Kamer Nuhiu- Kosovo, Conflict, Camaraderie!
Kamer is a really great human being to connect with and a beast of a player on the field. His technical ability belies the players who stem from the Balkans. Born in Kosovo, the devout. Arsenal fan was one of 8 siblings raised by both parents. Entering the world a year after the region was ravaged by war, he was spared the worst his people had to endure. Nevertheless, the effects of the war would soon affect his family in a lasting way.
The Early Years
At four years old, Kamer’s father had to emigrate to the United States as the state of Kosovo post war was dire. Being the last of his siblings, he was fortunate to enjoy their care along with other family members and an endearing community. Kamer would only see his father two weeks per year and his mother 6 times per year as his parents had to follow the strict rules imposed on them by immigration policies that limited travel. To add to this, being employed also limited the amount of time they could spare to see their loved ones in a ravaged homeland so far away.
Falling In and Out of Love
The Nuhiu family attempted to rebuild their lives in Kosovo but it ultimately proved futile. By the time Kamer turned 10, he was whisked off to the ´New World’.
Coming from a football (soccer) rich region of the world, it was easy to see how a young Kamer would develop an undying passion for the game. As his skill grew, so did his confidence. Playing only around 6 games of high school soccer, an opportunity to play for FC Köln arose.
15 kids from across America and Canada were selected through an exchange program called American Eagles. Each morning for a month and a half he would get up early and handle academic challenges then the rest of the day was a soccer grind. This was the challenge a young Kamer needed as the levels met his expectations.
After a great first year of college, Kamer Nuhiu saw his love for the sport wane. He still speaks glowingly about his teammates and college to the point where he has chosen to continue his studies at University of Hartford where he now pursues an MBA in business.
Love the school and players. I lost the love for the sport because of my relationship with my coach sophomore year.
A Brighter Future
Having enjoyed European and collegiate exposure, Kamer at 23 has set his sights on familial affairs and personal responsibilities.
I’m now a coach. I coach younger kids. I’ve moved on. I have nephews who love the sport who I help. I’ve shifted my mindset since I’ve realized and accepted that at my age I won’t make it pro.
Before moving on, the Kosovar made one more effort to extend himself in his dream of playing professionally.
I went to a Hartford Athletic combine. I was selected to the invitation only camp. At that time I was working and going to school full time. I wasn’t at the level where I should have been because of my commitments. I was offered contracts where I would have been loaned out to Western Mass Pioneers. I didn’t take the offer. Notwithstanding, the salary was not sufficient to sustain me and my commitments.
On a Personal Note
Honestly man, it’s soccer
Favorite Players
Thierry Henry and Bukayo Saka
When pressed about hobbies or hidden talents Kamer was reluctant to speak of anything but soccer. Two winters past, he picked up skiing as a hobby as there was naught else to do and he found a new group of friends who enjoyed skiing.
In warmer climes and less frosty times, fishing is an activity that would capture the steely strikers attention.
Truly a friendly and open person Kamer has found a career path that allows the best of himself to shine. Working in Agawam in HR, he enjoys helping young employees navigate the upward trajectory to corporate success. Our hope is that with each shot aimed in 3rd Eye FC’s UPSL season, the trajectory will be the back of the net!
@3rdeyefc- Instagram, FB and TikTok
Photography by @davis_media88 IG
Subscribe to Soccer Coach TV- YouTube/TikTok
VICTORY IS BORN OF HARMONY
