Jamie Cureton, a celebrated figure in English football, has made history by becoming the first player to score in all ten tiers of the English football pyramid. The former Norwich City striker, now 50 years old, has proven that age is merely a number as he continues to pursue his passion for the game.
Earlier this month, Cureton returned to competitive football, signing with Kings Park Rangers, a step six club in the Eastern Counties League Division One North. In a thrilling debut, he came off the bench to score a stunning volley, contributing to a 4-1 victory against Dussindale & Hellesdon Rovers. This goal not only secured the win for his team but also marked a significant milestone in his long and illustrious career. Read more about Kvistgaarden Returns as Canaries Target Vital Points Against Swans.
The match took place at The Nest in Norwich, close to Carrow Road, where Cureton first made his mark as a young forward. Reflecting on his debut for Norwich City, which occurred exactly 30 years ago in a 3-0 win against Chelsea, he expressed the joy of scoring in familiar territory. "I could have been at Wembley - anywhere - and I would have still celebrated in the exact same way," Cureton told BBC Sport after the match. "It was a great feeling. I've just loved scoring goals. Each one is as special as the next one."
Cureton's extensive career has seen him play for numerous clubs, including Bristol Rovers, Reading, Exeter, QPR, and Colchester United. His two stints at Norwich City resulted in an impressive tally of 23 goals from 96 appearances. Despite an already commendable list of achievements, which includes multiple promotions and over 1,000 games played, Cureton remains driven.
"I’m still about four or five goals away from 400, so that's one I'd like to chase," he shared. "The club I'm at, we're trying to get promotions, so that's a big aim. I've always said, as long as I'm fit enough—and I'm not letting anyone down—then I would still play. I'm just playing for fun, because I can and I still enjoy it and love it. To top it off with scoring as well is a bonus."
Cureton’s recent accomplishment stands as a testament to his enduring skill and unwavering enthusiasm for football. As he continues to pursue new goals and aspirations, the football community watches with admiration, eager to see what this remarkable player will achieve next.