There was an overwhelming sense of optimism as family, friends, team-mates, work colleagues and well-wishers united in prayer during a moving prayer vigil at Berkeley Institute last night for critically injured footballer Gabriel Wilkinson, who is still clinging to life at Lahey Clinic near Boston.

The 26-year old Somerset Eagles goalkeeper suffered serious head injuries in a horrific collision during a football match involving his club and Ireland Rangers at White Hill Field last Sunday and was subsequently airlifted to Lahey Clinic where he remains heavily sedated and has yet to speak since the freak accident.

Last night saw a group of two hundred plus turn up at Berkeley Institute where words of encouragement were exchanged and strength obtained through unity, song and prayer

"It is just touching to see so many people come out on a weekday to show their support to my family.

"Just to see so many people praying for him has been outstanding; we have just gotten so much support," commented Wilkinson's brother, Garon.

The martial artist admitted the past few days have indeed been very challenging but is nonetheless encouraged by his unwavering belief in the power of prayer.

"It's a very surreal situation and it's only at times when I sit down and really think about it do I get upset. But for the most part we have remained positive and try go about my daily routine," Garon added.

When asked about the state of his brother's health, Garon replied:"They (doctors) are still going to keep him (Gabriel) in a sedated state until they feel the swelling has gone down and that he can breathe on his own. And I am really remaining positive.

"Ispoke to my parents (Garry and Sharon Wilkinson) and they said the swelling had gone down tremendously, which is very encouraging news.

"My first priority was to make sure he was going to have his life and that seems to be less of a concern now. The focus is now on how fast he can recover."

Calvin White, chairman of the Board of Governors for Berkeley Institute, was also among those touched by last night's moving prayer vigil.

"I think it's a wonderful expression of love for the teacher and indicative of what we call the Berkeley family, which comprises of teachers, students, parents, alumni and then the wider community. We are all one big family and I was very moved and glad to be here tonight."

Leading those in attendance in prayer was pastor Maria Seaman, who recalled teaching the stricken footballer during her 19-year teaching stint at Berkeley Institute.

"I think everyone recalls how Gabriel was a wonderful personality; certainly outgoing, energetic and just a big guy with a big heart.

"And this is why we are so confident that this is part of the reason why he's yet with us today," she said.

"He just has so much robust energy and great creativity and passion for the future, which will certainly help to pull him through.

"One thing that I firmly believe is that Bermuda, by and large, is yet a Godly nation and so we know that when there comes a desperate situation we will turn to God in prayer.

"We will become one joining in unity seeking to have that prayer answered by God."

Also present at Berkeley Institute last night was Paget Community Cub president Mike Stovell who attended on behalf of the First Division club.

"Ijust came out to show my support tonight. Imet Gabriel up at White Hill Field and two weeks ago we (Paget) actually played against him," Stovell said. "When I read about him I just had to take some time out of my schedule to come and show my support."

Last night's prayer vigil was also attended by Bermuda Football Association (BFA) general secretary David Sabir and top executive Gregory Grimes as well as players from Eagles and Ireland Rangers.

"I think we as a football family should get together more often; not just for situations like this, but on a regular basis to show the unity and harmony that is supposed to be in this family we have," added Stovell.

Somerset Trojans captain and long-time friend of the Wilkinson family, Jelani Scott, described the Eagles 'keeper as "a role model" who many look to as a source of inspiration.

"Gabriel is a strong guy, not just physically, but also mentally," Scott told The Royal Gazette. "He is the type of guy whereas being a teacher in this sort of setting at Berkeley is ideal for him as he is able to influence younger males especially to grow up and do something positive.

"Gabriel is a role model and I am sure he is going to pull through because he is a strong character."