From TCS to the Naval Academy: Samuel Wood
Becomes School’s First D1 Cross Country Commit
By Samantha DePriest
Earlier this month senior Samuel Wood officially committed to run Division 1 Cross Country and Track at the United States Naval Academy. While TCS has celebrated many runners who have gone on to compete in Division II and III in college, Samuel is the first to commit to run Division I. To compete in Division I track or cross country, student athletes generally need elite high school performances, years of structured training, strong academics, and success in high level competitions. The recruiting process and personal discipline also play a major role in reaching that level.
At Samuel’s signing on March 5th, TCS Cross Country Coach and Bible Department Head, Mr. Ryan Tipton, opened the evening in prayer. Track and Field Coach and Assistant Principal, Mr. Roby Ross, shared remarks of praise and honor as well as Samuel’s father and honored veteran, Mr. Josh Wood, who himself is a second generation serviceman.
Mr. Wood shared, “Thank you to Trinity for setting this up, it is a proud moment not necessarily just for Samuel but to honor what a great God we serve. When you look at the shape of the world today and you look at the lives of our children, life is precious. And in a moment, you students are going to be in college and you look back and all those memories and moments along the way, if you don’t stop to appreciate what God is doing in your life, you’ll miss it. I am blessed to be as part of a school and a body of believers that puts such an emphasis on our children to teach them how Christ would. So from the Wood family to Trinity, thank you.”
Samuel spoke of his time at TCS with immense gratitude for his coaches and teammates giving all glory to God for the opportunity to compete at the next level. In closing, Jordan Bosworth from 1st Baptist Peachtree City led a beautiful prayer over Samuel.
To learn more about Samuel’s journey to the US Naval Academy, click the button below.
Mrs. Bonnie Wood, Samuel’s mom, shares, “We were blessed to have family, friends, and coaches come together to celebrate not just Samuel’s achievements, but his heart for God. Grateful for the prayers and support of so many godly people who’ve poured Truth into our son’s life. As Samuel prepares to serve our country, we know the Lord will guide him every step of the way.”
Samuel Wood pictured with his parents Josh and Bonnie Wood.
Samuel Wood speaking at his signing.
Josh Wood speaking at Samuel’s signing.
Coach Ryan Tipton speaking at Samuel’s signing.
TCS Cross Country Coach Ryan Tipton shared, “Sam Wood is one of the finest young men I have ever known. He understands the value of what it means to be a team in a sport where he very well could have made it about himself. His parents have pointed him faithfully to Christ over the years and he understands the gospel and is committed to being the believing believer and the repenting repenter that God is called him to be. Sam shines brightly not because he is successful. There are plenty of successful people in this world. Sam Wood shines brightly because in his success, he points to the one who made it all, sustained it all, and in the end gets glory for all.”
Coach Roby Ross speaking at Samuel’s signing.
TCS Track and Field Coach Roby Ross shared, “Having Samuel Wood commit to compete in Cross Country and Track and Field at the U.S. Naval Academy is such a special event on multiple levels. On the surface, it is a testimony of his hard work and a big landmark in the XC and Track program histories - having an athlete to compete on such an elite level. However; what makes it especially meaningful is that with this commitment comes Samuel's selfless commitment to serve our country - to work extremely hard in preparation to keep all of us safe - to stand willing to fight for our lives, liberty and freedom. I couldn't imagine a better ending to Samuel's magnificent running career here at TCS.”
Samuel Wood pictured with Coach Ryan Tipton (pictured left) and Coach Roby Ross (pictured right).
Jordan Bosworth from First Baptist of Peachtree City.
