1972 Anthony, Neil
Biographical Text
Remaining in the game as an administrator, Neil served in a variety of capacities for both Sidmouth Town and the Devon and Exeter League.
Neil kindly supplied the Grecian Archive with an outline of his time in football and takes up the story:
"Represented Exeter and East Devon Schools as a 14-year-old in 1970 when we played North Devon at Bideford, South Devon at Plainmoor and West Devon in Plymouth. At the age of 15 made my senior football debut for Sidmouth Town as a substitute in the Exeter and District League Premier Division, going on as a substitute and scoring the winner!
Aged 16, Tony Long (Exeter City scout) approached me and asked if I would go and play for Exeter City in their new Western League team in 1972. Played over 20 games that season but, although asked to stay another season, transport problems meant I was unable to accept that invitation. Tony stated that City would be keeping my FA Registration and suggested that I gain experience elsewhere in the hope of returning to St James Park.
I had a season with Chard Town before again transport became an issue. A couple of seasons with Bideford in the Western League with limited appearances: a season with Ilminster in the Western League where we were all released from our contracts half way through the season because of lack of finances Then onto Ottery St Mary where I made around 250 appearance in the Western League over six or seven seasons. During these times I also turned out for my local club Sidmouth. Had to retire from playing at the age of 27 because of a serious leg condition when I took up the sport of golf.
I have kept my hand in with local football and was secretary and treasurer of Sidmouth Town for around 20 years. I was secretary/treasurer of the Ottery Cups, Morrison Bell, Grandisson and Golesworthy Cup from 2000 and then became general secretary of the Devon and Exeter Football League as well as a Devon FA council member."
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