It hasn’t been an easy journey for Sidney Nicol.
But all the trials and tribulations have led the Liberia native to the George Washington High School soccer team.
And he couldn’t be happier.
After growing up in Liberia, Nicol moved to Nigeria as a kid in hopes of getting a better education. Five years later — after earning a certificate in carpentry from a trade school — he headed back to Liberia to live with his mother and siblings.
Then, in July 2006, Nicol was given the opportunity of a lifetime.
"When I came to the United States, my mom set up that I go to Washington High School," he said. "It was by the grace of God that I’m standing here right now. Living there was not an easy time. To survive there for fourteen years is not an easy thing.
"Every night I go to bed, and when I look up I can see the bright shiny stars of my country," he continued. "A lot of people wanted to get here, and they didn’t make it."
As a result, Nicol is living every moment to the fullest and making the most of his time in America. Initially, the transition was rough and Nicol was struggling in his classes. However, it didn’t take long for him to improve his grades and join the Eagles’ soccer team.
"When I came to Washington I met my coach in class, and that’s how I became involved with the soccer team," said Nicol, who played soccer for squads in Liberia and Nigeria for five years. "It’s the best for me right now. This school has given me everything I need."
The sweeper has helped the Eagles grab first place in the Philadelphia Public League A Division, finishing the regular season 6-1-1. They went on to beat Furness Horace High School, 4-1, in the first round of the playoffs, and later defeated Samuel Fels High School, 3-0, in the quarterfinals.
The season came to an end, however, after a 1-0 loss to Central High School in the semifinals on Oct. 24.
"Everyone was hoping that we were going to win today," said Nicol. "I think everyone thought we would win today. But the team did not give all that we had."
"They scored a goal and we didn’t — what else can I say?" added coach Earl Mathes. "We pressed them and pressed them, but they really carried the play at the end of the game. But the fact of the matter is they kept us out of the goal. It’s unfortunate. We had beaten them earlier in the season. And to lose like this is tough."
It was especially difficult for Nicol.
"I can say from the bottom of my heart that I was playing to win this year," said Nicol, who was team captain and named first-team All-Public. "I wanted to get to the end and make Washington proud."
The Northeast Philadelphia resident intends to return to the squad next year and give postseason play another try. For now, though, he has other meaningful things to concentrate on.
"The most important thing is to focus on my education," said Nicol, who is enjoying his English class the most this year. "I like Washington. They are always encouraging me during my lessons. They taught me that you have to always do your best in class. I’m very thankful for each and every one of my teachers."
While the language barrier and cultural differences are challenging for anyone new to America, Nicol seems to have no problem fitting in.
"He was quiet in the beginning. He just went about his business and did what he had to do in class," said Mathes. "But the more he got acclimated with the United States, the more his aggressiveness showed. And it was the same way on the soccer field."
Nicol thinks his transition has gone well.
"It was kind of easy for me because in my country I speak English and I associated myself with different people, so it wasn’t hard for me," added Nicol. "Coach was helpful too. I really like my coach. He’s taught me a lot about playing sweeper and has helped me in school."
For Mathes, the feeling is mutual.
"I really like him because he has some personality to him," said Mathes. "He’s also brought some diversity with him. He’s a character. He’s a really likable guy. And he can control a game — he has that much ability."
If Nicol continues finding success on and off the field, the possibilities are endless.
"He knew grades come first and soccer comes second," said Mathes. "And if he succeeds at this level, he could probably get a college scholarship — that’s how good he is. In two years he could be going somewhere, with them paying his way."
Nicol is in no rush for college plans or commitments. But his mind is on the right track.
"Right now, I’m focusing on my education," said Nicol. "Soccer is something that I really want to play. I have fun playing. But no matter what happens with soccer, my education will always take me forward." ••
Sports editor Melissa Yerkov can be reached at 215-354-3035 or myerkov@phillynews.com