From Cardiff Met to Carolina: The 19-year-old who has taken his goal-scoring exploits across the pond
Sam Snaith celebrates his goal. (Abigail Davies)
Former Welsh League striker Sam Snaith has taken to life across the pond like a duck to water since making the move to Coastal Carolina University.
The 19-year-old, who is a former Newport County trialist, made the move to CCU after being offered a scholarship last summer, and has not looked back since.
He had only just finished playing college football in the UK, and scored a hat-trick in his final game for Bridgend College as they beat Cardiff and Vale College to win the inter schools finals.
“I’ve loved the season so far,” said Snaith.
“The style of football is very different to back in Wales, however I feel as if i have adapted well.”
CCU compete in NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) Division One and Snaith has thrived under the pressure of collegiate sport.
He was rewarded for his fantastic debut season when he was announced as the Sun Belt Conference freshman of the year earlier this month.
“It was a great feeling to be given freshman of the year,” added Snaith.
“It’s always nice to get acknowledged for your hard work.”
Snaith’s award-winning performances have helped lead CCU to a Conference Championship title and the NCAA National Championship Tournament.
Having won their first round game against rivals North Carolina State, CCU are now just five wins away from winning a national title.
They face Southern Methodist University on Sunday afternoon in the second round of the tournament, and Snaith is excited by the challenge.
“I’m really looking forward to the SMU game, it’s down in Texas and we get to fly there which is always enjoyable,” said the former Llantwit Major man.
“I don’t know too much about their team, but I’m confident that we can come away with a result.”
Snaith will be hoping he can continue his good run of form and help lead CCU to its second piece of silverware this season and their first ever national title.
The youngster was keen to send his well wishes to former manager Christian Edwards, who he worked under during his time with Cymru Premier side Cardiff Metropolitan University.
The former Swansea City and Nottingham Forest defender was taken ill on Thursday after suffering a suspected heart attack at training.
“I would like to say get well soon to my old gaffer Christian Edwards, I wouldn’t be here today without his help.”
(Featured image: Abigail Davies)
