CANOVILLE, Paul
Professional footballer
Born in Southall to Caribbean parents in 1962, Paul Canoville’s career in football started with Hillingdon FC. In 1981 he signed with Chelsea FC, becoming their first black player. This was both an enjoyable and difficult time, having to deal with constant racial abuse from fans and members of his own team. Paul went on to play for Chelsea for five years and was sold to Reading in 1986 where he sustained a cartilage injury. Following his injuries, he attempted a comeback playing for non-league teams such as Enfield, Maidenhead United and Burnham but was forced to retire at 27. Pau|'s ability to triumph over adversity was also in evidence when he was diagnosed with non- Hodgkin's Lymphoma, an aggressive form of cancer from which he successfully made a full recovery. In 2008 he wrote his frank and honestbiography, Black and Blue, outlining his football career, which won him the award for Best Sports Author in 2009. Paul began working with children through library workshops organised by the Achives Centre and is now as assistant teacher in Westminster.
"Football is a great game but you may not make it in the game. Have a back-up plan. Education is a must - without that you could be left stranded."