TNN’s Trevor Lindsay spoke with former professional football player Kyle Lightbourne about the passing of the legendary Leroy “Nibs” Lewis. Kyle shared his heartfelt memories and the profound impact Coach Lewis had on his life and Bermuda football. Here’s what Kyle had to say,
“Coach Lewis was a serious, serious gentleman who played a huge role in shaping my path to professional football. Back in the day, he was the mastermind behind PHC, always full of ideas and strategies to push the team forward. When I played for the Zebras, he pushed every single player to their absolute limit, and that made a huge difference when I transitioned to playing in England.
He was truly ahead of his time here in Bermuda, and he had everyone’s best interest at heart. I believe he worked for Gosling’s at the time. He’d show up to training on his scooter, rain, blow or shine, no matter the weather conditions—he was always there. He was just an unbelievable man, and I have nothing but respect for him. All of us who had the honor of playing under him feel the same way.
TNN’s Trevor Lindsay: Coaches often form deep connections with their players. Is there a conversation or moment with Coach Lewis that stands out for you, something you’ll hold onto forever?
Lightbourne One of the things I’ll always remember about Coach Lewis is how he could always bring out the best in us. He never let us give anything less than our best effort. As I transitioned into becoming a coach myself, I can still hear him laughing and saying, “Now you know what I was going through!” He had that ability to connect with us, and we respected him for it. He didn’t let any of us get away with anything—he was tough, but that’s what we needed. That’s part of his legacy, and it shaped a lot of us into the players and men we are today.
Lindsay asked: You mentioned a few legendary coaches in Bermuda—Leroy Nibs Lewis, Carlton Pepe Dill, and Donald Dane. Do you think we’ll see coaches like them again?
Kyle responded: It’s hard to say. That era of coaches was really something special. Donald Dane was actually my headmaster in school, so I knew firsthand how strict and disciplined he was. I didn’t play under Pepe Dill, but all of them were trailblazers. They set the standard for football in Bermuda, and they never allowed those standards to drop. They were able to achieve great things with the players they had because they demanded excellence. That’s something we’ll always remember.
Question: It’s clear that Coach Lewis left a lasting legacy. Is there anything else you’d like to add?
It’s a sad day for everyone at PHC and for Bermuda football as a whole. Coach Lewis has been overseas for some time, but his influence has never left us. May he rest in eternal peace. He will be dearly missed, but his legacy will live on in all of us who had the privilege to know him.
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