Gary Rowell (born 6 June 1957) is an English former footballer—most notably with Sunderland—and a current local (North East) newspaper columnist. Born in Sunderland and raised in Seaham, h.e left school and joined Sunderland as an apprentice in 1972. His career was split (1972–84) between playing as a striker (albeit often coming from deep) and in midfield. He scored 102 goals for The Rokerites in all competitions, surpassing the previous record post-war goalscorer, Len Shackleton, who had scored 101 goals. Rowell's record stood until it in turn was beaten by Kevin Phillips in the early 21st century.