Age is just a number, and for Alan Camsell that couldn’t be more true. At 89, the Penrhyn Bay Strollers’ goalkeeper, and his teammates, reckon he’s the oldest shotstopper in the football league.
And now he’s been nominated in Sky Bet’s search for Real Football No.1s. The UK’s No.1 betting app is on the hunt for those at grassroots level who have made a special contribution to the beautiful game.
Alan says, “My wife told me when we had our first grandchild in our forties, ‘It’s alright being old, but don’t look old and don’t behave old.’ I’ve taken that to heart. “Problems are there to overcome.
I’ve had hip and knee replacements, cataract operations, and had a pacemaker put in just a few months ago. I’ve also got a hernia, but I just play on.”
“You’ve got to get up, get out and enjoy life.”
The golden-age goalie’s exploits on the pitch have attracted TV coverage worldwide, and his age-defying record remains unmatched. But incredibly, Alan didn’t first cross the white line until he was 39.
“I’ve always followed the game, but the family business meant working weekends. So when evening five-a-side came around, I jumped at the chance to play,” he says.
“I was a centre forward back then – lightning quick. But your lungs start catching up on you. I went into goal to get my breath back. “When the ball goes past me, I absolutely hate it. I blame everybody else but me!”
While most players wear shinpads and the occasional knee support, Alan has to go the extra mile to ensure he can play pain free during the walking football matches for his Welsh-based club.
“I have three-inch-thick foam pads around my hips to protect me when I’m diving – the tracksuit keeps it in place.”
Despite his health problems, Alan insists he’s got no intention of hanging up his boots any time soon. He adds, “People say, ‘You’re nearly 90’, but so what? I’ll play on forever – I’ve got no other plans.
“As long as the team’s prepared to put up with me, I’ll keep going.”
Mirror
