Aboubacar Camara was working a 9-5 job in Philadelphia – one that he didn't particularly enjoy – when he got an offer to play for Portland Hearts of Pine. He jumped at the opportunity.
A prolific scorer at the University of Louisville, University of Kentucky, and Pennsylvania State University, the 24-year-old was now going to test his abilities at the professional level.
The first game was a success, as he scored a late goal against the New York Cosmos. A drought followed, in part because of injury and being down the depth chart. He's now scored four goals in his last four appearances.
"I told myself, every game, I've got to make sure I take the opportunity because I don't want to be in the same situation I was in," Camara said. "I'll just make sure I work my ass off and just always stay ready because your opportunity might come."
Head coach Bobby Murphy said that Camara's scoring ability was undeniable, as he tallied 5 goals in 11 games at Penn State. What's impressed him the most, though, is how he’s adjusted to a new level and system.
Murphy noted that against Brooklyn FC, Camara lost his man on a corner kick. The story was different against the Richmond Kickers, as he fought off a late cramp to get back in the box to mark his opponent.
The defensive effort was the little thing; his first professional brace was the big thing.
"Abou has taken his opportunity well," Murphy said. "He's learned lessons along the way. You haven't had to tell him twice. I think that his first goal, the composure to go around the keeper and not panic, was pretty fantastic."
Hearts could soon add some reinforcements on the attacking end, with Murphy saying they're looking for an American striker so they can avoid the visa process. News could come in the next week.
Regardless, Camara is committed to giving everything he has to help Hearts, who gave him the chance to play professional soccer.
"I'm really grateful," Camara said. "Soccer is what I want to do. I want to shout out Bobby for giving me the chance."
