EMMO’S GOT THE HUNGER TO STEP UP AT 37
ARMY Staff Sergeant Keith Emmerson is not a man to shirk a challenge – and holds no fears of a two-level jump to Step 2 at the age of 37!
Emmerson, former captain of the British Army team, has spent the last five seasons at the likes of Farnborough, Taunton Town and Winchester City, juggling his football with a hefty workload and lengthy trips to and from his Somerset home.
But a relocation to Warminster has now freed up time for Emmerson to focus the next chapter of his Non-League career, with Hungerford Town.
New Crusaders boss Danny Robinson has always been an admirer of superfit Emmerson, who has played in every single position in his career.
And the evergreen soldier insists he will not fazed by life back in National League South – and says he’s as determined as ever to help bring success to the cash-strapped Crusaders after a difficult season last time out.
“I’m always up for a challenge,” Emmerson told The NLP. “Winchester City was good for me last year but I felt comfortable at Step 4 and want to push myself further.
“I’ve known Danny a long time and when he got the job at Hungerford and got on the phone, I knew it was the right move for me. Danny has worked with military players before and understands the commitment and sacrifices we have to make. It’s the perfect fit and gives me the chance to prove myself.”
Emmerson says he only need look as far as his former Farnborough teammate Jamie Cureton for inspiration with the new striker still scoring goals at the age of 44.
“I’ve never been one to let age affect me and I only have to look at Jamie to show what can be achieved,” he added. “He demonstrates the driving force to keep going and challenge yourself.
“There’s no point being comfortable in life as there’s nothing to look forward to.”