The Perth community is reeling from the sudden and profound loss of Michael Dott, a cherished father-of-two and an influential figure in local football. Mr. Dott, aged 46, passed away earlier this month following a heart attack, leaving a significant void in the lives of those who knew him.
Known affectionately across the Fair City as ‘one of life’s truly good guys,’ Michael dedicated much of his life to the sport he loved, both as a player and a coach. His unwavering commitment to the game and his deep roots in Perthshire’s sporting landscape made him a widely respected and admired individual. A Legacy Forged on Perth’s Pitches
Born and raised in Perth, Michael’s journey in football began early and continued throughout his life. He was a familiar face on local pitches, having played for several prominent clubs, including Montrose, Kinnoull, Luncarty, and Fair City. His passion for the game was infectious, and he brought a unique energy and dedication to every team he joined.
For a decade, Michael served as a part-time coach at Jeanfield Swifts, a well-regarded semi-professional club that competes in the East of Scotland Premier League at the Riverside Stadium. His role extended beyond tactical guidance; he was a mentor and a source of inspiration for countless young players and fellow coaches. He was known for his calm demeanour and his ability to bring out the best in everyone around him. A Respected Figure, On and Off the Field
Friends and colleagues have shared heartfelt tributes, emphasizing Michael’s remarkable character. Scott Cummings, a fellow coach and long-time friend, articulated the immense shock and sorrow felt by many, stating that ‘nobody ever said a bad word about him.’ This sentiment resonates deeply within the close-knit Perth footballing community, where Michael’s integrity and kindness were universally acknowledged.
His priorities were always clear: family came first. Despite his extensive involvement in football, Michael consistently ensured his family was his primary focus. He is survived by his devoted wife, Louise, and their two children, Oliver and Zara. His son, Oliver, inherited his father’s love for football, playing locally in Perth and proudly supporting St Johnstone Football Club, a passion he shared with his dad. A Family Tradition in Football
The Dott name holds a special place in Perth’s football history. Michael’s father, Andy Dott, is a well-known figure within local football circles, having carved out his own respected career in the sport. This generational connection to football in the region highlights the deep-seated passion that ran through the Dott family, a legacy Michael proudly continued and passed on to his own children.
The impact of Michael’s passing was immediately felt. Jeanfield Swifts honoured his memory with a minute’s silence before a recent game, a poignant moment reflecting the deep respect held for him. The club also plans further tributes in the coming weeks, ensuring his contributions and spirit are not forgotten. Beyond formal gestures, friends gathered informally to celebrate his life, raising a glass to a man who touched so many.
Michael Dott’s passing is a significant loss not just to his family and the football community, but to the wider Perth and Kinross area. He will be remembered for his dedication, his warmth, and for being, as many attest, truly ‘one of life’s good guys.’
Known affectionately across the Fair City as ‘one of life’s truly good guys,’ Michael dedicated much of his life to the sport he loved, both as a player and a coach. His unwavering commitment to the game and his deep roots in Perthshire’s sporting landscape made him a widely respected and admired individual. A Legacy Forged on Perth’s Pitches
Born and raised in Perth, Michael’s journey in football began early and continued throughout his life. He was a familiar face on local pitches, having played for several prominent clubs, including Montrose, Kinnoull, Luncarty, and Fair City. His passion for the game was infectious, and he brought a unique energy and dedication to every team he joined.
For a decade, Michael served as a part-time coach at Jeanfield Swifts, a well-regarded semi-professional club that competes in the East of Scotland Premier League at the Riverside Stadium. His role extended beyond tactical guidance; he was a mentor and a source of inspiration for countless young players and fellow coaches. He was known for his calm demeanour and his ability to bring out the best in everyone around him. A Respected Figure, On and Off the Field
Friends and colleagues have shared heartfelt tributes, emphasizing Michael’s remarkable character. Scott Cummings, a fellow coach and long-time friend, articulated the immense shock and sorrow felt by many, stating that ‘nobody ever said a bad word about him.’ This sentiment resonates deeply within the close-knit Perth footballing community, where Michael’s integrity and kindness were universally acknowledged.
His priorities were always clear: family came first. Despite his extensive involvement in football, Michael consistently ensured his family was his primary focus. He is survived by his devoted wife, Louise, and their two children, Oliver and Zara. His son, Oliver, inherited his father’s love for football, playing locally in Perth and proudly supporting St Johnstone Football Club, a passion he shared with his dad. A Family Tradition in Football
The Dott name holds a special place in Perth’s football history. Michael’s father, Andy Dott, is a well-known figure within local football circles, having carved out his own respected career in the sport. This generational connection to football in the region highlights the deep-seated passion that ran through the Dott family, a legacy Michael proudly continued and passed on to his own children.
The impact of Michael’s passing was immediately felt. Jeanfield Swifts honoured his memory with a minute’s silence before a recent game, a poignant moment reflecting the deep respect held for him. The club also plans further tributes in the coming weeks, ensuring his contributions and spirit are not forgotten. Beyond formal gestures, friends gathered informally to celebrate his life, raising a glass to a man who touched so many.
Michael Dott’s passing is a significant loss not just to his family and the football community, but to the wider Perth and Kinross area. He will be remembered for his dedication, his warmth, and for being, as many attest, truly ‘one of life’s good guys.’