News Summary
Jarred Samples, a distinguished alumnus of the University of Dallas, has been appointed as the new Director of Athletics. With a rich history in coaching and a commitment to enhancing the athletics program, Samples aims to foster a sense of community and build character among student-athletes. His experiences as a student-athlete and coach have shaped his vision for athletics at the university, emphasizing moral development and a supportive environment for all involved.
Dallas, Texas – Jarred Samples, the Director of Athletics at the University of Dallas, reflects on his extensive history with the university, highlighting his journey from student-athlete to a leadership role overseeing the athletic program. Samples, who first learned about the University of Dallas through the men’s basketball coach’s recruiting letter, was drawn to the institution’s strong academic reputation, which ultimately influenced his decision to attend.
Throughout his career, Samples has had notable success as a coach, with one of his most memorable achievements coming during the 2018-19 season. Under his leadership, the men’s basketball team reached the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) Championships. Although the team lost in a heart-wrenching double overtime in the championship game, Samples termed the atmosphere during the event as “unbelievable,” showcasing his deep commitment to the program and the experience of the student-athletes.
As he steps into the role of Athletic Director, Samples is determined to make the athletics program a central unifying force for the University of Dallas community. He believes that sports can serve as a rallying point, fostering a sense of belonging and pride among students, alumni, and faculty alike.
In his vision for the athletics program, Samples emphasizes the significance of developing moral character in student-athletes. Integral to this belief are qualities such as commitment, teamwork, sacrifice, discipline, integrity, time management, perseverance, and humility. He advocates for the collegiate athletic experience to serve as a platform to cultivate these traits, equipping students for success beyond their time at university.
However, Samples acknowledges that the coaching profession is not without its challenges. One of the main obstacles he has faced is time management, navigating the demands of work while balancing family responsibilities. The commitment to team improvement often required extensive travel, film analysis, and recruiting efforts, which made it difficult for him to disconnect from work when at home. Despite these hurdles, Samples finds meaning in his work.
Moving from the coaching sphere to the role of Athletic Director, Samples appreciates the broader scope that comes with overseeing the entire athletic department. Nevertheless, he also admits to missing the close personal relationships forged with players during his coaching career. He values the daily interactions that allowed him to witness the personal and athletic growth of the student-athletes he mentored.
As the Athletic Director, Samples recognizes that his role is crucial in fostering a positive athletic environment not only for student-athletes but also for coaches and administrators. While this leadership position might lack the personal touch that characterizes direct coaching, he is committed to ensuring that the culture within the athletics department remains one of support, respect, and excellence.
Samples’ journey from a student-athlete to a coach and, ultimately, to the Director of Athletics is a testament to his dedication to the University of Dallas and its students. His vision for the athletics program seeks to inspire a strong community spirit and build character among student-athletes, preparing them for their future endeavors, both on and off the field.
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Additional Resources
- NSU Sharks: Dallas Graziani Roster
- Wikipedia: Dallas
- Centenary College: Men’s Basketball Update
- Google Search: Dallas Athletics
- WKU Sports: Baseball Update
- Google Scholar: Dallas Athletics
- Rice Owls: Men’s Basketball Loss
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dallas Sports
