HAMDEN, Conn. (BVM) —  A hero is a person who brings hope in the most dire of situations. We look for hope because that’s what inspires us, keeps us going, and most of all, brings a smile to our faces. That is exactly what Hamden High School soccer player, Kobe Gordon, has consistently been able to do both on and off the field. 

Gordon was born and raised in Hamden, Conn. to an American mother and Jamaican father. His love for soccer began at a very young age. When he was 7-years-old, Gordon played for Purple FC, a local club in the Hamden League. His journey in the sport would take him to several teams across several leagues, until he finally made it to Hamden High School where he played JV in his freshman year and varsity in his junior and senior years.

During his time at Hamden High, Gordon recalls a game against Hopkins High School where two players, who were friends of his, were on the opposing team. Hamden High trailed 2-0 for a majority of the game before conjuring up some late game magic where the team scored two goals to equalize it. Those clutch goals sent it to penalties where Gordon scored another goal and helped his team to victory. 

“That was probably the best game I’ve ever played,” Gordon said. “I know that if I keep playing like that, there’ll be more success in my life and more ‘W’s.’”

Gordon’s heroics however, aren’t just only displayed on the soccer field, he brings it to his community. When he’s not on the field, Gordon dedicates a lot of his time giving back to his community. On Thanksgiving, he gives out baskets through the “Pathfinders” group at his church and delivers hot meals to the residents of his local nursing home known as the “Arden House.” He has recently assisted the Help Community Service Department at his church’s new building. He even said that he wants soccer to give him the ability to “give back to his community.”

“Their smiles on their faces,” Gordon said when asked what he loves most about his charity work. “Just seeing a smile on their face means that I’ve accomplished something.” 

The Hamden native is truly number one in the hearts of the people in his community and relishes the opportunity to give back. 

When it comes to his game, Gordon admires Chelsea and French star N’golo Kante and Juventus and Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, taking from each of their skill sets. Gordon recently graduated high school and will go on to take his talents to Albertus Magnus College, a Division III school in New Haven, Conn.