Brendon’s creed – lead with humility, be a team player

By Jamila Cross athletesdiscovered@gmail.com

Name: Brendon Creed
Age: 24
Hometown: Petit Valley
University: Temple University- BSc in Civil Engineering
Past Student: Newtown Boys’ RC, Fatima College
Position: Midfield

It is rare that you come across a 24-year-old with all the intrinsic qualities of leadership, charisma, and bravado aka ‘swag’.

When I returned home in 2007, I got the opportunity to coach the youth teams at the football club that set the foundation for my athletic career SKHY FC. Brendon Creed was a six-year-old at the time, and one of the most eager youngsters you could find; he always struck me even from an early age as disciplined, talented, and curious.

He would question his coaches, and his intelligence off the field spilled over into his decision-making process on the field. He is what you would call a ‘thinking player’.

In the eyes of his mates, he is described as light-hearted, hardworking, and extremely dedicated. He never cuts corners and ensures that those around him perform at their best. He is a true leader.

In 2018, after completing his first degree, he did his GRE (mandatory exam) for person’s wanting to pursue a Master’s degree programme in the United States, as well as his Fundamentals in Engineering (professional licensing exam). Notwithstanding, he continues to hold close to his heart the desire to become a professional footballer.

How did you become involved in football?

I have a vague memory at a very young age of going with my father who played fete matches in the Police Barracks. I would be on the sidelines just kicking at the ball and even at the age of six or so, I felt I could play with the older guys. I also grew up watching a lot of football on television with my dad.

Describe your experience as an international athlete at university

I was awarded both athletic and academic scholarships to attend Temple University in Philadelphia. My freshman (first) year, I experienced many challenges. I had a lot of adapting and maturing to do. We had a tough season with 2 wins-14 losses-2 draws. By my second year, I became a starting player, and contributed to the team’s improved performance. We ended that season with 10 wins-6 losses-2 draws.

What has sport contributed to your life?

Football has been my greatest teacher about failure. I admit that I detest failing, but in my experiences with setbacks, it has opened a force inside that drives me to work my hardest. Sport has taught me humility in victory, leadership, and the importance of being a team player.

What has made you an adult?

Definitely accepting responsibility for the outcome of my life. As a younger player, if I were late for training, that would have been placed squarely on my parents. As an adult, I am more accountable for the ‘man in the mirror’. When something happens that does not match my expectations, I am charged with the responsibility for the change I want to see.

What is your spiritual practice?

Prayer, silent contemplation about where I am, where I want to be, and how I can get there. I practise gratitude, and I have a close inner circle who I can depend on for guidance, and support.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

I will be playing abroad professionally while pursuing my Master’s degree in geotechnical engineering (branch of civil engineering), with a solid plan for my career path.

Name one thing Covid-19 has taught you that you cannot live without?

I cannot live without football. Nothing can replace training, and playing full field matches with your teammates and the competition.

Who have been some of the most influential persons in your career?

Dexter Skeene, my former youth coach—his approach towards the coaching greatly matured me. My parents gave me the belief that I was worthy of success. My siblings –sibling rivalry pushed me in all areas of my life. They inspired me to do just as well as they were doing. And my ‘inner circle’ –we really inspire and support each other through our shared experiences.

What is your personal ethos?

Whether you believe you can or you cannot, you are right! I saw that in the weight room at university and it resonated deeply with me.

Describe your training as a young player

I have been extremely blessed to have been exposed to great coaching at a young age. I remember looking forward to the weekends, going to the savannah to train with SKHY FC. The environment at the club was so familial, coaches would enjoy being on the field. I had a lot of friends at the club, and there was an extremely positive spirit that inspired me to work hard to improve every week.

What has been the proudest moment of your football career?

Definitely, the opportunity to captain the National U-17 team in 2013. We missed qualification for the youth U-17 World Cup after we lost to Panama 4-2 in our final match. Notwithstanding the loss, I can remember the game like it was yesterday. I felt pride, joy, and a deep sense of personal accomplishment in being given the responsibility to captain the team which was not hard due to the level of discipline among all the players.

What is still your most elusive goal as an athlete?

Signing my first professional football contract. Covid-19 has played a role, but even prior to this, there are challenges in securing work permits as international players. In some leagues you must have played at least 75 per cent games with your national team and the international talent pool is very deep. The level of professionalism of agents and their international connections is also a challenge. Notwithstanding, I am confident that things will work out and I will make the transition soon.

Jamila Cross is a triathlete, former professional footballer for Sevilla FC women’s Club Spain, and mother of three boys Tishad, Akim and Santiago. She is the founder of the Mariama Foundation, a registered non-profit organisation raising the storytelling bar for the Caribbean’s female athletes.