Lycoming’s Tom Cillo proves age is no barrier to chasing dreams.
At 58 years old, most people are planning retirement. Tom Cillo is planning his college football debut. The Williamsport native, who once ran half-marathons and competed in powerlifting, will now line up on the defensive line for Lycoming College. It’s not just a bold decision, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime story of perseverance and passion.
Cillo graduated high school in 1984 but never went to college. That changed this fall. Encouraged by a close friend, he applied to Lycoming, enrolled as a freshman majoring in criminal justice, and made the Warriors’ roster. “The spirit of competition has never left me,” Cillo said.
Three moments stand out in his remarkable climb:
• Support from his community: Teammates, coaches, and even fans decades older have rallied behind him, inspired by his pursuit.
• Respect from his peers: “He’s not your average 58-year-old. He’s out running sprints at five in the morning,” said Lycoming defensive back Mario Samony.
• Belief from his coach: Head coach Mike Clark said Cillo’s strength, leadership, and life experience will “make our teams better.”
For Cillo, the game is about far more than football, it’s about proving that it’s never too late to chase a dream. “It’ll be one of my greatest challenges in my life,” he said. “But I’m prepared to give it everything I got.”
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Source link : https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/news/58-year-old-making-college-football-roster/43d04d39cfb2d2b237fb6065
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Publish date : 2025-08-23 21:23:00
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