Ex-Scottish football referee lands major golf role

A former Scottish football referee has landed a huge job in the golf industry.

Ronnie Myles, 67, will become president of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) in 2025.

It’s a remarkable career shift for Myles, who once ran the line in an Old Firm game, as well as officiating in European matches.

He was then made the head greenkeeper at Buchanan Castle, after also spending two seasons as Broxi Bear, the matchday mascot of Rangers Football Club.

But Myles will formally be appointed his new title at the BIGGA Annual General Meeting in January after immediately stepping into the role of Vice President.

“I was absolutely flabbergasted to be asked to become BIGGA President,” Myles said.

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“Having been a member of greenkeeper associations for more than 50 years, I feel very proud and honoured to be asked to represent BIGGA in this way.

“This year I hope we’re able to enhance the profile of greenkeepers and continue the progression of our association, which has come a long way over the last ten to 15 years.

“Fifty years ago, greenkeeping was thought of as a dead-end profession, but now, there are real opportunities that come with greenkeeping, and you have the chance to build a great career.”

Myles began his career at East Kilbride Golf Club in 1971 before enjoying stints at Cathkin Braes, Erskine, Helensburgh and Scarcroft in West Yorkshire.

That was before finally settling at Buchanan Castle, where he worked until his retirement in 2022.

Myles also spent over 20 years with the BIGGA West of Scotland Section, acting as chairperson and secretary.

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He was then vice-chairperson of the BIGGA Scotland and Northern Ireland Region before being appointed the Region’s first President in 2023.

Despite retiring, Myles still works seasonally at Stirling Golf Club.

Jim Croxton, BIGGA CEO, said: “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Ronnie throughout my 13 years with BIGGA and I know how warmly he’s thought of in BIGGA Scotland and Northern Ireland, where he’s a popular and well-known figure.

“When he was proposed as BIGGA President 2025, the nomination was received enthusiastically by the BIGGA Board of Management and I’m looking forward to working alongside him.

“The coming year stands to be a crucial time in the history of our association as we seek to reshape our membership offering and build a structure that provides even more support and advice to greenkeepers at every stage of their career.”

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.