The 49-year-old Aucklander added another role two years ago - lightning-fast striker - when he made his Masters Games debut in Dunedin.
The lightning-fast part was added for dramatic affect and was followed by the disclaimer, ``In my mind''.
But Cortese enjoyed the week so much he is returning again next year and he is bringing the band again.
Shane Cortese and the 8 Track Band are one of the key entertainment acts on the opening night of the event which gets under way in early February.
The Masters Games, which is being sponsored by the Otago Daily Times, is accepting early-bird registrations before November 30 and Cortese is one of the many returning athletes.
Cortese's band cranks out those sort of anthems New Zealanders have become accustomed to hearing down the pub or at a barbeque.
The gig is only part of the attraction for Cortese, though. His football team has a title to defend. It collected gold in the 45-plus grade in 2016 and is returning to defend that title.
``We are out to make sure we keep that,'' he said.
``We've got a good bunch of guys ready to come down and we are looking forward to it.
``It is a really well-organised event and everyone is down there for the right reasons. They want to keep playing competitive sport and they want to socialise and have a great time.''
When Cortese is not kicking around the football or belting out songs, he keeps busy as an auctioneer for Sotheby's.
He is also an actor and best known for his roles on Nothing Trivial, The Almighty Johnsons and Outrageous Fortune.
He returns to the set of Westside on Monday and is coming into the busy season with his band.
Squeezing in football training might be a bit of a stretch for the multi-talented Cortese.
But then he is pretty slick on his feet. You might remember he finished runner-up in Dancing with the Stars in 2005.
Apparently, those silky skills do not transferred well to the football field, though.
``Aw mate, that's a myth. I just held on for dear life.''
His acting ability, though, might come more handy.
``Especially when you are in the 22-yard box and you are rolling around and crying in pain. I've been watching all those English Premier League divas.''
Sounds like Mr Cortese has been doing some research for another role doesn't it.
