Before heading off to join the Trinidad & Tobago U-23 National Team for Olympic qualifying, forward Rundell Winchester talked about Portland, his childhood hero and leaving his family to pursue his dream as a footballer.
Which professional soccer players did you look up to as a kid?
“I looked up to Ronaldinho when I was growing up because his style of play changed football. Lovely player. I just like his style of play and plus he’s a forward.”
What were your initial reactions of the city of Portland? What do you think of the city?
“Well it’s a lovely city, it’s a bit different from my country so I know I’m getting accustomed and adjusted to it. It’s pretty nice, I see myself here, and just playing here. I know my teammates are so nice, so I just love it here so far.”
How has playing internationally for Trinidad and Tobago prepared you for T2?
“It is an honor playing for my country, always an honor, and plus its playing against experienced players, so I always work hard and keep focused. They taught me a lot, so I just come out and show what I can do here.”
Did you play any other sports growing up? What are your other favorites?
“I use to do track and field, I use to run with my friends just for fun. I did long jump and high jump, those were my favorite events I use to do. It used to be fun.”
What’s it like being so far away from your family? Sacrificing those things to follow your dream as a footballer?
“It’s kind of difficult, but I still talk to my family everyday so I still keep the connection. It’s pretty difficult because I have a son, but I do all of this for my son to give him a better life and to better myself.”
