With the exception of a short spell with Scottish club Hibernian in 1978, "Matta" played for IK Start throughout his career, where he won the Norwegian league title in 1978 and 1980.
It has later been beaten by Ola By Rise, Roar Strand, Christer Basma, Erik Hoftun and Bjørn Johansen.
In 2010, Mathisen was diagnosed with stomach cancer, and began treatment for it, but he continued to play football and appear on television.
In an interview with Verdens Gang, Mathisen said the sickness had taught him to love the little things in life, and that he was optimistic about his recovery.
[2] Mathisen's son Jesper is also a footballer, who plays as a central defender or defensive midfielder for IK Start.