There is no doubt that from birth this young man was destined for greatness. His name means “Fair leader of people”. He is one in a long line of famous people who share his first name; ranging from scientist to fellow athletes; he was bound for success from the inception.
Should I describe this talented young man, there are only two words that suffice – humble and spiritual. Aubrey David hails from deep Trinidad and has made his dreams a reality and continues to strive for excellence. Seemingly leading a well-balanced life, he praises God in everything and salutes the Almighty for his accomplishments. From emulating previous footballers who have represented Trinidad and Tobago, he has risen from a humble beginning to a budding career in Kazakhstan, where he is adamant that success is inevitable.
During Trinidad and Tobago’s presence and amazing performance at this year’s Gold Cup, Aubrey was most willing to chat with me and share his story and in the midst of it, remind us of how integral God is in everything that we do. Definitely an outstanding young man!
This week we present Rising Star, Aubrey David:
Q: Please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about who you are.
A: My name is Aubrey David, and I’m 24. I am a Shakhter Karaganda (Kazakhstan) defender. I am an easy going person, I like the simple things in life and I’m quiet and friendly.
Q: Where are you from?
A: I was originally born in Guyana, and at the age of 3, I came to Trinidad with my mom and my brother. We currently live in Point Fortin, in Trinidad.
Q: What is your greatest joy?
A: Being able to make my family and friends proud of me. Taking care of them brings the greatest joy, and also serving God brings my greatest joy.
Q: Who has inspired you the most?
A: My mom and my dad inspire me the most.
Q: Which fellow footballer do you most admire?
A: The fellow footballer I admire the most is Densil Theobald; he is a true leader,on and off the field, a hard worker, a true role model.
Q: How and when did your career start?
A: My career started in 2008, with Southend F.C, under the coach Anthony Rougier, I was 18 at that time.
Q: What are your greatest accomplishments?
A: There are a few accomplishments. One is playing in a youth world cup. Secondly I scoring on my debut for the National Senior team, and thirdly, signing a professional contract in Europe. The most recent is playing in a Gold Cup.
Q: What would you say is your best attribute?
A: My best attribute is my energy and that I am versatile. I can use any foot comfortably.
Q: What is your biggest peeve?
A: Seeing girls smoking.
Q: What is one thing that most people don’t know about you?
A: I'm very shy at first, but when you get to know me you will realize I am a clown and I like to joke around.
Q: What is your ultimate dream?
A: My ultimate goal is to play in a World Cup, and win it.
Q: Describe the daily schedule of a National Footballer.
A: Well for me, my schedule is, as soon as I wake up I read my Bible and pray. Then we have meals, training and then resting. It’s not complicated. I read and pray before I go to bed, and then sleep.
Q: What does it mean to be a National Footballer?
A: Personally it means a lot to me to be a national athlete. Ever since I fell in love with the game at an early age, I always watched on Dwight Yorke, Carlos Edwards and Avery John on t.v, representing the country. I made dreams that I wanted to be there some day, and now I’m here, so it really means a lot to me and I thank the Lord for his many blessings,
Q: Who has been your most influential coach?
A: I have had a lot of influential coaches, like Anton Corneal, Howard Spence and Terrence Marcelle, but the most influential coach will have to Neville Fredericks. He taught me the game and the basics and fundamentals. He made me fall in love with game.
Q: How was your experience in your first game of the group stages against Guatemala at the Gold up?
A: My experience playing against Guatemala was a good one. It was a game of 2 halves, first half dominating the game, and2nd half having to defend a lot, but we got the victory. I’m proud of my team.
Q: What fuels your passion for football?
A: My passions came naturally.
Q: How is it at your new club in Kazakhstan?
A: It was a bit rough at my new club. I'm experiencing a lot of new things; a new culture, a new style of football. Also our club is at bottom of the table, so things are not that smooth.
Q: What do you enjoy aside from football?
A: I enjoy going to church, relaxing with my friends and family and just being around them. I also like playing video games and going to the beach.
Q: What is your favourite International team?
A: My favourite team is Arsenal; Dani Alves is my favourite player.
Q: What are your goals for 2015?
A: My goal for 2015 was to win the Gold Cup. Also to help the national team in the World Cup Qualifier campaign which starts later this year. I also plan to keep improving each and every day.
Q: What is your message to younger players looking on at you?
A: My advice to the youths is, nothing come easy! Success isn't given, you have to work hard for it. Key things to need to become successful are hard work, discipline, a strong mindset. However, most importantly you need a relationship with God, because “With God all things are possible!”, Matthew 19:26.