Born in Saltcoats, Scotland in 1943, Dave Paton’s journey in football began in a modest way, playing for the Saxone Amateurs, a small local club.
Though the Saxone Amateurs may not have had the stature of bigger clubs, it was the stepping stone for Paton, who was looking to make a name for himself in the world of professional football. His hard work paid off when, in 1962, he was signed by St Mirren. However, as it sometimes happens in football, not all early moves lead to instant success. Paton was released from the club without making a first-team appearance. Nevertheless, this setback did not deter him from pursuing his dream. In fact, it only fueled his desire to find his place in the game. After parting ways with St Mirren, Paton made a crucial career move when he joined Southampton at the age of 19. This move represented a significant step forward, giving him the opportunity to prove himself at a bigger club. However, despite spending six years at The Dell, he struggled to break into the first-team squad. For many players, such a prolonged period on the fringes could be disheartening, but Paton’s resolve remained intact. As a result, Southampton decided to sell the promising central defender to Aldershot, a club then managed by Jimmy Melia.
At Aldershot, Paton’s career took a positive turn. He quickly settled into life at the Recreation Ground, where he became an important figure in the squad. The experience of being part of a team that reached the fifth round of the FA Cup in the 1969-70 season was a highlight for him. Moreover, this period of his career was characterized by consistent performances that earned him respect from both teammates and supporters alike. It was at Aldershot where Paton truly established himself as a dependable and steady presence in central defence, even though his career had started in far more humble circumstances.
In addition, Paton’s career included a brief but notable spell with Margate, which provided him with another opportunity to showcase his talents. Playing for Margate may not have had the same prestige as his time at Aldershot or Southampton, but it highlighted his versatility and adaptability as a player. His ability to transition between different clubs and still maintain a level of professionalism was a testament to his commitment to the game. Yet, despite his dedication to football, Paton’s journey took a different turn once his playing days came to an end. However, unlike many footballers who remain involved in the game after retirement, Paton decided to pursue a different path. Returning to Scotland, he began working as a forklift driver for Hyster in Irvine, finding satisfaction in this new chapter of his life. While many former footballers choose coaching or punditry, Paton’s choice to work outside of football reflected a man who was as grounded as he was hardworking. He may have retired from professional football, but his work ethic continued to define him.
After semi-retiring in 1998, Paton still remained active in his community, taking on part-time work as a courier. Living in Kilwinning, Ayrshire, he continued to contribute to society in ways beyond the football pitch. Therefore, while Dave Paton’s football career may not have been filled with the glitz and glamour often associated with top-flight footballers, his journey tells the story of perseverance, resilience, and a grounded approach to life. Paton’s career was a reflection of many footballers of his era—those who may not have garnered widespread fame but played the game with dedication and pride. Undoubtedly, his story is one of perseverance, of making the most of opportunities, and of carving out a life both within and beyond the world of football.