The top 10 oldest college football players still playing
In the world of college football, age is often considered a limiting factor, but sometimes players continually prove that passion and experience can overcome any barrier. In the list of the 10 oldest college football players, we will explore the inspirational stories of those who are contributing despite having passed the age of 30, 40, and even 50. Join kingsoccertips.com to delve into the world of these “veterans” to discover the power of their passion and determination.
The oldest college football players today
1. Cam McCormick
As he is about to enter his fifth season with the Miami Hurricanes, Cam McCormick has created a shock wave in the college football community by deciding to return to the field, despite having turned 26 years old this past April. McCormick began his career with the Oregon Ducks, alongside future NFL player Jalen Hurts..
Through many challenges and injuries, McCormick was absent during the 2019 and 2020 seasons and continued to have problems with an Achilles injury in 2021. After those difficulties, the NCAA accepted his request to join the eighth and ninth seasons in 2022.
2. Jordy Sandy
Jordy Sandy, born in 1991, originally from Traralgon, Victoria, Australia, is one of the oldest college football players, but behind every kick is a journey full of hardship and determination. The family has always played an important role in Sandy’s life, with constant support from his parents and three brothers.
Sandy began his football career after working at a paper factory for some time and then decided to embark on his dream path. Through his unremitting efforts, he received a scholarship opportunity from TCU, thanks to recognition and appreciation from coach Gary Patterson. Since then, Sandy has been with the TCU Horned Frogs football team, bringing with him a mission and relentless determination on the field.
3. Hugh Robertson
When it comes to football, fans often remember the creative and talented players in attack. However, the important role of defensive players in every game cannot be denied. Hugh Robertson, who plays for the Illinois Fighting Illini, is also among the oldest college football players, demonstrating that experience and skill go hand in hand.
Originally from Melbourne, Australia, Robertson not only makes an impact with his skills on the field but also with his closeness and good communication. His personality, eloquence, and ability to communicate easily made him an indispensable part of the team, attracting interest and affection from Illinois fans. This proves that the role of defensive players is equally important in the success of a team.
4. Luke Larsen
Luke Larsen, the oldest college football player on the team, is preparing for his third season in the football program. The Australian joined the Buccaneers in 2020, a difficult year, as the impact of the pandemic did not count towards anyone’s eligibility. Through a challenging first year, Larsen gained a valuable amount of experience and eventually won a spot on the first team in 2021, becoming one of the top backups to Jonn Young.
In the words of head coach Mike Houston, ‘I thought Luke showed incredible resilience,’ Houston said after an intense practice session on Wednesday. Larsen’s confidence and determination are not only a source of encouragement for him but also a source of motivation for the entire team.
5. Matt Ganyard
At 34 years old, Matt Ganyard of UVA’s football team is considered the oldest D1 college player still active this season, according to UVAToday. As one of the oldest college football players, he brings a wealth of experience to the team. A father of two, he is currently studying at UVA’s Darden School of Business and graduated from a similar university in 2011.
He was on the football team during his early college years but was dropped in 2009. He then went on to serve in the United States Marine Corps as a helicopter pilot. After completing his military service, he returned to Virginia to study at Darden, and things picked up from there.
6. James Stefanou
At 33 years old, James Stefanou of the University of Colorado Boulder is known as one of the oldest college football players, remaining active until 2020, before he left the team. Hailing from Australia, Stefanou had no prior experience playing organized soccer in the United States before joining his college team in 2017.
He gained some experience playing American football through ProKick Australia, a program that helps Australian athletes develop the skills necessary to transition to playing in American colleges and the NFL. Although Stefanou did not grow up in an American football environment, he has always been a true athlete. He played for and was a member of the U19 team, development team, and reserve team for Australia’s Olympic team.
7. Tim Frisby
Although not among the oldest college football players, Tim Frisby began his college football career at the age of 39 when he participated in the University of South Carolina tryouts in 2004. Before that, Frisby served in the United States Army Green Berets during the First Gulf War and in Kosovo.
After spending time in the military, Frisby returned to football and joined the University of South Carolina as a wide receiver for the team. Despite turning 40, his playing career still attracted attention, and Frisby even had plans to turn his life story into a movie. As of 2014, Frisby is working as a personal trainer at Gold’s Gym, continuing to positively impact the surrounding community.
8. Bob Schembre
Although not much information has been published about Bob Schembre, his story is a testament to his boundless passion and strong will. In 2008, when he was 51 years old (about to turn 52), Schembre joined the University of Westminster’s football team.
Schembre’s two sons had previously played football for Westminster, and the initial meeting with the coach was to discuss one of his sons. However, instead of negotiating with other players, Schembre decided to join the team himself. Thanks to his perseverance and strong will, he was given a chance by the coach and officially became part of the team. It is a testament to the power of passion and determination to overcome all barriers and pursue one’s dreams regardless of age.
9. Tom Thompson
Tom Thompson, father of the famous football player Joe Thomas Jr. of the Dallas Cowboys, made history by becoming one of the oldest college football players to ever play in NCAA Division I football.
In 2016, at the age of 55, Thomas suited up for South Carolina State University and participated in the game, capturing a memorable moment when he carried the ball three yards. His decision to participate in football was not only about pursuing his passion but also about sharing joy and special experiences with his son.
Although he had been a promising running back in high school, Thomas Sr. never gave up his passion. When his son decided to pursue a college career, Thomas Sr. decided to join his son in college football, marking a meaningful and memorable action in the sporting event.
10. Mike Flynt
Mike Flynt is one of those living monuments to perseverance and endless patience. Before his record was broken in 2009, when Tom Thompson became the oldest college football player, Flynt made his mark with his extraordinary efforts. As one of the oldest college football players at the time, Flynt’s commitment to the game was a testament to his enduring dedication.
At the age of 59, Flynt decided to re-enroll at his alma mater, Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas, for the opportunity to play soccer for another year. This determination stems not only from a passion for football but also from regret over the years lost when he was removed from the team before his final year of college.
Flynt is not only an older player, but also a talented strength and conditioning coach. His determination and constant fighting spirit helped him overcome all challenges and continue to pursue his passion for football even after reaching the age of sixty. It is truly an admirable story of perseverance and never giving up.
Conclusion
Thus, the oldest college football players are not only remarkable individuals with incredible age and experience but also symbols of patience, strength, and endless passion for this exciting sport. They have proven that age is no barrier to their enthusiasm and commitment, and through it, they inspire the younger generations and celebrate the relentless fighting spirit in modern football. At the same time, their stories also demonstrate the power of passion and determination in life, both on the field and in every aspect of life.
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