Fraser Fyvie took on a lot of challenges as a young player, and he hopes to pass on his knowledge to the next generation.
The former Aberdeen youngster, once the Dons’ youngest player, is combining his playing career with Cove Rangers and burgeoning car business with undertaking his coaching badges.
Fyvie coaches Cove’s under-20s and has benefited from the advice of manager Paul Hartley, his assistant Gordon Young and head of youth Gary Hake.
He made his debut at the age of 16 for the Dons in 2009, joined Wigan three years later and was part of their 2013 FA Cup-winning squad.
On his return to Scotland with Hibernian he also featured in their memorable Scottish Cup triumph over Rangers.
Along the way came the injury setbacks, suffering cruciate ligament injuries to both knees, and towards the end of his time at Dundee United he lost the buzz of being a professional footballer.
But his latest step, back in his home city of Aberdeen, has helped galvanise Fyvie again.
He said: “I’m learning a lot. It’s been insightful, working with Gordon Young and the manager.
“I speak to them a lot and have been getting a lot of insight from them both. You can’t help but learn from them.
“I’ve been trying to pass on bits (to the players) but it’s difficult as you’re only training maybe once a week or once a fortnight.
“I was always determined to be a player and when I got the opportunity I was never more happy, being a home-town boy playing for Aberdeen.
“The injury part of things helps you grow as a person, spending nine months alone in the gym. You learn more about yourself and the people around you. The boys are just enjoying it and long may that continue, as I’d never wish anyone to go through a long-term injury.
“Before I signed for Cove I wasn’t sure if it was the right thing to do or not.
“At Dundee United, after I’d done my knee, it got to the point where I wasn’t enjoying it. That wasn’t there for me like it was at Aberdeen, Wigan and Hibs. The buzz had gone.
“I can honestly say this is one of the best things I’ve done. The manager has been top with me and it’s just a really good place to be.”
Cove take on Stirling Albion at the Balmoral Stadium today sitting top of League 2 in their inaugural campaign as an SPFL club.
“The ambition is there for all to see.”
Fyvie added: “The club, for the last few years, has had great standards off the pitch. They’re growing, with little changes here and there. Everyone around the club puts a real work-rate into it.
“Sustainability is a big thing. The ambition is there to grow the club, and as players we want to be part of it.”
The artificial surface at the Balmoral Stadium has, to this point, caused no issues for Fyvie after the aforementioned knee operations.
He added: “I can hold my hands up and say I’ve never been a fan of artificial pitches but it’s the best I’ve been on. I don’t get any reactions off the pitch, so touch wood that continues.
“I’m not in any pain and that’s credit to the club because there are surfaces you can put down that aren’t great.”