HMS Alum Salim Yussif '21 Signed by Finnish Professional Football Club

Salim arrived at HMS from his native Ghana in the first group of Black Rock student-athletes. While at HMS, Salim was a top-notch soccer player and respected community member. Scott Miller, Director of the Black Rock FC Residential Academy at High Mowing, recalls "I remember picking him up at the airport, thinking he is about to experience a whole new world. He had a humble confidence that made him easy to like. He asked for nothing and worked for everything.... always with a smile and some faith. Salim clearly had gifted soccer abilities, technically and athletically! He was fun to coach." Robert Sim recalls Salim in class: "In studying different faiths around the world, we created a circle in which sacred texts and prayers were shared. Perhaps the most moving was Salim's recitation of the beginning of the Quran. He spoke it with such profound reverence that all were spellbound."

After graduating from High Mowing, Salim played for two seasons at American International College in Springfield, Massachusetts, with a full scholarship there. As of January 2023, Salim was on loan to SJK in the 2023 season from Vision FC, a youth academy and SJK's partner club. SJK has now signed a 2+2 contract with him, which covers the 2024-2025 seasons and includes a two-year extension option. "I'm very excited to continue playing for SJK! It's been an amazing experience so far and I've enjoyed every moment on the pitch. The team and fans have been incredibly supportive. I'm flattered to be with such talented players. The coaching staff has been very supportive and has helped me develop my skills and adopt the team's style of play. I'm looking forward to the next season and giving my all to SJK again," Salim said of his new contract.

Congratulations, Salim, from your fans at HMS!