North Village central defender Kofi Dill has returned for the Christmas recess and has proved a crucial link in the heart of the Red Devils' defence as they wrestled the Dudley Eve title from last year's winners Devonshire Colts.

Having broken into Village's first team at the age of 16 and the senior national squad at 19, Dill has put his local soccer career on hold to pursue an education. He is presently in the second year of an electrical programme at Drake State Technical College in Huntsville, Alabama and plans to return home to open his own electrician business.

While at school, Kofi has chosen not to pursue any possible professional soccer opportunities but he does maintain a semblance of fitness by participating in the Huntsville City League where he plays for FC International.

Dill, who is a graduate of Northlands Secondary School, believes that there are opportunities available for those who are interested and sees college as a positive opportunity for one to broaden horizons.

"I would encourage people to try it (college) because you need school. I know that school is not for everyone but I think young people should try it out because it could really help you,'' said Dill.

He also sees increasing opportunities in the US as a possible option for Bermudians to pursue professional soccer goals.

"If we can get into soccer in the MLS (Major League Soccer), it would be great because it will improve soccer in Bermuda. The more players go abroad, the better soccer in Bermuda will be.

Getting to grips: Kofi Dill (left) grapples with Colts' Quincy Aberdeen in yesterday's Dudley Eve Trophy final.