Joe Mason (1972 to 1973)

A terrific servant to Rangers, Joe signed in the aftermath of the European success of 1972 in what was a period of transition at Ibrox.

At 32-years of age, and with over 100 career goals to his name with Kilmarnock and Morton, perhaps there was a long term strategy surrounding Mason's arrival when, within the space of 12-months, Joe became Rangers’ assistant trainer. This followed on from the appointment of Stan Anderson as Manager of Clyde.

A clever midfielder with an eye for goal, Joe made his first team debut on October 14th 1972 in a League victory over Motherwell at Fir Park. His first goal came the following week at Gayfield as Rangers defeated Arbroath.

Having worked under Willie Waddell at Kilmarnock where he signed from Lugar Bothwell Thistle, it was the then General Manager who announced in 1973 that Joe would replace Anderson as trainer whilst also assuming responsibility for overseeing the Reserve side.

Over the next decade, Joe would demonstrate his coaching abilities where he achieved great success with both the 1st Team and Reserve sides.

The eventual departure of Manager John Greig in the Autumn of 1983 resulted in a comprehensive reorganisation within the Gers coaching staff and, after 11 years at Ibrox, Joe left the Club. Also departing were Tommy McLean and Davie Provan. Four men who represented Rangers with honour and distinction for so many years both on and off the pitch.

Joe Mason died on the 26th of September 2019, aged 79.

by Rick Plews