From Isolation to European Ambitions: Craig Harrison's Remarkable Journey

Craig Harrison's Unlikely Return to Football Management

Craig Harrison, currently in his second term as manager of The New Saints (TNS), is gearing up for a significant match against Kazakhstan's Astana in the UEFA Conference League. Reflecting on his journey, Harrison recalls his unexpected return to football after initially distancing himself from the sport following a life-altering injury.

Once a promising player, Harrison's career was cut short at just 24 due to a severe leg fracture during a reserve match. Following this traumatic experience, he found himself engulfed in depression, distancing himself from family and friends and isolating himself during the holidays. “I honestly couldn’t have thought of anything worse than being a manager or a coach,” he admits, highlighting his emotional struggle during that period.

The Turning Point

Harrison's journey back to football began serendipitously at a birthday party, where a chance encounter with a former Wrexham midfielder reignited his passion for the game. Initially resistant to the idea of coaching, he eventually agreed to assist at a local club, which set him on a path he never envisioned. Within a year, he found himself managing the team, rapidly completing his coaching qualifications.

As he took charge of TNS, Harrison led the club to multiple titles, including a record-breaking 27-match winning streak. His success in the Welsh leagues culminated in becoming the first manager to take a Welsh team to the group stages of European competition.

Challenges and Resilience

Despite his achievements, Harrison faced challenges at Hartlepool United, where he experienced a tough stint marked by financial difficulties and poor results. However, he views this setback as a pivotal experience that shaped him into a better manager and person. “As bad as it was, it was the best life and football experience I could have had for making me a better manager, father, husband. A better person,” he reflects.

Harrison has since found a balance in his life, realizing the importance of perspective. Even after recent losses, he maintains that they are a minor blip compared to his overall success at TNS. “It’s still only four in three years,” he notes, emphasizing the need to focus on the bigger picture.

A New Mindset for European Competition

Now preparing for the UEFA Conference League fixture against Astana, Harrison embraces the opportunity to challenge in Europe. He recognizes that his experiences have equipped him with the resilience needed for high-stakes competitions. “I was still battling with who I was and perhaps more worried about what people thought of me,” he admits, but his perspective has shifted to prioritize character over reputation.

As TNS aims to make its mark in European football, Harrison stands as a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. His journey from isolation to leading a team on the European stage underscores the transformative nature of sports and the human spirit.