Deji Oshilaja

Deji Oshilaja is a proud former participant of Waterloo Sports & Football Club and one of our most inspiring success stories. Raised in Bermondsey, Deji first honed his skills in our estate-based football sessions, where his talent and dedication quickly stood out.

He progressed to professional football with Cardiff City and went on to build an impressive career with clubs including Gillingham, AFC Wimbledon (where he captained the side), Charlton Athletic, and Burton Albion. In 2024, Deji joined Mansfield Town, where he made a major impact both on and off the pitch.

His outstanding performances during the 2024–25 season earned him a clean sweep at Mansfield’s end-of-season awards, including Supporters’ Player, Players’ Player, Directors’ Player, and the SSA Player of the Season. He was also recognised by the PFA as a Community Champion, highlighting his leadership beyond football.
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGIn4SY1NfQ)

As our Alumni Ambassador, Deji continues to support Waterloo’s mission and serves as a role model to young people across Southwark and Lambeth, showing what’s possible with perseverance, support, and opportunity.