In November 1897 they were admitted to the Scottish Football League for the 1897–98 season, following the dismissal of Renton, with the club taking over their previous four results and remaining fixtures for the season.
A short list of 15 was drawn up and from them 3 people were to be interviewed, James Collins, who was Secretary of the Glasgow Junior League, Peter Hodge the former Secretary/Manager of Raith Rovers and Alex Raisbeck an ex-Scotland player and then playing for Partick Thistle.
Raisbeck was chosen and would take up his duties in May 1914 when the season officially closed.
McAndrew managed arguably the greatest Hamilton team when they finished 4th in the 1934–35 season, their highest ever placing, and were Scottish Cup finalists.
John Lambie has the best record in terms of league trophies; having won the Scottish First Division twice.