Goalkeeper Mark Scott has officially announced his retirement after 19 years of competitive football.
In a post on social media, the stopper – who has represented Slough Town, Bracknell Town and Ascot United in Berkshire – said: “People are going to joke that this is my 5th retirement but unfortunately this is it!
“I’ve been so fortunate to have met so many wonderful people along the way and gutted it’s not ended on a high!”
The 35-year-old goalkeeper came through the youth ranks at Swindon Town and signed professional forms with the Robins in 2008. He enjoyed a series of loans with the likes of Thatcham Town and Hungerford Town and helped Swindon Supermarine reach the First Round Proper of the FA Cup for the first time in the club’s history.
On leaving Swindon, Scott played 95 times for Slough before a serious neck injury in a game against Basingstoke Town in 2017 curtailed his promising Rebels career.
Related: Mark Scott ‘apology’ as he heads to Hungerford Town
Returning to action, Scott was an important part of Bracknell Town’s resurgence in the Isthmian League and went on to play for a number of club’s including a return to Hungerford as well as Ascot, Basingstoke and Uxbridge.
In the summer, he joined Corsham Town but has now confirmed he will retire with immediate effect on medical grounds.
Mark Scott’s full retirement statement
After 19 years playing competitive football, the time has finally come to call it a day. My first professional squad number was 36, and I always said I wanted to retire at 36. Although I’ve probably said “one more year” about five times now, this time I actually mean it.
Unfortunately, following medical advice, I’ve been told I need to retire from football and impact sports. I’m gutted I couldn’t go out on a high or on my own terms, but sometimes the decision gets made for you.
Football has given me some incredible memories and, more importantly, introduced me to some amazing people who have become some of my best friends. I’ve always felt so much support from teammates, coaches, friends and family, especially through some pretty horrific injuries over the years.
I’ll always keep a close eye on the teams I’ve been lucky enough to represent.
This is officially it. And yes… I actually mean it this time.
The Football in Berkshire team would like to wish Mark all the best in his retirement, thanks for the moments and the memories!
