For junior Amadou Sidibe, late nights are a way of life. Since his sophomore year, Amadou has been a member of Huron varsity men’s soccer. In the fall, four days a week, he gathers his things early in the morning to prepare for the long day ahead at school.

On top of soccer, Amadou is involved in Huron’s African Student Union (ASU) and Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA). Despite his busy schedule, he maintains a 3.99 GPA and keeps his hopes alive of attending the University of Michigan.

Yet, even with all of these commitments, Amadou still finds time for his favorite part of the day—soccer. Four out of five weekdays, he dedicates two hours after school to the sport. When asked about how he balances everything.

“The key to finding balance is staying on top of my schoolwork,” Sidibe said.

Although Huron’s soccer season takes place in the fall, Sidibe plays and trains year-round to stay in top form.

“I make sure that I’m practicing during the offseason so I don’t get too off my game,” he said.

Soccer has been a lifelong passion for Sidibe.

“I’ve played soccer since I was four or five. I found a sport I loved and stuck with it,” he said. “Looking back, soccer has had a huge impact on who I’ve become, and I’m proud of that. The dedication of the players on the team—that’s what makes us special. They’re the reason I push on, even when I don’t want to.”