Each week our Spotlight Series will focus on a coach or staff member to showcase the incredible talent we have at Ursinus. This week's subject is softball coach Sam Campo, who is in her ninth season with the program and led the Bears to the Centennial Conference playoffs a year ago.
What drew you to Ursinus, and what makes Ursinus unique?
Ursinus is a softball dream school. The pitching history of Ursinus is the best in the Centennial.
What's the best piece of advice, coaching or otherwise, you've ever received?
Oh gosh, I have received a ton of advice from some great people along the way: 1. There isn't a job on the diamond that is beneath the head coach (take care of your people and they will take care of you); 2. Never sell your soul for the W; 3. Sometimes the Bear gets you, sometimes you get the Bear; 4. Fight for what you want and earn every inch.
What is the best part about coaching at Ursinus?
I love seeing how successful the students are once they graduate. An Ursinus student-athlete always gets better as they grow!
What's the most difficult thing about coaching?
Telling a player who works really hard, does everything the right way, does everything you ask and then some but at the end of the day their role isn't what I know that they want it to be. Even though it is a tough conversation to have, I believe it is important to be up front and honest. It will be what is best for the player and the best for the team.
What's your most memorable coaching moment at Ursinus?
When the team beat McDaniel to get into the 2019 Centennial playoffs. You could see it on the team's faces - the sacrifice, the belief in the team culture that could be, really paid off.
What do you look for in a recruit?
1. Competitiveness 2. How they carry themselves 3. How they treat their teammates, coaches, and parents.
What's the one thing you would tell a recruit considering Ursinus?
All parts must work - academics, softball, etc - for you to have the experience that you are looking for. This process is about you and what you want out of your college experience.
How has the pandemic changed your outlook on life and coaching?
It has helped me learn to manage my "coaches' guilt." Coaching can consume you at times. People do not realize you never stop being a coach. You are always on call. There is always something you can do. Coaches must wear many hats but at the end of the day you must make time for your family and yourself, and enjoy life and each moment.
What would you do if you weren't a coach?
Librarian (School Library Media Specialist) or I would move to Florida and try to work for Disney!
Do you have any coaching role models?
I think every coach I have had has impacted me positively in someone way, but I would say my parents coaching me throughout softball and life. My dad would always remind me to be honest, work hard and have fun - that's what's most important. My mom had a slightly more aggressive approach. She would remind me that dad is absolutely right, however, don't forget it is more fun when you win. So from early on it was about finding that balance. Life and coaching is all about balance!
Do you have any hidden gifts or talents?
I think I have a green thumb. I love gardening and planting flowers.
What is something most people don't know about you, or would be surprised to learn about you?
I am a big Disney Fan, I love all Disney movies. My all-time favorite characters are Snow White (the first movie I saw in a theater), Maleficent, and the 3 good fairies!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love reading bedtime stories to my children. I also like to go to the beach in the summer and rotate with the sun!
What's one of your guilty pleasures?
A good piece of cake with buttercream icing. And fried Oreos.
Previous Spotlights
Janelle Benner, Field Hockey Head Coach
Aileen Ascolese, Women's Soccer Head Coach
Joe Jamison, Wrestling Head Coach
Carl Blickle, Track & Field/Cross Country Head Coach