Athlete Builder Ep. 118. Breaking Barriers: A 58-Year-Old Freshman Football Player, Tom Cillo

In this conversation, Tom Cillo shares his unique journey as a college football player at the age of 58, discussing the challenges he faced both on the field and in the classroom. He reflects on his training regimen, the importance of teamwork, and the academic pressures of returning to school after a long hiatus. Tom emphasizes the significance of commitment, discipline, and the support of his teammates and coaches. He also touches on his aspirations for the future, including potential NIL deals and public speaking opportunities, while offering valuable advice to young athletes.   Takeaways Tom's journey to college football began later in life. He faced significant challenges in both football and academics. Training and conditioning were crucial for his success. Learning the playbook was a steep learning curve. Building relationships with teammates was essential. Time management was key to balancing academics and athletics. He emphasizes the importance of rest and study habits. Tom's NIL deals highlight the changing landscape of college sports. He aims to inspire others through his story. Tom's passion for football and fitness drives his journey. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 02:52College Football Insights 05:39Fan Loyalty and Team Dynamics 08:55Transitioning to College Life 12:07Training and Conditioning for Football 15:08Building Confidence and Team Culture 18:12Academic Challenges and Time Management 20:55Support Roles and Team Contributions 23:56Nutrition and Recovery in Sports 26:50Future Aspirations and Career Goals 30:14Advice for Young Athletes 33:05Closing Thoughts and Reflections   Our podcast links. Athlete Builder on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Athlete-Builder Athlete Builder on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/34QCcodvAqAgj7iwk3tdrj Athlete Builder on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/athlete-builder/id1715521920 Athlete Builder on Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5583cce-62bc-4611-ab54-ff367f41632d/athlete-builder Our social media links. Athlete Builder on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athlete_builder/ Athlete Builder on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1athletebuilder Athlete Builder on X: https://x.com/AthleteBuilder Athlete Builder on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@athlete.builder Athlete Builder web page: https://athlete-builder.com Athlete Builder e-mail: [email protected] Our links to services/products. Buy the Athlete Builder book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/9xiGOWQ Buy the Athlete Builder book on Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/athlete-builder-jim-beebe/1146362511?ean=9798218498382 Buy the Athlete Builder book in bulk at: https://bookpal.com/athlete-builder-the-blueprint-to-build-champion-athletes-9798218498382 Buy the Athlete Builder planner on Amazon: (COMING SOON!) Take the Athlete Builder course: https://athlete-builder.com/courses Schedule a time for a Game Plan Session for you to get started: https://link.closersoftware.com/widget/bookings/ab-gameplansession Book for speaking engagements: https://athlete-builder.com/speaking Buy Athlete Builder apparel and swag: https://athlete-builder.printify.me/products Register for the Athlete Builder newsletter: https://athlete-builder.com/newsletter Read the Athlete Builder blog: https://athlete-builder.com/blog Train at Unbreakable Athletics Academy in Plainfield, IN: https://unbreakableathleticsacademy.com Support our charities: the military, breast cancer, and disadvantaged youth: https://theufoundation.square.site