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Motivation transformed into motion is the essence of Caledonia AIA utility player Nicholas Marcano.
Now about to turn 21, his calm demeanour and focus on the field seems to be a natural transition to his off pitch persona. ‘Carno’, as he is called by his team mates, always has his eyes on the ball.
(Courtesy: Allan Powder/Wired868)
Marcano knows personal tragedy. He was 11 years old when he lost his father to a motor vehicle accident on the Beetham Highway, and that memory grounds him.
Family is very important to the young man, who is the youngest of eight siblings. Marcano is adamant that education is the key to future success and is interested in studying Sociology at tertiary level.
He has secured a place at the University of the West Indies (UWI) but is awaiting confirmation on a scholarship offer—arranged by Caledonia AIA coach Jamal Shabazz—from Lindsey Wilson College in Kentucky, USA. And he is confident this opportunity will help him take the next step in his career and secure his family’s financial future.
Wired868 caught up with the motivated and promising footballer at the Caledonia’s alternate training grounds in Maracas, St Joseph, for a one on one:
(Courtesy: Allan Powder/Wired868.)
Date of birth: 22 July, 1994
Hometown: Valencia
Favourite Position: Midfield
What school you attended?
North Eastern College and St Augustine Senior Comprehensive
Can you describe your personality?
I am a very passionate person who commits to anything I love. I am caring, focused and ambitious: They all help me to improve who I am.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I enjoy reading the Bible and also being a fitness instructor at R4 fit camp at Valencia.
What is your favourite team?
Chelsea to my heart, I have been committed since they signed Didier Drogba in 2004.
Who is your favourite player:
Eden Hazard. I think he is an amazing player to watch.
Earliest memories of football?
My first coaching school was North East Stars, and I enjoyed playing with Joe Public U14, all great memories!
Who had the most influence on your career?
I remember speaking to my father when I was five and asking him to play football with my teenage brothers. He allowed me to play and my talent developed under his guidance. He was always there as my motivation and support.
What pushes you to succeed?
It is a touchy topic (He looked away momentarily). Before my father died, he was the biggest inspiration in my life. He was the reason I started playing football and he is still the main reason I push on.
(Courtesy Allan V Crane/Wired868)
Most important coaches?
Shawn Cooper, he was my coach while I played for the National U-17; and Coach Michael Grayson, he was my coach at St Augustine Senior Comprehensive. I admire them because they can motivate young players to be better.
What is your passion for football?
My passion is to represent my country. Although I did it for the U-17 squad, it has been a bit difficult to get back out there. But I think with time I will get my chance.
What makes you stand out as a player?
No ego; I am selfless but confident. I try to bring balance anywhere I am, because I try to remain objective to accomplish the team goals. Hard work and dedication always yield results.
What is your most memorable moment in football so far?
One of the most memorable for me is when I achieved the ‘Play of the Day’ on all local channels during the 2012 East Intercol competition. It was an amazing free kick against Toco Secondary.
How far are you willing to take football as a career?
As much as I am committed to football, I am committed to my family. I don’t think there is any job security in football locally; as most young footballers I want to play internationally. I am committed to my education to secure a future for my family.
How do you think the Pro League improves football for the youth?
It should be the common goal of all teams (in the Pro League) to develop the youth, put things in place like facilities and scouts, and encourage people to come to the youth games. More focus on development is needed. I believe the Minister of Sport and the Government have the power to do that. We need to invest in (football) and see it as a way to save children’s lives.
(Courtesy Allan V Crane/Wired868)
What is your personal target this season?
Simple, bragging rights. I want to play in a Pro Bowl Final. Coach said, when you play in a final there is no choice but to win.
You have a birthday coming up, any special plans?
(He smiles).
Mostly it will be (celebrating) with my family, but I’m sure that special someone has something planned.
Editor’s Note: Nicholas Marcano and Caledonia AIA will challenge Central FC for the Pro Bowl title from 8 pm on Friday May 29 at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva.
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I can say safely that this player has what it takes to work with to achieve international level. He is hardworking, disciplined, committed, respectful, humble and educated also. Nicholas always try to execute was is asked of him by the coaches. I’m proud to be CALE with the gentleman on board
Again from Allan who was very resourceful.
Thanks for the video add Allan Powder
Had the pleasure of meeting, working and playing football with him at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He’s a good one, Nicholas.
Thanks Lasana Liburd, it was a pleasure working on the article. Marcano is motivated and passionate about football and his education. More should be done to nurture and develop like minded youths. Looking forward to the video.
Good job Allan Powder in your interview.
I think he has promise Hannibal. I’ve seen him play this season in central defence at left back and in central midfield and I thought he looked comfortable everywhere.
He is simple, committed and decent on the ball. He has a long way to go but he has tools to work with.
Believe me Lasana, you are doing a fabulous job of showcasing these young players. I trust however, that they are as gifted on a regional level as we wish them to be – that for starters.