MOST people fortunate enough to reach 50 years of age celebrate reaching the milestone with a day of indulgence, relaxation and reflection, writes Bobby Bridge. But not Manor Park RFC tight-head prop Glynn Huskins who was set to mark achieving the big “five-o” last Saturday by packing down against Harbury in Midlands 4 West South action. However, the evergreen front-rower was afforded a small mercy as the frosty elements postponed the fixture, affording him a day off to watch the Six Nations on television. “I’ll keep playing as long as I can,” said Huskins. “I don’t want to become one of those old men who sit in their chair moaning. While I can still bring something to the table I’ll turn up with my boots.” Huskins first rocked up to the Griff and Coton-based club 27 years ago and has stood the test of time, playing under countless captains and coaches, and still remains in and around the first team. “I’ll play for whoever I’m selected, whether it’s the firsts, seconds or thirds,” added Huskins. “There’s a lot of good young props at the club but the rolling subs at this level means there’s a chance for me to come on if we’re under pressure and the coach thinks I can help out.” As well as still being a genuine scrummaging force, Huskins is also a fine ambassador for Manor Park, often seen shaking hands and exchanging words with the opposition and knocking their changing room door after the final whistle to share a few words of praise or encouragement. Current head coach Lee Maddison has played alongside Glynn for 10 years and said: “I have never seen in all my years playing rugby, which is some 23 to 24 years now, a prop that has never took a step back in scrum. “It’s no exaggeration, this man is an immense tight-head prop - if only he could move about the pitch a wee bit more he could be a world beater. “It’s unbelievable really and at the age of 50 to still be putting a first team shirt on is a remarkable achievement and one Glynn should be extremely proud of. “Every time he steps on the pitch he inspires those around him to follow his lead. He is a quiet player but when something does venture out of his mouth it usually makes a lot of sense. “In short Glynn is an inspiration to any young player in the club to play at the highest level within the club you can, and ultimately play for as long as you can. “He is a credit to the club.” Former Manor Park player and highly respected coach, Kevin Venus, also had glowing praise for his former teammate. He said: “As an ex-first team captain in some of the club’s most successful years, Glynn at tight-head was the cornerstone of those massive performances and certainly gave us the platform for the many memorable wins we all enjoyed. A true stalwart and rugby gentleman.” Affectionately referred to as ‘ledge’ - an abbreviation of legend - or ‘uncle Glynn’, he keeps fit by partaking in numerous bike rides but typically of the man, conceded he has been “lucky with injuries”. It was fitting in 2010, when Manor Park celebrated its 50th anniversary, that Huskins received a tie acknowledging his 25-year contribution to the club. But what does the future hold for the venerable clubman? “I love the club and it’s been a huge part of my life, I don’t see that ending any time soon,” said Huskins. | 
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