated allegation has been sent to the SFA.
“Albion Rovers FC takes its child wellbeing and protection responsibilities very seriously.
“We will work closely with the SFA on this matter.”
