Van Gelder was a forward, reported to have been from Scotland, who appeared for Exeter City reserves in 1946/47 after previous experience with Notts County. 

Turned out for Exeter City reserves in the Southern League against Barry Town in September 1946 when he was reported to have been a professional with Notts County. Also said to have played wartime football for Fulham and Burnleyy, he later turned out for several clubs in the North West including Macclesfield.