San Jose, Calif. – On Aug. 29, 48‑year‑old pastor Justin Buzzell fulfilled a lifelong ambition by suiting up for San Jose City College’s football team. Wearing jersey No. 48, the father of three took the field as a defensive lineman, completing a comeback that began after an injury ended his own college football career thirty years ago.
From injury to inspiration
Buzzell’s original college football dreams were cut short in the early 1990s when a serious injury forced him to leave the sport. Decades later, his eldest son, Cru, encouraged him to revisit the idea. “I just thought that immediately sounded crazy,” Buzzell told The Mercury News. “The idea had never occurred to me at all. It sounded crazy. But within about 30 seconds, I thought, ‘Maybe I should give this a shot.’”
After weighing the pros and cons – “the pro list was super long. The con list was, ‘What if I got hurt?’” – Buzzell began a rigorous training regimen. He added roughly 10 pounds of muscle and worked closely with San Jose City College’s coaching staff, who agreed to give him a chance to compete.
Family ties on the field
Buzzell’s two younger sons, Hudson and Gus, already play high‑school football, while Cru, a former high‑school player, now runs hurdles at the collegiate level. The family’s shared love of the game created a supportive environment, with Buzzell trading tips and techniques with his sons throughout the season.
“You prepare a lot in football to just play a little,” Buzzell said to the Bay Area News Group after his debut. “So it was great to actually get a rep. It felt good. I’m hungry for more.”
College debut
On the day of his debut, Buzzell participated in two plays during the second half of the game. Though his time on the field was brief, the moment resonated with teammates, coaches, and spectators alike. The college’s athletic department highlighted his story as an example of perseverance and community spirit.
Buzzell celebrated his 48th birthday on Sept. 14, just weeks before stepping onto the gridiron. His story has drawn attention from local media outlets, including ABC News and the Bay Area News Group, underscoring the inspirational power of faith, family, and determination.
Community response
Fans and fellow students praised Buzzell’s courage, noting that his presence on the team reinforces the college’s commitment to inclusivity and lifelong learning. “Seeing a pastor and a dad of three out there reminds us that it’s never too late to chase a dream,” said one teammate.
Buzzell’s journey also highlights the role of local colleges in providing opportunities for non‑traditional students and community members to engage in athletics, fostering a sense of belonging that extends beyond the classroom.
Looking ahead
While Buzzell has not confirmed how many more games he will play, he expressed a desire to continue training and contributing to the team. “I’m hungry for more,” he repeated, indicating that his football story is far from over.
His experience serves as a reminder that age and past setbacks need not limit one’s aspirations, especially when supported by faith, family, and a community that values perseverance.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
