Behind the fortified gates of Trinidad and Tobago’s Youth Transformation and Rehabilitation Centre (YTC) in Arouca, 25-year-old Ainsley Grazette is redefining redemption through football. Despite being detained for seven years and awaiting trial for murder, Grazette made history on October 25 by becoming the first YTC resident to compete professionally in the TT Premier Football League tier one, scoring a decisive goal for Prisons FC in his debut match.
Grazette’s journey began in Carenage, where sports were embedded in his family legacy. His mother was an accomplished footballer, and relatives excelled in national tennis. However, his path was derailed by community gang violence, leading to his incarceration. “When I got incarcerated, I sat down and studied my situation,” Grazette recalled. “The same friends I considered… put me through this, but they weren’t there.”
His transformation accelerated through mentorship from Sean Reyes, who oversees YTC’s gym program. Starting as a groundskeeper, Grazette progressed to ball boy before his technical prowess caught coaches’ attention. His integration into prison football teams culminated in the historic professional debut where he scored in the ninth minute, securing a 3-2 victory against Caledonia AIA.
The emotional impact was profound. “Seeing young fellas I grew with calling my number—it brought tears to my eyes,” Grazette shared. His success has inspired younger detainees, with children as young as 12 now seeking football opportunities.
Reyes emphasized YTC’s rehabilitative philosophy: “You can’t want to rehabilitate somebody and have them locked down 24/7. That builds hatred.” The facility employs sports, education, and cultural programs to redirect energies positively. Despite external skepticism about privileges for those charged with serious crimes, Reyes maintains that holistic engagement is essential for meaningful rehabilitation.
Prisons FC coach Dexter Cyrus praised Grazette’s discipline and seamless team integration. The squad now eyes a top-three finish for continental qualification. Grazette remains committed: “Whatever the coach asks, I’m doing it. This year is our year.”
His message to incarcerated youth is unequivocal: “The sky is the limit no matter where you are. Don’t ever be ashamed to be a good person.”