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Sam Salz is a Division One level American footballer at Texas A&M University . The wide receiver is currently the only observant Jewish athlete competing at a level this high. Despite not having played football before college, Sam has reached incredible levels.
Growing up in Pennsylvania, he originally wanted to play football in his small Jewish high school but was unable to do so as they didn't have a team. Sam played other sports during his time at Kohelet Yeshiva High School but when he arrived at college he decided it was time to try football - properly. Although he started his journey quite late, he has achieved a lot and aspires to join the NFL, adding him to the list of the 319 Texas A&M alumni that have played or currently play in the NFL.
This has been an incredible journey for Sam, as he has managed to get so far, despite only having played for a short time. Sam said “everything was orchestrated by God'' for him to be in the position he is in now, but his hard work and constant training outside of practice only helped him improve. “I would make myself known and prioritise connections by going on the head coach's radio show/” before then being given an opportunity in October 2022.”
Being Jewish is a major part of Sam’s life alongside his athletic success, and although he described it as a ‘unique combination’, it has encouraged Sam to use his platform for the better and spread the right message.
“Brand growth is very important to me, I want to be a motivational speaker, I want people to be inspired, and I want to bring my message to more people.” When asked who his social media influences are, Sam said that “the greatest person you can look up to is yourself in the future.”
When asked about Judaism, Sam said “it means everything to me, it's a way of life.” Praying several times a day, wearing tallit and a yarmulke and checking if food is kosher is just part of his daily life, reminding God how grateful he is. Showing his devotion to God, he states that he started wrapping tape on his arm with the words ‘עבדו את השם בשמחה’ which translates to “serving joy to God”.
Reflecting on if he has fulfilled his services, Sam reiterated his gratitude towards God and his dedication to having an impact on society by doing something he loves.
“I’m never going to say I'm incredible and perfect, but I am blessed to be where I am. God put me in these circumstances. I can work on different things but I strive for greatness. Ultimately I want to become a better servant to God through it.”
Throughout his footballing career so far, Sam has been very lucky with the lack of challenges he has faced religiously . He considers these to be a form of self-improvement as well as the mental side of the game. “There’s always time to grow and improve, getting playing time and competing for a spot on the field. There's room to learn.”
Having faced no religious struggles whilst competing makes Sam very privileged and with the support from his coaches and teammates, it has inspired him. “ Coming across as respectful of yourself and your own beliefs breeds respect in others towards you.”
When asked about future aspirations, Sam said he wants to get as far as possible in his football career and be the best example to his “Jewish brothers and sisters.” The lifelong Eagles fan also said he would love to catch a pass from Jalen Hurts one day.
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