Elderly Football Team Defies Age to Play Passionately for Decades
A group of elderly footballers in Malta has defied the odds and their own age to continue playing the sport they love for over three decades. Despite health problems and the passing years, these passionate players have remained committed to their weekly matches, keeping their tight-knit team alive.
The team, with an average age of 66, meets twice a week to play friendly matches, reliving their youth and staying active. The camaraderie and shared love for football have kept this group of men together, as they refuse to let age hinder their passion.
The story began in 1991 when retired footballer Tony Callus gathered with friends and veteran players at Memories, a bar in Paceville, to discuss their future with the sport. And so, the Memories football team was born, with the bar sponsoring their football kits. They started competing in the weekly Sunday league known as GIDA.
Over the past 32 years, Memories has become an integral part of these players’ lives. They have never missed a season, participating in league matches while also organizing their own friendly games. Tony Callus, now 78, proudly recalls the team’s long-standing presence in the league, even as he watches from the sidelines due to his health.
However, the road hasn’t been without obstacles. Many of the team members have faced health issues, including heart attacks and surgeries. But their love for the game keeps them going. Anton Camilleri, 76, had a heart attack four years ago and even had a pacemaker implanted afterward. Yet, he sees no end in sight for his post-professional football career, as his cardiologist encourages him to continue playing.
Julian Holland, 71, fondly remembers when a friend asked to join the group, claiming to be in fit condition to play. Julian jokingly replied, You can’t play here unless you have an ailment. Their dedication to the sport is evident, and they play twice a week, barely allowing any recovery time between Monday and Thursday matches.
On a summer Monday evening, the team takes to the Melita FC synthetic turf in Pembroke for another match. They greet each other, some stretching and others putting on leg braces. As they prepare for the game, the banter is lighthearted but competitive. They divide into two teams, Black and White, chosen by a different player each week. The match begins, and their youthful spirits come alive as they chase the ball, shouting for fouls and handballs.
The hour-long game is intense, with no water breaks or half-time pauses. These dedicated athletes give their all, even though it’s a friendly match. The competitive spirit is palpable as they challenge each other with cries of handball and foul. But at the end of the day, they know it’s all about the joy of playing together.
With a final score of 3-1 in favor of the Black team, the players gather a sweaty but satisfied group. They head to a restaurant to share some food and drinks, cherishing the social aspect of their meetings. Winning or losing doesn’t matter as much as the bond they’ve formed through football.
For these men, football is more than just a game. It’s a way to stay active, maintain their friendship, and live a happy life. Ray Azzopardi, 69, emphasizes the importance of remaining active for a healthy and fulfilling life. Tony Callus agrees, highlighting the team’s commitment to the sport and, more importantly, to each other. Football has brought them together, allowing them to forge lasting connections beyond the sport itself.
As they continue to gather, rain or shine, these dedicated footballers prove that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your passions. With their unwavering spirit and love for the game, these geezers defy expectations and inspire others to never give up on what they love.
