NAME: Kelso Cousins

DOB: November 11, 1988

TEAM: Waterhouse FC

TREASURED POSITION: Goalkeeper

CLEAN SHEETS: Six

THIS week, TEENage's Stars-Of-Tomorrow will turn its attention to the lanky Waterhouse goalkeeper Kelso Cousins. Kelso is one of the rising stars in the local football arena and in a number of years will no doubt be challenging the veterans for a spot in the national set-up.

TEENage recently spoke with Kelso to get a sense of where his promising voyage began.

"I got started at age 15 playing for Albion United at the Under-17 level. My debut game was humiliating and I was very nervous. My opponents kicked four goals past me that day," Cousins explained. The fact that he persisted with goalkeeping despite this embarassing feat is certainly commendable.

Cousins, in outlining his love for success, noted that he would feel a great sense of accomplishment if his achievements are met. "I crave success, I never like when a goal is scored on me, especially if I'm on the losing side at the end of it all."

With outstanding performances in 2006, Cousins captured the schoolboy Walker Cup Knockout trophy against Jamaica College while still attending Eltham High. The all-island football title in Trinidad & Tobago was also amongst his achievements that year in addition to Eltham High claiming the title of the Best Defensive Team at the ISSA presentation ceremony.

In 2010, the achievements of the custodian were significantly bolstered as the 23-year-old won the Under-21 first-round final with Waterhouse FC as well as the business house knock-out trophy and league title with Wisynco.

Now a first choice goalkeeper in the local Premier League at Waterhouse FC, Cousins explained that his attitude towards training and developing his weak areas has helped him to improve as an individual.

"I work very hard on the training pitch becuse I believe that training is a large contributor to my individual success thus far. The league is very physical, and mentally you have to be strong," Cousins noted.

Cousins pointed out that he regards himself as a true professional when it comes on to match preparation."First and foremost, I try to get some rest and keep off my legs. Fluid for me is very essential so I drink a lot of water before a game. I also ensure that my mind stays focused on the role I have to play," he explained.

Continuing the chat, Cousins added that football for him his much more than a game.

"In my view football is joy. It takes away any bad feelings I have whenever I go unto the pitch," Cousins said with a proud smile.

Cousins applauded Donovan Dukie, former national Under-20 coach, and head coach of Waterhouse FC, for the influential role he played while at the Drewsland-based outfit.

"Mr Duckie has thought me a lot, I think his expertise as a coach has developed my goalkeeping abilities. In fact, I also admire the Manchester United legend Edwin Van der Sar. He is a true professional at his craft, a motivator, and always shows consistency," he added.

When quizzed about his memorable moments, Cousins explained that though there are a lot, he would rather recall his individual brilliance.

''My memorable moments are my saves, the greatest joy for me is when I pull off a brilliant save. These are my memorable moments," said Cousins.

In his few words for upcoming talents, Cousins looked to the skies and calmly remarked: "Nothing comes easy, so be sure that you work hard, and even harder in your academics."

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