Page 15 - Fall 2021

to play on the offensive line after a series of injuries seriously affected the team’s traditional lineup. At 5 feet 10 inches and 200 pounds, Samson fought game after game as a starting underclassman on the OCHS varsity team. He’s been a linebacker and fullback.
“The great thing about Samson was that he was physically unmatched the majority of the time he put his hands in the grass,” explained fullback coach, Erik Kriebel. “What helped him stem the tide for us was his attitude. If Samson thought about being unmatched, he didn’t let us know. I don’t know if there is a better example of a young person his age seizing an opportunity.”
Samson’s ability to make the most of any situation stems from his strong Christian faith and deep appreciation for his adoptive parents.
“If they had not brought me into this family, I probably would have never gotten to know who Christ was,” he said. “And I would have probably never gotten to live in a nice home or a nice community. There are a lot of things I am grateful for.”
In addition to his relationship with Christ, Samson has many
mentors, including his father and football coaches. They have instilled in him values of teamwork, strong work ethic and determination. Samson quotes Noland, saying, “You are the only one who can make yourself better. You have to be the one that is willing to become tough when things are hard.”
Samson makes the most of every opportunity and never gives up. His ability to face challenges with a smile impresses coaches. “He always has a smile on his face,” said Kriebel. “Whether he has just gotten beaten on a play or when he had a huge block in practice. He just gets up and has that smile. That consistency is
just really awesome.”
And that consistency is definitely an asset for the OCHS
Warriors, who have competed in the state championship for two years in a row.
With Samson back as a fullback, the coaches are excited to see what he can accomplish for himself and the team. Regardless of what happens this season, spectators can expect to see Samson having the time of his life on the field with the biggest smile on his face.
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FALL 2021 | OCONEE THE MAGAZINE | PAGE 13