Meet Compton Smith, a seasoned coach whose dedication to Highfield Rangers spans decades and generations.

Currently leading the Under 11s and men’s reserves teams, Compton's journey in football began at age 16 as a player before transitioning into coaching in 1992, following a local parent’s request for guidance for a youth team. Compton is celebrated for his commitment to instilling confidence and joy in young players, helping them develop their skills and self-belief on and off the field.

What do you enjoy the most about coaching?

I enjoy putting a smile on a young person’s face when they’ve mastered a drill I gave them. They get to walk away proudly, saying, "Look what I can do." It’s about giving them confidence, letting them know they are valued and good enough, helping build their self-belief. For anyone, especially young Black individuals wanting to get into coaching, it’s rewarding to see that joy in a child’s face. No one can take that away when you’re contributing to their growth.

That’s why it’s important to keep doing this for the next generation—to show them they can do this, no matter their level, as long as they do their best.

What has your experience been like as a Black coach?

As a Black coach, there are challenges. One noticeable thing is the reaction from other coaches when we play against their teams. Some are complimentary, saying, “Your team plays well.” But others, especially if my team wins convincingly, don’t say much—they just give you a look.

Historically, there haven’t been many Black coaches in football. Why do you think that is? 

I think we’re often striving to break into established football clubs, where Black coaches are still underrepresented. The fact is, we’re in a competitive field. I believe there need to be more Black football clubs, which would provide more opportunities for young Black coaches as they start their coaching journeys.

Who were your role models growing up?

Growing up, I was inspired by political figures like Benjamin Zephaniah and Linton Quincy Johnson. On the football side, there were players like Viv Anderson, Brendon Batson, and Laurie Cunningham. Going back further to the early 70s, players like Clyde Best, who played for West Ham, also stood out. Watching these individuals push boundaries and demonstrate that Black players could excel—playing with flair and determination, even in winter conditions—was inspiring.

I’m proud of the progress Black players, especially those from the Caribbean, have made in football.

Why do you think Black History Month is important?

It’s important to recognize the skills and contributions we’ve made in this country. I think there should be more awards and recognition for Black people, so they see that their efforts are noticed and valued. If we wait on traditional organizations to give us awards, we could be waiting a long time. So it’s valuable to have our own forms of recognition.

Recording our history and achievements has sometimes been a struggle. That’s why Black History Month and awards are important—they show the next generation that we’re documenting what our parents and grandparents achieved after arriving here in the 50s and beyond.

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