Sam Jenkins

Congratulations to Sam Jenkins, age 13, an eighth grader at Fairgrounds Middle School, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2026 Football Player of the Year!

As the heart of PAL’s offensive line at center, Sam is the definition of a team-first athlete. Coach Ben Defosses describes him as “a player who leads by example, taking charge of the offensive line with confidence, determination, and a work ethic that inspires those around him.” Sam always wants to be on the field for his teammates – even when coaches remind him that sometimes resting and recovering can the best way to help his team. His toughness, selflessness, and willingness to put others first has made him a teammate his coaches and fellow players can count on.

For Sam, that commitment to his teammates is also what makes football special. “My favorite part of PAL is my teammates, win or lose we still have fun.” He credits PAL with teaching him the game and helping him become a better player, and says his coaches, parents, and teammates have always believed in him. That support has helped Sam develop the confidence to step up, lead, and keep going when things get difficult.

Sam’s advice to PAL’s younger athletes captures the resilience he brings to the field: “Don’t be scared to take a hit and if you fall – it doesn’t mean you have to stay there.” For Sam, “PAL means football and giving back,” and as he looks ahead, his goal is pretty powerful: “My goal for the future is to be successful in whatever I choose to do.”

When he’s not playing football, Sam enjoys being outside with his friends or playing 2K. Whether he’s anchoring the offensive line, supporting a teammate, or looking toward what comes next, Sam brings heart, determination, and a team-first attitude that make him a leader both on and off the field.

Congratulations, Sam, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2026 Football Player of the Year!