Levi Colwill’s Commitment to Community
Levi Colwill, the Chelsea defender, recently prioritized a special event at Sholing FC, interrupting his holiday in Trinidad to attend a pre-season match featuring the Chelsea Under-18 squad against the non-league club. His journey was anything but straightforward, as he encountered travel chaos, missing his flight connection in Miami and embarking on a 24-hour trek back that included stops in Paris and London. Despite the hurdles, his commitment to Sholing FC, a team with which he has a personal connection, remained unshaken. This connection is deep-rooted; Colwill grew up in the vicinity of the club, and family ties run strong, with his uncles having played there.
Launching the Levi Colwill Academy
On July 13, Colwill had participated in a significant achievement, playing for Chelsea in their 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain to secure the Club World Cup. However, his return to Sholing was motivated by a greater cause: the introduction of the Levi Colwill Academy (LSC Academy), which will help local underprivileged children develop their football skills. After funding a new 3G pitch for the club, he was eager to see it inaugurated during Saturday’s match, which saw a club-record attendance of 1,888 fans.
Colwill expressed immense pride as he ventured onto the pitch at halftime with young academy hopefuls. He remarked, “Being here was a priority for me,” emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the academy, which he believes will bring positive change. “When I was walking around with the academy boys, it just felt so good. It’s all part of the plan to give back,” he added.
Transforming Lives Through Football
Growing up without privilege himself, Colwill understands the power of football in transforming lives. He fondly recollected attending Sholing FC games as a child, acknowledging their role in inspiring him. His motivation stems from a desire to provide opportunities to children from similar backgrounds, ensuring they have alternatives to dire circumstances.
Colwill’s off-pitch initiatives extend beyond local efforts; he also organized a football training session while on vacation in Trinidad, drawing hundreds of attendees from his grandmother’s neighborhood. He funded this event personally, showcasing his commitment to community enhancement and leaving behind a legacy that can inspire future generations.
Looking Ahead
As Colwill prepares to return to Chelsea for pre-season training, he seems undeterred by distractions stemming from his charitable endeavors. Supported by a dedicated team, including his uncle Daniel, who manages the academy, he is keen to ensure its successful operation. He aims for the academy to produce talent that can rise to professional levels, hoping they too will give back to the community in due course.
In the context of Chelsea’s recent triumphs, including a much-criticized victory against PSG, Colwill’s experiences and insights reflect a larger narrative about resilience within the team. He noted that their achievements have not shifted their mindset heading into the Premier League season. By stating, “We feel like we can definitely compete for the Premier League,” he echoed the belief that underdog determination drives them onward.
Moreover, the excitement of potentially playing in the Champions League, a dream he nurtured since childhood, added a layer of motivation. Colwill recalled the sheer thrill of attending those matches at Stamford Bridge and expressed anticipation for his involvement when the iconic anthem plays. His reflections reveal a young man grateful for opportunities and committed to giving back just as firmly as he aims to succeed on the pitch.
As he wraps up his holiday, Colwill is ready to dive back into intensive training, determined to make an impact on and off the field, armed with dreams of leaving a positive mark on many young lives.
