Sam Przybys: Finding Her Voice in Sports Media and Communications

When Sam Przybys began her college journey in 2023, she initially set out to study Marine Biology. While she had always been passionate about sports, it wasn’t until her freshman year that her academic path began to shift in a meaningful way. 

A turning point came when she enrolled in an introductory business course with Dr. Kent  Tonkin. That experience encouraged her to explore new possibilities and connect with faculty in the Communications program. With guidance from Dr. Kelly Rhodes and Dr. Patrick Farabaugh, Sam ultimately decided to switch her major to Communications—a move that would redefine her college experience. 

“I decided to come to Saint Francis because of the opportunity to play golf at the Division 1  level, along with the team dynamic,” Sam said. “I loved the campus. It was actually the first college I visited, and I looked at about 10 schools. It was a big adjustment for my first time  being away from school, and being from Cleveland.” 

Finding Her Fit  

Once she transitioned to Communications, everything changed. 

“Once I changed my major, my whole mindset shifted, and I felt much happier,” Sam said. “I  could tell it was because I was under far less stress. I also noticed that my professors genuinely cared about me as a person and wanted me to succeed. In my previous major, I didn’t feel that same level of support, but after switching, it made all the difference.” 

Sam credits her journey to a mindset rooted in perspective and purpose. Guided by her belief that  “everything happens for a reason,” she has embraced both the challenges and opportunities that have shaped her experience. She reflects on how even the smallest decisions can lead to entirely different outcomes—something she carries with her each day. 

Telling the Story of the Game  

Sam has fully immersed herself in the world of sports media, combining her lifelong passion for athletics with her growing skills in communications. 

In addition to sideline reporting for football, she expanded her role to include basketball coverage. She also became involved with the Troubadour, Saint Francis University’s student newspaper, where Dr. Farabaugh later offered her the opportunity to serve as Sports Editor. 

Through her work, Sam has developed as both a storyteller and a communicator. She regularly writes feature pieces, conducts interviews with athletes, coaches, and members of the campus community, and produces on-camera reporting segments for NEC Front Row broadcasts. 

A few days before each game, she is assigned story ideas, which she develops into written and on-air pieces. Working closely with Dr. Farabaugh, she refines her writing and presentation skills throughout the week. After each broadcast, she reviews her work to evaluate her performance and continue improving. 

“I’ve loved sports from a young age, especially with being a multi-sport athlete my whole life,”  Sam said. “Whenever I am in a sports environment, I enjoy what I am doing a lot more. By applying my skills in sideline and courtside reporting, I am much more comfortable speaking in front of an audience. I have been able to tell a story in each package that I deliver.” 

Balancing It All  

Alongside her academic and professional pursuits, Sam remains a dedicated member of the women’s golf team while managing a full course load within the Shields School of Business.  Through it all, she has learned the importance of balance and self-care. 

Each day begins with a workout, providing her with time for reflection and focus. She has also prioritized her faith and personal growth, recognizing the importance of stepping back and recharging amid a busy schedule. 

While she thrives on staying active and involved, Sam has come to understand that without intentional downtime, burnout can quickly follow—a lesson that has shaped how she approaches both her work and her well-being. 

Lessons That Last  

As she reflects on her time at Saint Francis University, Sam points to resilience and perspective  as two of the most important lessons she will carry forward. 

“When the announcement happened about the transition, it was so unexpected and brought upon us with no warning whatsoever,” she said. “I lost so many of my friends through the transfer portal, which still breaks my heart to this day. Life throws obstacles in your path, but how you  respond is what defines you.” 

Her experience has reinforced the importance of living in the moment and appreciating every opportunity. 

“Staying positive is key and living each day with a smile on your face is what matters, and  something I try to do daily.” 

The Power of “And”  

At Saint Francis University, Sam has embraced the opportunity to be both a student-athlete and a storyteller—balancing academics, athletics, and hands-on experience in a way that reflects the  University’s mission. 

By combining her passion for sports with her skills in communications, she has discovered not  just a career path, but a purpose—one that allows her to tell meaningful stories while doing what  she loves.