A 54-year-old Dorking Wanderers supporter will make his debut between the posts on Saturday after the National League South side were left without a goalkeeper.
The club confirmed that long-time fan Terry Dunn, a “multiple promotion winner with several local clubs”, will step in for their home match against AFC Totton after first-choice keeper Harrison Foulkes suffered a spleen injury that is expected to keep him out for up to four weeks.
Dunn, who last played competitive football 28 years ago, admitted the call-up came as a surprise but vowed to give everything for his club.
“Playing in goal is like riding a bike – you never forget it. I still regularly play walking football,” Dunn said.
“As a Wanderers fan, no one will be trying harder than me to keep a clean sheet on Saturday.”
ICYMI – Local Goalkeeping legend, Terry ‘Big Tel’ Dunn puts the gloves on one last time for the Wanderers this Saturday vs AFC Totton – 3pm KO.
At age 54, Terry will be the oldest player to ever play for the club. pic.twitter.com/w1PuStS2Ob— Dorking Wanderers FC (@DorkingWDRS) September 4, 2025
Wanderers, currently sitting 11th in the table, revealed that they were unable to secure a short-term replacement in time for the weekend but plan to sign a new keeper on loan by Monday. That leaves Dunn with the chance to fulfil a dream and represent his club.
Manager and chairman Marc White praised Dunn’s commitment, even if his fitness is not what it once was.
“In an era where passion comes in low quantities, what Terry lacks in mobility, he’ll make up for in heart. For one game, we’re just going to have to get on with it,” White said.