Chelsea's Levi Colwill reconnects with Trini roots in Fyzabad

CHELSEA FC defender and Club World Cup winner Levi Colwill touched down in his grandmother’s hometown of Fyzabad for a special one-day football training camp that left a lasting impression on the community, and the England international himself.

Hosted at Delhi Road Recreation Ground (Gallows) with support from community clubs Fyzabad United and Giving Back FC, the session saw nearly 100 children turn out to meet and train with the Premier League star, whose grandmother, Margaret Collymore, hails from the community.

Though born and raised in England, Colwill spoke passionately about the connection he feels to TT.

“I want to say it feels like home. I know I'm not from here, but when I come back, the people remind me so much of myself. It's a good vibe, everyone is chilled — as they like to say, lime. To come back is just really easy to me. I’ve really enjoyed it.”

The visit was more than symbolic. Colwill actively led training sessions and spoke directly with the young players about their potential, future, and the power of discipline and hard work.

“If I can inspire the kids and the youth to try and be better than me, that’s what I want. If we can build better pitches and things like this to give them the best opportunity to actually have a chance, that’s perfect.”

Colwill made clear that his involvement in Trinidad is not intended to be a one-off appearance.

“Hopefully, if I have the time, whenever I do have time, I will definitely be back over here. I’ve got family here, so it’s perfect,” he said.

The 21-year-old, who has represented England at multiple youth levels and has broken into Chelsea’s first team, also reflected on how fortunate he’s been in life, and why giving back matters.

“We’re luckier than other people, so to be able to try and help and change lives in any way possible, that’s what’s important. Footballers don’t get enough limelight when they do give back. There are players like (Chelsea teammate) Cole (Palmer) doing it too.”

One week ago, Palmer, Chelsea’s front-man, visited St Kitts – the birthplace of his grandfather Sterry – for the first time

Colwill also offered advice to the next generation of footballers in TT. He interacted with the youngsters in small groups, signing shirts and taking pictures on the muddy outfield. He urged young Fyzabad United, Giving Back FC and other individual players that they must first, enjoy football.

“When you're playing football, it could be the best moments with your friends and family. Don’t take it for granted. But the biggest thing is to work hard. You don't get anything in life without working hard. I'm a big believer that when you do, you prove your own luck.”

He has no plans to switch international allegiances but Colwill didn’t rule out contributing to the TT national team in other ways.

“I've played for England a few times, I wouldn’t be ready to change back to Trinidad. But if I played for Trinidad, I think my Nan (grandmother) would cry. She’d be so proud. It’s something I can’t do now, but maybe I can help influence more players to play for TT and help improve the team.”

For Margaret Collymore, who left Trinidad more than 50 years ago but frequently returns, watching her grandson take the field in Fyzabad was nothing short of emotional.

“Proud is an understatement,” she said. “What he’s doing today, if it can help one kid, it will make a difference to us as a family. Because he’s family-orientated. And it’s not short term — he’s got bigger plans. He’s going to be back to continue with it.”

Margaret, who now resides in Southampton, said it was a family decision to bring Levi to Fyzabad after he expressed an interest in visiting where she grew up. The planning was coordinated by the family and their contacts on the ground.

“We had a conversation, not about Fyzabad — he just said he wanted to come to Trinidad. And the next minute, it was Fyzabad. I said, really? And we took it from there.”

Despite him leaving on July 24, Colwill made it clear that this was only the beginning of a deeper connection with the community of his roots.

“I definitely need to come back for a longer period so I can really see the island again for myself,” he said.