As Jordan Knight took a well-earned break from pushing wheelbarrows of concrete around the construction site his gaze fell on an article in the newspaper.

The advert for the Kent Law Programme at Bermuda College flicked a switch in the young man and he decided to apply for the training scheme.

It was a decision that was to change his life and yesterday he was joined by proud family, friends and colleagues as he was Called to the Bar before Chief Justice Ian Kawaley.

The 29-year-old basketball star, who has represented Bermuda in international competitions, completed the programme while working shifts at LF Wade International as a customs officer.

Mr Knight was then sponsored by customs to pursue his legal studies at the University of Kent in England before graduating from the University of Law in London with his Legal Practice Course qualification.

He returned to Bermuda where he completed his pupillage with the Attorney-General’s Chambers and local firm MJM.

His pupil master Alan Dunch told yesterday’s Call to the Bar ceremony: “Jordan has proven to be extraordinarily bright and talented, and is not afraid of hard work.

“What I also really like about him is he is not afraid to argue with his elders and tell them they are wrong.”

Mr Knight, who was joined by his wife Elaine Dainty, mother and father Judy and Trevor Knight, as well as his two sisters Samantha and Andrea at Commercial Court, will continue to work for MJM in private practice.

He thanked his friends and family for their support, as well as his colleagues in the Customs Department with whom he worked for nine years.

“Every contribution is greatly appreciated and I will strive to be a positive presence in the community,” Mr Knight said.

Chief Justice Kawaley welcomed Mr Knight to the Bermuda Bar and urged him to “never become too old to learn”.

“Litigation is very much a form of sport and there are very clear rules without which the game cannot be played at all,” said Mr Justice Kawaley. “The players who are the most successful are the ones who play within the rules and I would encourage you to appreciate the importance of good sportsmanship in your conduct in litigation.”