WASHINGTON - Gallaudet University athletics is proud to participate in the annual NCAA Division III Week (April 1-7) in an effort to celebrate the impact athletics and Bison student-athletes have on our campus and the surrounding community. GU is joining 434 Division III institutions and 42 voting conferences in this week's celebration.

To help focus on the many student-athletes that represent Gallaudet athletics we will spotlight several student-athletes each day this week. You will learn more about them as they express their feelings on what it is like to be a Division III student-athlete here at Gallaudet. Interviews were conducted by Gallaudet Athletic Communications Graduate Assistant Pia Garreffa and graphics by Athletic Communications Coordinator Bruce Saperstein and BoxOut Sports.

Samson Abraham (Seattle, Wash.) is a first-year student-athlete on the men's soccer program. Abraham majors in Business with a focus on management or administration and is expected to graduate in May 2026.

In My Own Words: Samson Abraham

Q: What is it like to be a student-athlete in college?
SA: The journey of balancing academic and athletic responsibilities as a student-athlete has been both challenging and rewarding. Daily afternoon practices, except on game days, require meticulous planning to complete all academic work. The key has been prioritizing academics while ensuring punctuality for practice and games. Early morning workouts, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring proper recovery before and after games and practices have been essential. Despite the challenges, the rewards of being a student-athlete, such as personal growth and the thrill of competition, have made it all worthwhile.
 
Q: What is it like to be a student-athlete at Gallaudet University?
SA: As a student-athlete at Gallaudet University, I have had a unique experience competing on a team and using primarily ASL for communication. This differs from my experience playing for a hearing team, where communication was often difficult. The academic atmosphere at Gallaudet is close-knit, and the teachers have been exceptionally supportive. A solid foundation for my future career is being set every day!

Q: At what age did you start playing soccer, and how has it changed your life?
SA: I began my soccer journey at age 8, after I walked by a tryout for a local youth-organized soccer club and decided to give it a shot. The tryout changed my life, as I was invited to join the team, and soccer became my passion. It has taught me invaluable life lessons such as teamwork, discipline, and determination. More importantly, it has given me a sense of community and lifelong friendships I cherish.

Q: What was the best memory you made during your first season at Gallaudet?
SA:  The best memory from my first season at Gallaudet was when I played my debut game against University of Valley Forge. I scored the team's first goal and assist of the season, which boosted my confidence for the rest of the season. It was a great experience, and my family and friends who watched me play came up to congratulate me, which made me happy.

Division III Week Student-Athlete Spotlight: In My Words
Monday: Samson Abraham (Men's Soccer)
 
About Division III Week
Division III Week is a positive opportunity for all individuals associated with Division III to observe and celebrate the impact of athletics and of student-athletes on the campus and surrounding community. During the week, every Division III school and conference office is encouraged to conduct a type of outreach activity that falls into one of three categories: academic accomplishment; athletic experience; or leadership/community service/campus involvement. For more information log onto https://www.ncaa.org/sports/2013/11/15/division-iii-week.aspx.
 
About Gallaudet
Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, multicultural institution of higher education that ensures the intellectual and professional advancement of deaf and hard of hearing individuals through American Sign Language and English. Gallaudet maintains a proud tradition of research and scholarly activity and prepares its graduates for career opportunities in a highly competitive, technological, and rapidly changing world. For more information about Gallaudet University please log onto www.gallaudet.edu and visit the Bison athletics homepage at www.gallaudetbison.com.