Sampson is the real deal

BY SCOTT HADDOW

When Lockerby's Chris Sampson started in football, way back in Grade 9, defence was the only thing on his mind.

Employed a feisty defensive back, Sampson cut his teeth swatting footballs out of the hands of receivers looking to score.

Now, three seasons later, Sampson is doing everything in his power to get the football into the hands of receivers.
Sampson is the starting quarterback for the Lockerby Vikings senior boys' football team, his second season at the helm.

He sports a powerful arm and accurate throw. He's armed with four years of extensive high school experience.

Sampson is in his senior and final high school year and has improved every year. He wants to finish on a high note by helping his team take the city championship by force, honouring their moniker in true fashion.

The Vikings feature a menacing defence, led by Kevin Stradiotto. They pack a wallop and pummel teams off the field. When their dirty work is done, Sampson and the offence step into shine and score points.

In their first three games, the offence has put up 112 points.

Sampson has been a key cog in driving this offensive machine.

His rise to the top of the heap of local quarterbacks has been remarkable. In his first season as quarterback, Sampson, playing behind stand-out Brett McKnight, was just a small blip on the radar screen, throwing for just 63 yards and no touchdowns. Last season, he was third in passing yards with 557 and also threw for three touchdowns.

In his first three games this season, Sampson has 420 passing yards and three touchdowns. Sampson is one of the top quarterbacks overall in Sudbury and he relishes the role of being a guy counted upon time and time again to deliver strong performances.

"It's a pressure situation, but it's a good situation for me," the 17-year-old said. "It's exactly where I want to be. I am a competitive person and I love to win and help the team win."

As a veteran, Sampson has assumed a role as a leader, but is quick to point out he's not doing it alone.

"I don't try and lead by myself," the Grade 12 student said. "We have a lot of great older players who can also lead. We lead as a group to get things done. We push each other all the time to be the best."

Sampson is savouring every second he's on the field.

"My motivation is the fact it's my last year," the fourth year veteran said. "It could be the last time I play competitive football. I'm making the most of it. I am leaving everything on the field...I want no regrets."

Sampson has been cornerstone for the Vikings in his tenure.

"The curve in which Chris has improved has been phenomenal," Vikings head coach Geoff Richer said. "He started off as a defensive back and then progressed into a quarterback. He has shown great athleticism and toughness every year. He's improved every year because he works hard every day."

Sampson has earned the trust of his coaches.

"Chris has the maturity to always make the smart play," Richer said. "He works well with everyone and has everyone's respect. I expect big things out of him and I know he expects big things out of himself."

Football has been a positive for Sampson in his life.

"I've made a lot of friends," Sampson said. "By joining the team in Grade 9, it opened the school up to me and allowed me to meet more people...it's been a great experience."

Catch Sampson and the gang today at Lo-Ellen Park at 3:30 as they take on the Knights.