Born Govan Glasgow in 1935, as was Alex Ferguson, although Fergie was seven years younger. They had many things in common being brought up in the same area, attending Govan High school, and playing football with the former pupil’s team, albeit at different times. Coming from a large family Maxis younger brothers were more familiar with his background. Alex progressed to Harmony Row Boys Club at 16 as did Ronnie Rattray (younger brother). Maxis dad also had involvement with junior football at that time and knew all the young promising players coming through. Max joined St Constantines Juveniles at 17 (played in Celtic colours) and was a successful local Govan team. After 2 seasons Max joined Glasgow Rangers at 19. In those days Rangers Celtic and the big English clubs signed almost every young Scottish player who showed any promise.
Rangers loaned Max out to a semi pro team called Strathclyde F.C. This was normal practice and was good experience. It was a tough physical league made up by loan players from league clubs and players who had been league pros and finishing their careers.
Whilst his football was progressing he was also serving a five year draughtsman apprenticeship which entailed attending night school three nights a week for five years (didn’t leave much time for training). In those days many players were part time indeed several Rangers had professional jobs outside football and trained in the evenings which was great for the young players training alongside Internationals
Unfortunately Max had not established himself in Rangers first team when called up for national service i.e. 2 years in the armed forces However after basic training he trained and played with army sides made up of English first division players and a few Scots Max reckons he was a much improved player when his army spell was over On leave he played in some minor games for Rangers and some important games for Strathclyde FC
On his return he opted to become a full timer What an experience There were no training grounds or Academies then and all the training was at Ibrox Stadium The massive terracing was used to its maximum to build up stamina and leg strength There were so many good players at Ibrox that Max had to make a big decision of whether to continue football or to pick up his Engineering career. He selected the latter much to the horror of his dad and brothers although mum was quietly satisfied with his decision. When the manager (Scot Symon) was informed he expressed his disappointment and advised he was determined to make all his staff full time. This resulted in Max being released at the end of season 1958/59
He continued to play for non league side Cambuslang Rangers,.and for 2 years turned out on a regular basis for them. His engineering company were keen to involve him in contracts outside Scotland which eventually led to coming to Barrow as a technical manager at Vickers. And settling with wife and family in Askam. In May 1972 Max was asked to join Barrow AFC As a director this then led to becoming vice chairman in 1974. In 1982 he was offered a contract in Canada which was impossible to refuse, and his association with AFC ended and being made a life member of the club he served so well for 10 years. In Canada football emerged and Max coached the Ottawa Royals A prominent semi pro club playing in the Ontario League.
Max and family returned to Askam in 1992. After they had settled, Barrow AFC convinced Max to return as Chief Exec. Unfortunately owing to health after 15 months he had to give it up .Now football interests are centred on Duddon Sports Junior Football Club. Max is the founder member and established the club in May 2000.Now acting as President still enjoys being part of the set up the companionship, and seeing the development of the children coming through the various age groups.
Attends Barrow AFC home fixtures and is President of their National Supporters Club.