NVCC President Pays Tribute To Nakia Smith
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Shervin Dill, the North Village Community Club president, has paid tribute to former footballer Nakia Smith, describing him as a “mighty warrior” who always put the team first.
Smith, who was part of Village’s Triple Crown-winning team during the 2005-6 season, passed away recently. He was aged 49.
The utility player was a product of Village’s youth system, and Dill said he epitomised the spirit and ethos of the Bernard Park outfit.
“I’ve known Nakia since he was five,” Dill told Bernews. “He was always a mighty warrior for the club – he was fearless as a player.
“He was very talented and could play anywhere on the field. He was a coach’s dream.
“He never complained and always gave 110 per cent. The club is shattered by this news.”
Dill said Smith will be best remembered for his contribution to their success in 2005-6 when Village won the league title, FA Cup and Friendship Trophy.
“Nakia was an integral part of that team along with stalwarts such as the Jennings boys, Kentoine, Kevin, Keith and Jemeiko, and Ralph Bean Jr among others.”
Dill said Smith was a team player on and off the field, often lending his expertise as a self-employed plumber to help the club.
“He was courageous, respectful, and kind,” Dill said. “He was always looking out for others.
“He was a self-employed plumber by trade, and any time we had any maintenance issues at the club, Nakia was someone we could call upon.
“He would be on hand and provide any service we needed free of charge. He was a beautiful person.”
Smith, who later played football for Wolves, was also a keen cricketer, playing for North Village as a top-order batsman in the Commercial League.
Dill added: “We extend our sincere condolence to his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.”
