Luka Chalwell has created history in the sport of football after signing a contract to join Eastleigh FC in the English National League, making him the first born BVIslander to play professional football.
This was confirmed by the BVI Football Association in a media release on Monday, which said that Chalwell signed the professional contract on Thursday, June 15 for a two-year period.
“Chalwell, a product of the FA’s development pathways, started under the watchful eye of Coach John Reilly, flourished in the BDO Schools League, and blossomed in the FA Youth teams before earning his first full international cap in the CONCACAF World Cup qualifier against Guatemala in 2021,” the release stated.
It added, “Since then, he has represented the country in the CONCACAF Nations League and been in England learning his trade at clubs such as Poole Town, where he scored a hat trick in the FA Youth Cup, before getting his chance with the Eastleigh Elite Development Program courtesy of a recommendation to Lee Bradbury, Manager of Eastleigh FC, from the BVI National Coach, Chris Kiwomya, who has also been working with Chalwell on improving his all round game.”
Speaking on the milestone achievement, Chalwell said he was excited to learn of the offer and praised his parents for their support over the years.
“This is such a proud moment for myself and my family, signing my first professional contract with Eastleigh FC. I want to thank my parents for their unwavering support and sacrifice throughout my journey so far. Words can’t describe how I feel to have reached this stage,” Chalwell stated.
“I’ve always worked very hard but especially this past year, putting my all into further developing my physical and mental skills whilst working very hard to condition my body for the intense physicality of professional level football which has allowed me this opportunity with Eastleigh FC. I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead,” he added.
Luka earned the contract
Coach Kiwomya in a comment said that Chalwell earned the contract after being presented with just an opportunity.
“I was able to get Luka (Chalwell) the opportunity, but he had to show dedication to learn the game and improve himself.” Stated Kiwomya “he has really improved over 12-18 months, has an eye for goal, good stamina and is a good header of the ball. I was happy to step in and help him achieve his dream, which he’s grabbed with both hands, and I believe he has a good chance of making the breakthrough to the first team and playing at a higher level,” the national coach explained.
Both the President of the BVIFA, Andy Bickerton and Technical Director, Dan Neville congratulated Chalwell for his achievement, with Bickerton stating, “The BVIFA is very proud of Luka, he is a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication, hard work, and the essential and necessary family support.”
“Congratulations to Luka, the first of what we hope is many more to follow,” Neville stated.