Williamsburg, Pennsylvania – In an inspiring story unfolding in the world of college football, Tom Cillo is showing that dreams don’t have an expiration date. At just 58 years old, Cillo has secured a spot as a freshman defensive lineman for the Lycoming College Warriors. By doing so, he aims to become the oldest player to grace a college football field in the NCAA since 2009.
Cillo, who stands tall at 6 feet and weighs 227 pounds, is not just any athlete; he is a champion powerlifter who set the world record for the deadlift in the 55-59 age group, lifting an impressive 580 pounds in 2024. His journey has been anything but easy. During his high school years, he played basketball but made a quick exit from football due to personal challenges stemming from substance abuse. “I started doing things at 15 years old that I probably shouldn’t have at that age,” Cillo remarked, reflecting on his earlier choices.
Despite a tumultuous past involving struggles with drugs and alcohol, Cillo has turned his life around. After years of commitment to family and health, he’s returning to the sport he once left behind. If Cillo steps on the field in a game, he will officially become the oldest player to participate in an NCAA game since Tom Thompson, who played as a kicker for Austin College at the age of 61.
Adding to his remarkable comeback, Cillo recently signed an NIL deal with a popular pain relief product, making him the oldest college football player to secure such a contract. He’ll receive an undisclosed amount along with a four-year supply of the product. “I’m living proof that you are never too old to chase your dream,” Cillo stated. He went on to express his dedication: “At 58, I’m still lacing up and competing, showing that passion doesn’t age.” With a clear nod to his tough journey, he added, “Grit beats pain every time.”
