Nairn County’s Max Ewan has netted seven times in his first Highland League campaign. But he is not done there.
The 17-year-old juggles his studies at Nairn Academy, playing football for the North of Scotland schools side and working with his father Richard, the course manager at Nairn Golf Club.
The former Caley Thistle youngster joined Nairn last summer and has revelled in his busy schedule.
He said: “I’m doing seasonal work at the golf club, which means getting up at 5 or 6am. Some mornings are tougher than others but if I miss my alarm, my dad gives me a shout.
“I’m usually finished by 11am, so I’ve got time to chill out and see my friends.
“I did a lot of highers last year but sixth year isn’t as bad. I go to college on a Friday to do a higher and an advanced higher. It still gives me time to focus on my football.”
He plays alongside Caley Jag sensation Daniel MacKay for the North schools’ side, who face either Aberdeen or Aberdeenshire in the Senior National Trophy final in May.
The sixth-year pupil, who netted against Turriff on Wednesday, was eased into first-team action by Wee County boss Ronnie Sharp, after joining from Inverness as a 16-year-old.
Sharp has largely relied on youth to hit the goal trail this season, with 20-year-old Jordan MacRae leading the way with 24 goals. Dylan Mackenzie (19) is also into double figures.
Ewan bagged his first goal for the club in the 3-2 win over Buckie Thistle in August but had to wait until March for his first start. His seven goals have come in 28 appearances and he is happy at his increasing role at Station Park.
He added: “Ronnie was protecting me at first but that did me good. I’m signed until 2020, so I just want to keep learning and contribute as much as I can.
“The situation at Inverness was never really clear. Because of relegation, I didn’t know where I stood. A couple of mates played for Nairn and said it was a really good environment. Everyone took to me well and it’s been a really good standard.
“There’s a lot of boys my age and that’s made the transition easier. We’re going in the right direction and if we can get to 50 points, we can kick on next season.”