Out Of Nowhere

Tom Bouchard’s soccer team faces off against the highly skilled players of Maquoit High School, known for their involvement in elite soccer clubs and programs. Cherisse, Tom’s girlfriend, and Donnie, his childhood friend, watch from the sidelines. During the game, Tom collides with another player and is knocked down, prompting concern from both his teammate, Saeed, a Somali immigrant, and Maquoit’s captain, Alex Rhodes. Saeed helps Tom back to his feet, and after the game, Tom interacts with Saeed’s sister, Samira. Tom gets a feeling that Samira does not like him.

Saeed and Samira are among a growing number of Somali students at Tom’s high school, representing a trend of Somali refugees relocating to small towns like Enniston, Maine. As a result of racism and suspicion of those deemed outsiders, many of these new arrivals experience exclusion within the community.

Tom’s Uncle Paul questions him about the Somali players on his soccer team. As captain, Tom admits his part in helping Saeed join, even forging a medical form for Saeed due to his lack of insurance.