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Serious, straightforward and focussed, San Juan North midfielder Elair Brewster says football is his life and the thing he is most passionate about.
The 19-year old is a man of few words; and is all about getting the job done. He spoke one on one to Wired868 about the ongoing Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) Premier Division season:
(Copyright Kerlon Orr/CA-Images/Wired868)
What is your date of birth?
05 February 1999
Where are you from?
Bon Air North, Arouca. I lived there since birth.
When did you start playing?
I started around the age of eight while attending the St Pius Boys’ RC School in Arouca.
What drew you to football?
My two elder brothers Emmanuel (deceased) and Kwame Gilding were exceptional footballers and I wanted to be like them. Also, in my community, football was always being played in front of my home, so I would join in.
Who is your favourite player and why?
Wayne Rooney; because he has been very influential for Manchester United and because he started playing football at a very young age. My favourite team is Manchester United of course.
Who is the coach that most influenced you and why?
I would say Mr Jerry Moe because he has never once taught me something that was not used in the game and because he’s brilliant and raw.
What makes you stand out as a player?
Basically who I am on the field and the things I can do with the ball, like my range and quality of passing. I have a pretty accurate shot as well. I can hit the ball from anywhere basically.
What has been your best moment in football so far and what was your worst?
My best moment in football was winning the East Zone title last year. My worst was losing in the National Intercol final, also last year.
How do you prepare yourself for an important game?
Before a game, I try to be very relaxed. I know that I am going to war so I don’t talk much nor do I entertain much talk around me, except from the coach.
What do you hope to achieve this season?
I am hoping that we could create history by bringing the League title to the east. I think success is helping your team to win championships and titles and playing at my best.
(Copyright Allan V Crane/CA-Images/Wired868)
What do you hope to do when you finish school?
I hope to either gain a scholarship or get a national contract
How would you describe yourself as a person?
I consider myself to be a simple person. I am what you would call an “Average Joe”—except for when I am on the field. I usually play FIFA games in my spare time.
Do you consider yourself an example for your peers and why?
Yes I do. I think it is important for me to lead by example. I consider myself to be well rounded. Apart from my football ability, I have achieved my O’Level subjects and I am now in Sixth Form. Typically at this school the footballers leave at Form Five. I am not here to just play football for the school.
What words of advice would you give to young footballers?
I would tell them that Rome was not built in one day, so therefore they should not give up. Hard work brings success.
(Copyright Allan V Crane/CA-Images/Wired868)
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Michelle Salandy is a Bachelor of Arts student in Mass Communications at COSTAATT and a single parent of two. At present, she works in the field of administration.
She believes that in order to grow one must be open to new experiences and challenges.
