Australia's football community is celebrating a remarkable milestone as the nation's oldest living Socceroo, Kevin O'Neill, reaches his 100th birthday in Cessnock, New South Wales.
A Lifetime Devoted to Football
The centenarian, who will mark the occasion with a family celebration, reflects on his deep passion for the beautiful game that defined his life. "It was my life. I loved it ever since I was a boy," Mr O'Neill shared, recalling his enduring affection for soccer. "I loved the physical side and I loved just playing."
His impressive career spanned decades, featuring 26 full international appearances and 10 test matches for Australia. Among his most cherished memories were international tours, including the 1950 journey to South Africa and the 1958 New Zealand tour.
International Glory and Local Legacy
Mr O'Neill's leadership qualities shone through as he captained Australia in two tests against Scottish side Hearts and frequently served as vice-captain during his international career. The pride of representing his country remained vivid in his memory. "It was an amazing feeling to play for my country," he recalled.
Despite his international achievements, Mr O'Neill maintained strong roots in Northern NSW football. He made an astonishing 512 first-grade appearances across multiple clubs including Cessnock, Kurri Kurri, West Wallsend, Lake Macquarie, Awaba and Weston between the 1940s and 1960s. His loyalty to Cessnock was particularly notable, with 410 appearances for his hometown club.
The football veteran also spent two seasons with Sydney club Prague, demonstrating his skills beyond regional competitions.
Family, Work and Secrets to Longevity
Beyond the football field, Mr O'Neill built a rich family life with his late wife June, to whom he was married for 69 years until her passing in 2019. The couple raised three children - Christine, Janette and Brian - and their legacy now includes seven grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
Janette Sullini described her parents as inseparable apart from her father's soccer travels. "They were always together," she noted.
Mr O'Neill balanced his football career with 44 years working as a coal miner, primarily at Aberdare and Awaba mines. His practical approach to life was evident in his simple philosophy: "You do what you have to do."
Now living independently in an over-55s village, the centenarian maintains his dignity and routine. "He showers and shaves every day. He doesn't cook like he used to, but still manages to organise his food," his daughter Janette explained.
His longevity secret combines physical fitness and family support. "Keeping myself fit and having a good family to look after me," Mr O'Neill attributed as key factors.
Even at 100, he keeps his mind active through his passion for harness racing. "He likes to have a daily bet. That keeps his mind active," Janette said, describing how he continues to study form guides and place bets through family assistance.
Though he no longer tends his beloved vegetable garden or mows the quarter-acre block he maintained until age 95, Mr O'Neill's spirit remains strong. His son Brian highlighted his father's clean living habits: "He's never been a drinker or smoker."
As Australia's oldest Socceroo celebrates this extraordinary milestone, he views his 100th birthday with characteristic humility: "I'm still here, so that's half the battle. I have a good family, that's the main thing."
