Justin Buzzard, a 48-year-old father of three, has officially made his college football debut, taking the field as a freshman defensive end for the San Jose City College Jaguars. His participation marks a significant return to the sport three decades after his initial attempt to play at the collegiate level was sidelined.
According to ABC7, Buzzard’s journey to the roster began with a personal evaluation after his son encouraged him to pursue the opportunity. Having previously been redshirted at Whitworth University in Washington 30 years ago—where he sustained an injury that prevented him from playing—Buzzard weighed the physical risks against the potential rewards. Ultimately, he committed to a rigorous training regimen, including weightlifting and physical conditioning, to gain 10 pounds of muscle and prepare for the demands of the game.
Three weeks into the season, Buzzard has already begun contributing to the team, including recording a pass breakup during recent play. While he acknowledges the physical toll of the sport, noting that his hamstrings are frequently under strain and he remains generally “sore,” he maintains that the experience of competing has been rewarding. The athlete now balances his training with family life, frequently sharing football techniques and tips with his two sons who currently play high school football.
Follow-up Questions
What led Buzzard to return to college football at age 48?
He was encouraged by his son after hearing stories of other older men participating in college sports, leading him to assess his physical readiness
How did he prepare physically for the season?
He engaged in a consistent weightlifting and conditioning program, resulting in a gain of 10 pounds of muscle
Perspectives
The Student-Athlete Perspective vs The Family Perspective
Story lens
The Student-Athlete Perspective
For Buzzard, the decision was a calculated risk involving a pros-and-cons list. His motivation stems from a desire to prove personal capability despite age, balancing the physical soreness against the achievement of returning to a competitive collegiate environment
The Family Perspective
The involvement of his sons, who play high school football, creates a multi-generational dynamic. By trading tips and techniques, the family bond is reinforced through shared athletic goals, providing Buzzard with both moral support and a practical environment to refine his skills
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Justin Buzzard, a 48-year-old father of three, has joined the San Jose City College Jaguars as a freshman defensive end, returning to the sport after 30 years.
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