Jan Szpula, a championship winning player in the 1940s has passed the century mark. Congratulations Jan, from everyone at Stirling Albion!
Now living in St Ninians, Jan moved to Scotland from Łaziska Górne, a small village in Poland. A corporal in the Polish Army, Jan was stationed at the Recovery Barracks in Causewayhead.
His footballing career started at Beith Juniors before he moved on to Alloa Athletic. From there he was signed by the Albion.
During his spell with Stirling Albion (Sep 1948 to May 1950), he played in the promotion winning team of 1948-49 and part of season 14949-50 in Scotland’s top division. Jan played 38 games for the Albion, scoring 8 goals.
An injury cut short his footballing career. A testimonial match to raise funds for the player, forced into early retirement took place in September 1952, an Albion side losing 5-1 to a Stirlingshire Select side.
Jan joined Rossleigh’s Garage as a chauffeur and settled in St Ninians with his wife and family.
100 years old on 6th January, Jan received the customary message (telegram) from the King and the Queen Consort.
Well done Jan.
Back row – Jan Szpula, Ian Bain, John Muir, Morawiece Gerhard, John Whiteford, Walter Reid.
Front row – Josie McKeown, Willie Keith, Jack Jones, George Dick and James Drury
