FORMER England international, Steve Hunt, can boast one of those lives so many can only dream of — being a pro footballer.
Birmingham-born Steve, who has been living on the Island for more than 20 years, played with distinction for his boyhood club Aston Villa and fellow Midlands clubs Coventry City and WBA.
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But Steve’s biggest success was when he crossed the pond to play for the New York Cosmos — arguably the most famous brand in world football at that time.
Steve was a hit with the Cosmos — playing alongside some of the greats of world football, such as World Cup winners Pele, Carlos Alberto and Franz Beckenbauer.
He won three Soccerbowl Championships in the United States, between 1978 and 1982.
His experience raised his game and, on his return to England when he joined Coventry in 1978, he went on to win England honours — the pinnacle of his career.
Steve, 65 — who has just published an autobiography which focuses on his amazing time with the Cosmos — went on to coach.
Latterly, Steve managed Cowes Sports, who play in the Sydenhams Wessex Premier.
He is currently working as a school caretaker.
Steve has opened the door to his career, its highlights and motivations by kindly answering a series of questions for the County Press.
When did you first start playing football and what attracted you to it? A: Started playing as soon as I could walk. I loved kicking a ball about.
What has been the highlight of your career? A: Representing England.
Who has had the most influence on you in your sport and in what way? A: My family, for their support and encouragement.
As a young pro, what were your aims and ambitions? A: To be the best I could be.
What did you find to be the most difficult aspect of your sport? A: Injuries — missing games because of them.
Who are your sporting heroes and why? A: My uncles, Dave and Den. They taught me the game from a very young age.
What were your best qualities as a professional footballer .... and what were your worst? A: Passing was my best quality and heading, definitely my worst.
If you could change one rule in your sport what would it be and why? A: I’d like to see players punished more for cheating.
What has been the most memorable event or match you’ve participated in and why was it so memorable? A: American Soccerbowl ’77, which was Pele’s last competitive game — and I got the ‘man of the match’ award in our win.
How would you sum up or describe playing for the New York Cosmos — and Aston Villa — two clubs very close to your heart? A: Obviously, playing for Villa was my boyhood dream, while playing for the Cosmos was a fantastic experience — particularly to play alongside some of the world’s greatest players.
Did you have a set routine in terms of preparation on a match day? A: As a superstition, I always put my left boot on last.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given from anyone in the game, which has stood you in good stead in football and in life? A: I was always told to work hard and be willing to learn.
What was the worst part of training for you? A: Definitely pre-season.
What would you say was the best part of being a pro player? A: The lifestyle that comes with it.
If you could have chosen to play your sport at any venue in the world, where would it have been and why? A: Wembley — the home of English football.
How much of your life did football take up and what effect did it have on family life? A: Football was my life. It had little effect on my family life as they always supported me throughout.
If you had a celebrity fan, who would you want it to be and why? A: Bruce Springsteen. I’m a big fan of his music.
What lessons for life have you learned through football? A: Never take anything for granted.
Have you met any famous sports people outside of football? A: I was very fortunate through football to meet many famous people, such as Mick Jagger, The Who, Peter Frampton, Steven Spielberg, no name but a few.
What have been the benefits to you by being a top footballer? A: A healthy lifestyle, keeping fit and treasured memories.
What’s the worst injury you’ve had and what was the rehab like? A: I ended up having a complete knee replacement, which still troubles me today.
Is there a sport you haven’t tried, but think you might be good at — and why? A: Boxing. I’ve always fancied giving it a go.
What advice would you offer to a youngster starting out in your sport? A: Be willing to learn and enjoy playing.
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