Tom Cillo: From Raiders Superfan to College Football Sensation at 58
Imagine strapping on a football helmet, not in your youth, but at an age when most people are planning retirement. That’s the extraordinary reality of Tom Cillo, a man whose life story is a powerful testament to resilience, second chances, and the unwavering pursuit of a lifelong dream. At 58 years old, Cillo isn’t just watching college football; he’s playing it for Lycoming College, a Division III program, and inspiring countless others along the way.
The Roots of a Raider’s Heart: A Pivotal Year
For Tom Cillo, 1984 was etched in memory for two profoundly different reasons. On one hand, it was a year of triumph for his beloved Los Angeles Raiders, clinching their third Super Bowl title with heroes like Jim Plunkett, Marcus Allen, and his all-time favorite, the legendary Howie Long. Cillo, a native of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, had been captivated by the Silver and Black since the mid-1970s, drawn in by the left-handed quarterback Ken Stabler, a kindred spirit.
Yet, 1984 also marked a challenging personal turning point. It was the year Cillo graduated high school, but it also symbolized the abrupt end of a chapter. He’d tried out for his high school football team as an underclassman, but a lack of commitment saw him quit after just two days. Instead, he veered onto a “different path,” one tragically overshadowed by substance abuse. Despite his talents as a basketball player, drugs and alcohol gradually consumed his focus.
A New Chapter: Overcoming Adversity and Finding Purpose
“It’s just the reality of the way I went at that time,” Cillo candidly shared. “I had wanted to play college football and basketball but clearly never followed through on it – until now.” His battle with substance abuse was a long and arduous one, culminating in a life-altering ultimatum from his wife: choose family and career, or alcohol. Cillo chose life. He sought help, overcame his addiction, and went on to dedicate 33 years to the city of Williamsport. After retiring, in a poignant full-circle moment, he became the head equipment manager at his former high school.
The Audacious Dream: Back to the Gridiron at 58
Despite the years, the lifelong dream of being a college athlete lingered. Cillo had been an avid powerlifter for years, maintaining a formidable physical presence. But the idea of returning to school and playing football at 58 seemed, even to him, like an impossible fantasy.
“There’s obviously a physical risk at my age,” he acknowledged. “There’s an academic risk at my age. It’s been over 41 years since I’ve been in a classroom. And there’s a huge financial risk. I’m just not sure.”
It was his physical trainer, working with Cillo in the weight room, who offered the crucial perspective. “He said, ‘Look, you can get hurt in the shower, you can get hurt on a set of steps. If you really want to do this, just do it. Go play.’ He said, ‘The only thing that has value in this life is time, and how are you going to use it?’ After that phone call I’m like, ‘OK, full steam ahead. I’m going for this.’”
Lycoming College: The Dream Becomes Reality
With renewed conviction, Cillo enrolled at Lycoming College, a Division III program right in Williamsport. The poetic irony wasn’t lost on him: he’s playing on the defensive line, just like his favorite Raider, Howie Long.
“He influenced my style, but at this point I’m not capable of pulling it off,” Cillo laughed. “I freakin’ love Howie. I loved his game. He was so quick and he could turn speed to power and he was just so violent. He was the ultimate football player for me.”
He’s quick to add with self-deprecating humor, “I’m telling you though, it’s tough in the trenches. I’ve joked that I’m the world’s most overaged and undersized nose tackle the game of football has ever seen.”
More Than Just a Player: An Inspiration to Many
Despite his playful self-criticism, Cillo’s commitment and progress during his “freshman” season have earned him the profound respect and admiration of his much younger teammates and coaches. “You don’t expect to get like an older brother going into your junior year,” teammate Terrance Oliver shared. “You think everybody coming in will be younger than you. But no, he’s been really nice to everybody. He brings the energy that we needed.”
His story quickly resonated beyond the college campus. After being gifted tickets on The Today Show, Cillo soon found himself preparing to travel to Philadelphia to see his beloved Las Vegas Raiders take on the Eagles. While he never anticipated such national media attention, he hopes his ongoing journey continues to encourage others to pursue their own aspirations.
Cillo’s Enduring Message: Live Your Life
“I just wanted a change in life and I thought, ‘I’m going to go for it. I’m going to go live,’” Cillo affirmed. “Too many times in life I think people hold themselves back from doing things they really want to give a go at or have a dream or desire for.”
His message is clear and powerful: “And I’m like, ‘No. I’m going to go out and I’m going to live and I’m going to make a run at this.’ And I never dreamed it would resonate with so many people.” Tom Cillo’s remarkable story serves as a vibrant reminder that it’s truly never too late to chase your dreams, overcome your past, and embrace a life fully lived.
