{
  "id": 8304063,
  "title": "'Never too old': 83-year-old footballer still getting a kick",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/never-too-old-83-year-old-footballer-still-getting-a-kick-8304063",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-18T20:21:36.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News",
    "slug": "abc-news",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-19/83-year-old-footballer-afl-masters-footy-south-australia/107124310"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Robert Johnstone, an 83-year-old resident of South Australia's Riverland, continues to play Aussie Rules football, despite being a late starter in his 70s. Nicknamed \"Robbie J\" by his teammates, Johnstone remains dedicated to the sport he has fallen in love with. Living in Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland before settling in the Riverland, Johnstone only began playing football in his later years and now considers it a passion. Playing for the Riverland Superdogs, a team in South Australia's AFL Masters league, which permits players aged 35 and older, Johnstone holds the title of the oldest player in the league. The team's president, Rob Romeo, notes that Johnstone has grown into a more refined player, even though his teammates are usually quicker. Despite the physical demands of the game, Johnstone remains eager to participate and enjoys the camaraderie it brings. He encourages anyone over 35 seeking community involvement and exercise to try the AFL Masters league, as it not only promotes physical health but also aids in mental well-being. The league has been embraced by women who previously had limited opportunities to play football, and Johnstone's love for the game is evident in his unique mullet, which he changes to South Australia's iconic colors for the annual AFL Masters state carnival.",
  "summary": "Most people wouldn't take up a new sport after turning 70, but one footballer is proving age is just a number.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "ABC News AU",
        "title": "'Never too old': 83-year-old footballer still getting a kick",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/never-too-old-83-year-old-footballer-still-getting-a-kick",
        "published": "2026-09-18T20:21:36.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}