KTSM News – Americas High School trainer recalls teammate’s unlikely return to college football at 59

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) – It’s never too late to finish what you started, according to Mike Flynt, the oldest college football player who rejoined his alma mater at the age of 59.

His former teammate and native El Pasoan shares what it’s like to see their team’s story shared on the big screen.

Fernando Acosta, now a healthcare provider and athletic trainer at Americas High School, started his football career right at his current place of work — as an outside linebacker for the Trailblazers.

Fernando Acosta as a football player at Americas High School. Courtesy: Fernando Acosta

He continued playing in college for Sul Ross State University, just three hours southeast of El Paso in Alpine, Texas.

In 2007, Acosta had been promoted from outside linebacker to captain when his team got an unconventional addition.

Flynt, who was 59 years old at the time, joined the Sull Ross State Lobos, his alma mater, becoming the oldest college football player in history.

Flynt had been kicked off the team back in his day and wanted to return to make amends.

He wrote about his story in a book, “The Senior,” that is now waiting for its release on the big screens in September.

Acosta’s character is also featured and played by Chris Becerra, while Flynt is portrayed by the Hollywood vet Michael Chiklis in this feature film.

Acosta recalled his first reaction when Flynt had joined the Lobos.

“Hearing about a 59-year-old coming back was, I didn’t know what to expect. I didn’t know what to say. Everybody was a little bit of, like, confused about what was going on, but, you know, first hearing about it and then first seeing him, it was a different story. Just the way he was. When you first meet him, you know, stocked up and, you know, was able to run, able to hit. It was like respect, big time respect,” he said.

Fernando Acosta (Left) and Michael Flynt (Right). Courtesy: Fernando Acosta

He bonded with Flynt during their time on the team and said he had a major impact on his life, as much as he had on Flynt’s.

“Becoming a health provider, treating athletes and helping them get on the field safely. Seeing him play and play safely it was like motivation. I wanted to share that to all the athletes and everybody else who felt like they couldn’t keep playing,” he said.

Acosta is looking forward to attending the film premiere in Fort Worth on September 8, while the film hits the big screens on September 19.

Watch full trailer here.

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