From carpentry to Crystal Palace: former professional footballer Dwight Gayle motivates CCC students

In a visit to Capital City College’s Enfield campus this month, former professional footballer Dwight Gayle shared his story in an engaging Q+A session with students, where he reflected on his early passion for the game and the mindset that helped him achieve success. 

Not everyone knows what career path they want to follow from a young age, and that was certainly the case for Dwight Gale. Born in Walthamstow, North East London, Dwight first studied carpentry at college, and his journey from carving wood to scoring goals was built on determination, resilience, and belief. 

Asked what first sparked his love for football, Gayle credited his father. “My dad was in love with football and me being young, always saw that and got into football through him”, he says.  

Growing up in Chingford, he also looked up to one of England’s most famous footballers – David Beckham, who, like Dwayne, also played for the Ridgeway Rovers in his youth career. “Being from Chingford, David Beckham was a big inspiration to me and also a reason I support Manchester United” says Dwayne – although he is yet to play for the famous Northern side, he has enjoyed a successful career at clubs including Crystal Palace and Newcastle United. 

Despite training with the Ridgeway Rovers and Arsenal Youth as a teenager, his route into professional football wasn’t instant. After taking a course in carpentry and working in office refurbishment, he broke into the Football League and signed with Dagenham & Redbridge. 

“It was just a climbing thing really, it was a process over time and I just stayed focused” says Dwayne. “While things like money were a factor for other people, it didn’t really motivate me like that and that’s why I think teams took a chance on me.” 

He fondly recalled his first professional goal – a moment of nail-biting nerves and elation combined. “My first goal was against Gillingham for Dagenham. It was a penalty and I was really nervous and I remember just smashing the ball down the middle and feeling ecstatic.” 

His proudest football moments, however, are those he shares with his family. “I have three young kids and knowing your family is proud of you and walking out with my son was really a special moment.” 

Throughout the session, Dwight emphasised the power of a positive mindset and determination over natural talent – a message that resonated deeply with students. 

“I’m a really big believer in mindset. I wasn’t always the most talented player, the fastest or strongest. I think blaming yourself instead of others is important and making mistakes is okay as long as you can improve on them. Making mistakes is how we grow and that’s why mindset is really important” says Dwight. 

His message of perseverance left a lasting impression on students, many of whom were inspired by his honesty and determination. As a former college student himself, Gayle’s journey to Premier League pitches is a reminder of the success that can be achieved through hard work, self-belief, and the right mindset. 

Want to turn your passion into a career like Dwight Gayle? Why not explore the range of courses we offer. From carpentry and construction skills, to our sports academies and more, we have something for everyone, whatever your goals. 

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