Danté Leverock says his move to Estonia has been a “dramatic transition” but believes this season has already been the most rewarding of his career.

The Bermuda defender joined Narva Trans in January and has cemented himself as a first-team regular at the top-flight side, making 17 appearances and scoring five goals this season.

Leverock also achieved his ambition of experiencing a top European competition, playing in both legs of his side’s Europa League first-round qualifier against Zeljeznicar Sarajevo earlier this month.

Although Narva Trans lost 5-1 on aggregate to their Bosnian opponents, Leverock said he learnt plenty from those matches and is hungry for more European football.

“I want to play at the highest level possible,” Leverock told football blog It’s Round And It’s White. “This year, of course, has broken many records for me. Playing in top-flight football, playing in the Europa League qualifying section.

“Although, I want more. I’d like to experience some Champions League football some day. I want to keep on improving and playing at higher and higher levels. I’ve dedicated this season to my late father, Collins Smith, who I can imagine would be incredibly proud.”

With Narva Trans still in the Estonian Cup and chasing a top-three finish, Leverock still has plenty to play for this term.

“I’ve only been here a relatively short time, but I’m enjoying life here, living out my dream and all,” he said.

“The people, especially my team-mates have been very welcoming which has helped no end. Some of my family members have visited me, too, which has assisted me with this dramatic transition.

“We want to finish in the top three. As high as possible, but top three is certainly the target. It’d be disappointing to end the season anywhere other than that. Right now we are fourth, but applying pressure to the others. I want to do my bit at the back and keep a few clean sheets, as well as help out with a goal or two and hopefully, we can achieve our goals.”

Leverock has even started learning Russian, the prominent language in the region, in an effort to ingratiate himself with his new team-mates and embrace the culture.

“Here in Narva, people tend to speak Russian,” he said. “Narva is essentially on the border, next door to Russia.

“We are actually closer to St Petersburg than we are the Estonian capital, Tallinn. I’m learning Russian slowly, but it’s worth it to have a better quality of life.”

Leverock, who enjoyed two seasons at Harrisburg City Islanders in the United Soccer League before spending six months at English non-League outfit Ilkeston, admits there were times when he doubted whether he was good enough to make the grade. However, his experiences in Estonia have bolstered his confidence and he believes those tough times, especially in England, have helped shape him as a person.

“I had gone through parts of my life doubting my ability, thinking I couldn’t cut it as a professional,” Leverock said. “I was wrong, the hard work paid off and here I am playing in a top continental competition.

“The lower leagues of England turned me into the player I am today. It was there, in the places like the New Manor Ground, [where] I learnt the importance of being strong.

“In those divisions, you simply have to stand tall with the ball at your feet. Otherwise, the opposition has already taken the ball and scored.

“Ilkeston was a strange experience. There’s a great chap called Paul Scope [the former Bermuda assistant coach]. He’s been instrumental in giving Bermudian players opportunities to play overseas.

“I wanted to go there and show what I could do, but before too long it was obvious there was trouble. Serious financial difficulty. Not being paid. Not pleasant for anyone. Overall though, a great ground with some fantastic fans.

“I was reading the other day they are doing well under new ownership. That made me happy to know they’ve bounced back.”

The former Dandy Town player had only been at Ilkeston for a few weeks when Shaun Goater was appointed as the manager.

“[Shaun] had great experience and was very knowledgeable about the game,” Leverock said. “He found it easy to relate to players; which made it a very enjoyable experience.

“I’d describe my time at Ilkeston to be a tough challenge, but the time with him made it all worth it as I learnt a lot in a short time.”

It was during Leverock’s time in England when he became more disciplined both on and off the field.

“Bermuda has a more relaxed atmosphere,” he said. “We say that ‘everything is on Bermuda time’. Meaning that we shouldn’t stress or worry. Just relax. Whilst that’s a beautiful mantra for a beautiful country, it doesn’t help professional athletes’ careers. That’s why I moved to England. It’s a serious place. Especially when it comes to sport.

“I felt disciplined, but with an overall goal. I enjoyed my time in England as it allowed me to become the smart professional I am today.

“Estonia is more reserved. It’s a culture based on respect and trust. So initially it can seem a little cold. Yet, in a relationship people tend to be a lot more open. I really enjoy learning about different cultures, so I’d be happy anywhere as long as there are notable things to observe and learn. That said, I do miss Bermudian food.”

The 26-year-old will likely be a key cog in Bermuda’s defence when they travel to Aruba for their opening Concacaf Nations League qualifier next month.

“Representing my country is always an honour,” Leverock said. “This year we have the Concacaf Nations League, I really want to get involved with that competition. I want to be someone who can make a difference to the national side and bring a bit of pride into Bermudian football and people saying: “Hey, that’s my country’s team!”