NHTI Athletic Hall of Fame
A dominant figure on the soccer field for our Lynx, Nick helped our men’s soccer team compete at the very highest level playing for Coach Derek Johnson. From his midfield position and his duties as one of the team captains, Nick led by example helping our Lynx dominate the YSCC with consecutive seasons of unblemished play with conference championships.
The real story with Nick was his ability to relate and have fun with his teammates at NHTI. His gentle laugh and big smile told the every day story to his teammates and classmates about his ability to blend in here at NHTI.
A team first guy in every aspect, Nick led by example only cared about conference championships, team wins and national championship runs.
It was never about his goal scoring or statistics. Quiet and unassuming, Nick Papamichael set high standards with his play but also with a great work ethic. A masterful player who acted like the quarterback on the field directing teammates, scoring goals and controlling the tempo of every game helped make Nick a coach’s dream.
Nick made an immediate impact on the squad from the center of midfield playing with a high-level skill, understanding how to use angles, and using his exquisite first touch to set up teammates or make himself a serious threat to score. Nick was also a really good ball winner and had superb timing in this area as well.
A two-time USCAA All-American, Nick’s leadership came to full prominence during the 2008 National Tournament. In the 1st game against the previously undefeated Penn College he scored two goals in a 4-2 win, and then in the National semi-final Nick had an assist as NHTI defeated the hosts Rochester College to advance to the finals. In the championship game, our Lynx lost the game 2-1 on a penalty kick in the late stages of the game.
Nick’s followed up his 2008 season with a tremendous 2009 season. He was named YSCC Player of the Year served team captain and led us to a second straight YSCC title and another trip to the National Tournament.
On another note, Nick also was a tremendous bowler and a member of our spring bowling team while earning a Sports Management degree here at NHTI. After graduation from NHTI, Nick went onto be play at Southern NH University and was invited to try out for the New England Revolution reserve team but a second tear of his ACL brought an end to his professional career aspirations.
He lives in Allenstown, NH with his wife Sarah and son Maverick Vaughn Papamichael (or MVP). Happy anniversary to Nick & Sarah.
On behalf of NHTI Athletics, let’s welcome Nick Papamichael on stage for his induction to the NHTI Athletic Hall of Fame.
