Although originally from Norwich, the Gilman family emigrated to Australia a number of years ago. On their return they approached Norwich on the subject of giving Lee a trial. Playing in a few South East Counties league games, he showed what he could do and was offered a three year trainneship. Lee was described by Keith Webb as an "attacking midfielder who loves to run at the defence... a sweet right foot..".

Lee was released by the Canaries during the 2000/01 season and joined local non-league side Diss Town. He proved his value to the non-leaguers when he scored twice for Robert Fleck's side in their 4-1 Norfolk Senior Cup victory over Great Yarmouth in April 2003. His tally for the season was 24 goals.

Lee transferred to Wroxham in October 2004

In December 2007, Lee was a target for Dereham but he opted to remain at Wroxham. He finally left Wroxham in May 2008 to join Kirkley & Pakefield. he had scored 70 goals in 130 games that he had started for Wroxham. Kirkley also signed fellow Wroxham player Justin Fox and former Norwich yougnster Lewis Blois

In September 2008, Lee was involved with an altercation with the referee following a red card in Kirkley's match at Harwich & Parkeston. The game was abandoned after 30minutes and Lee was suspended by the club. A statement issued on the Kirkley website said: "Kirkley & Pakefield FC would like to apologise to the referee and his assistants at this afternoon's game at Harwich & Parkeston for the behaviour of one of our players. This is conduct that cannot be condoned and the player in question has been suspended by the club with immediate effect. Kirkley & Pakefield would like to thank the Harwich & Parkeston committee and officials for their hospitality.A further statement will be issued in due course."

Gilman's contract with Kirkley was terminated on 3rd October 2008 and he was told that he would “never, ever” play for Kirkley and Pakefield FC again.