SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - One football player at American International College in Springfield has the chance to take his football career to the next level after he was invited to take part in an NFL Pro Day in Worcester.
With 17 touchdowns, over 1,600 rushing yards, and a two-time captain at AIC, Sidiki Kone is taking his skills to the next level. “These scouts, within all 32 NFL organizations, are on a quest to find that hidden gem or to find that guy that’s maybe undervalued,” said AIC head football coach Daniel Chipka.
Chipka said Kone is just that. “I know that we have one here at AIC. I think that the community, the institution, the coaches, and then the players can all see that and it’s inspiring,” he added.
A Bronx, NY native, Kone’s parents being from Guinea, West Africa, and using his religion to guide him, he is an epitome of representation. He said it feels amazing to showcase his background from different communities throughout his career. “It’s bigger than football, trying to make sure I’m helping the next person, be a better man, be a better person, lead them on the right path and make sure I’m being a good example,” he explained.
Despite his long list of football accolades, Kone said his biggest college accomplishment is starting the Muslim Student Association at AIC. “Definitely knowing yourself is truly important, having something you can lean back on is truly important, how you carry yourself, your morales, your values, and ethics,” he added.
The journey wasn’t always easy between navigating recruiting during COVID019 and then having to earn his starting spot on the team. Chipka said all this prepared him for his pro day. “Now, he’s kinda doing the same thing. I’ll be ready at the next level, he’s preparing for this pinata opportunity with the NFL, with the professional ranks that’s coming,” Chipka noted
As a Muslim, Kone fasts from sunup till sundown through the month of Ramadan which, he said, has helped him in many aspects of his journey. “It strengthens me mentally, physically, psychotically, spiritually. I feel like fasting has prepared me for this moment,” he said.
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