I must apologise for not writing a column last weekend. I was in Mexico with my team and trying to get the column done was impossible.

We won the game and returned home last weekend and have since beaten Monterrey La Raza 19-9 and Philadelphia Kixx 12-2.

We now have a 13-2 record and have clinched the league title so we will also be heading back to the play-off championship final next month, having the best record in the league.

Having three games left in the regular season we still cannot take any breaks, we must be playing well heading into the final game.

This week I want to talk about a young man who was up here training with my team. He is 21-years-old and has been through his struggles of life.

He has been here for two and-a-half weeks training with the team, learning and getting familiar with the professional environment.

The young man worked very hard and came here with a great attitude.

His will to be successful did not go unnoticed but he understands he has some work to do before he returns in four weeks.

I am talking about this young man because his desire for change could only help move others.

This young man has been on the streets and incarcerated but has been doing everything it takes to change his life.

He is now a part of the hope4life/ISL programme and has been given a chance to improve his life.

He will be heading back to Bermuda this week and then returning back to Baltimore in four weeks not just to try out for outdoor teams but also to learn more about building his business which he has now developed an appetite for.

Yes, this young man is looking to now further his skills not just on the field but in his trade of cutting hair which he also takes pride in.

We have spent some time laying out his plan and direction for his success with his business and soccer career.

I was impressed with the young man's first day when he came into Baltimore and told me he would do everything it takes to move forward, he made sure that I understand the change of his life is what he needs and wants very bad.

His dedication in training and respect for the game was great and the players up here have taken to him and are looking for the best for his career and life, they have also given him advice on his game and look forward to his return.

He has a lot of drive and is eager to learn not just on the field but off the field as well.

In his short period of time he understands what it will take to be successful and is willing to give his life a chance.

He was not here only getting taught but doing some teaching himself. He taught me a lot and has helped me understand life of young men in Bermuda.

He shared his stories with me so I could understand that it is not just about young men in Bermuda losing their way but about them trying to find their way from the very start.

He made me realise that as much as I want to help them they have to understand the importance of their life before they accept any challenges of change.

Yes, this young man is fully aware of his past and has no excuse for his shortcomings.

All he wants to do is change and strive to be the best he can.

My young brother, here is my advice to as you return home, I want you to know that I appreciate your time and hard work you put in while here in Baltimore and allowing me into your life and I now look forward in your return in four weeks.

Yes, I am also fully aware that your task in Bermuda of staying focused will not be easy so at any time you feel that you are starting to lose focus.

I want you to take one minute and recap what you want in life and spend all your energy towards that, think about the hard work you have put in thus far.

You have a lot of talent and must understand that your life is special.

Understand that your experiences are now your knowledge to help others – only you could get in the way of what you want in life.

Always look ahead and never lose track of what you really want.

So, my young brother never look back, you are on your way to the top, realise your journey will seem forever but arriving at your destination must be your focus.

I leave you with this quote from Abraham Lincoln: "I'm a slow walker, but I never walk back."

Until next time!