Glasgow college launches World Cup course

A Scottish college has launched a World Cup course ahead of the Tartan Army’s first appearance since 1998.

Glasgow Clyde College has introduced a one-off course at the Innovation Centre on its Langside Campus, helping introduce the history of the national team ahead of the tournament’s kick-off in June.

Scotland begin their World Cup campaign in Boston on June 14 against Haiti, then take on Morocco on June 19 at 11pm, before facing off against Brazil on June 24 at 11pm.

Thousands of fans are expected to descend upon North America, with Scots among the fans receiving the most travel authorisations for the US.

Craig Telfer, known for his A View from the Terraces podcast, and Tartan Army veteran Hamish Husband, are now set to share a passionate retelling of the history of the national team and an overview of the tournament.

“I’ve followed Scotland my whole life, seeing my first national game as a child, before travelling all over the world with the Tartan Army”, said Hamish, who has been to Argentina 1978, Italy 1990, and France 1998 previously.

“From far-flung places in Europe to being fortunate enough to take in some incredible tournaments, from Argentina, to Mexico and Italy – special times that will live with me forever.

“I’m looking forward to passing on my knowledge and stories to the next generation, giving my expert opinion on how best to enjoy a Scotland game, which believe me, is possible.”

Scotland last appeared at a World Cup in France 98, where Craig Brown’s men opened the World Cup against reigning champions Brazil, losing 2-1 thanks to a late own-goal. That was followed up by a 1-1 draw with Norway and a 3-0 defeat to Morocco.

The course will tap into these moments, and questions such as when to wear a kilt, which songs to know, and where to meet fans.

It will go over crucial goals, golden moments and all the “glorious failure” seen throughout the decades.

“This means so much to Scotland, and it’s such an important moment in our nation’s footballing history”, Telfer added.

“This masterclass is just the warm-up to the kick-off, and will get fans ready for the whistle-blowing on June 14.”

The free one-off course will take place at the college’s Langside Campus on Thursday, May 28. More information is available here.

Robert Anderson, assistant principal at Glasgow Clyde College said: “The nation is getting ready to cheer Scotland on at the World Cup next month, it’s been a long time coming with a whole generation of fans having never seen their country play on the world stage.

“Our free course is here to give them a headstart, whether they are trekking over to America or finding their own ‘mini Hampden’ at home.”