Andy Halliday, a Motherwell midfielder and former Rangers player, recently shared a funny anecdote about the daily sweepstake that he and his teammates used to have during training sessions. The focus of their bets was Gary McAllister, the assistant manager under Steven Gerrard at the time.
McAllister, a former Scotland and Liverpool player, had a routine of practicing an invisible golf swing every day during training. This quirky habit became the source of entertainment for the Rangers players, who would place bets on the exact time McAllister would perform his signature move.
According to Halliday, the players would participate in a daily sweepstake, guessing the precise moment when McAllister would do his invisible swing. The bets ranged from 10:05 to 10:06, with money being pooled into the pot. Despite the structured warm-up routine that involved laps around the training pitch and discussions with sports scientists, the players couldn’t help but be distracted by McAllister’s golf-inspired gesture.
The camaraderie and lightheartedness of the sweepstake added an element of fun to the training sessions, showcasing the playful dynamic among the Rangers squad during Gerrard’s tenure. While the primary focus was on preparing for matches and achieving success on the field, moments like these helped foster team spirit and unity.
McAllister’s passion for golf and his unique training ritual not only entertained the players but also highlighted the personal quirks and relationships within the team. The behind-the-scenes glimpse into this humorous tradition offers fans a different perspective on the professional football environment and the bonds that are formed among teammates and coaching staff.
As Rangers celebrated their 55th league title and prevented Celtic from securing a historic 10 in a row, stories like the daily sweepstake serve as a reminder of the lighter side of the sport. While the competitive nature of football often takes center stage, it’s moments of levity and camaraderie that create lasting memories and strengthen the team’s unity.
In the high-pressure world of professional football, finding moments of joy and connection can make all the difference in building a successful team. The shared laughter and camaraderie that stemmed from a simple daily sweepstake demonstrate that even in the midst of intense competition, there is always room for fun and bonding among teammates and coaches.