In the quiet town of Suffield, Connecticut, where well-worn cleats still meet fresh-cut grass, a group of men over 40 continue to live out their passion for soccer. At the heart of this enduring team is 62-year-old Coach Mark Cervione—a steady leader, inspiring coach and central figure in a story that spans decades of dedication to the beautiful game.
Mark Cervione holding the ball stands with members of the “Over 40 and Over 50” soccer team (and kids).
The Suffield Over-40 Soccer Club took shape in 2004, forged from the bond of players who had previously competed together on an over-30 team in East Granby. Driven by their love of the sport and their desire to keep competing, a few core figures—John Merrill, Tom Gaffney, Raj Gosh and Coach Cervione—came together to start something new. What they built was more than a team; it was a legacy.
While they started on Cervione Field, the team now plays their home games on the Suffield High School turf field—a fitting upgrade and a place many consider Coach Cervione’s second home. The transition symbolizes not just growth, but a continuation of the deep connection between Cervione, the sport and the Suffield community.
Coach Mark Cervione brought to the team a wealth of experience and a rare commitment to the sport. Over the course of his career, he coached club soccer for 12 years, led high school girls in the summer league, and spent 21 years coaching high school soccer as a JV Coach, Assistant, and Varsity Head Coach. He also brought a fierce personal dedication to the field—continuing to play even after undergoing two ACL replacements and now facing the possibility of a knee replacement. His resilience and passion have become the spirit of the Suffield team.
However, the story doesn’t end with the over-40 team. In recent years, the group has grown into something even bigger: the creation of a new Over-50 team, offering yet another way for players to stay in the game. The expansion reflects not just aging players, but an enduring spirit—proof that soccer doesn’t have to stop with time.
The team holds Wednesday night practices under the lights, where the focus is on fitness, fun and sharpening skills. Practices are family-friendly, and fathers are encouraged to bring their kids—many of whom end up playing alongside or scrimmaging with the adults, passing the love of the game to the next generation.
This is a men’s league, and both the Over-40 and Over-50 Suffield teams are actively looking for new players who are passionate about the sport and ready to be part of a supportive and tight-knit soccer community. If you’re interested in joining, reach out to Matt Auchy at mattauchy@gmail.com. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or dusting off your cleats after years away, we always welcome new teammates.
The Suffield teams are living proof: no matter your age, if you’ve got the heart, there’s still a place for you on the field.