How Big Sam Led SAAT ’26 to Historic FUTA World Cup Victory

In an exclusive interview with Sportxvibe.com.ng, Oyebamiji Samuel, popularly known as Big Sam, the 400-level student of the Department of Forestry and Wood Technology (FWT) who guided the School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology (SAAT) ’26 to win the first FUTA World Cup, shares his team’s challenging journey to victory.

Sportxvibe.com.ng: Congratulations Coach Big Sam for leading SAAT ’26 to victory in the first FUTA World Cup! How would you describe the tournament in general?
Big Sam: Thank you! It was an incredibly exciting tournament from start to finish. Each game was competitive and engaging, and really set a high bar for future editions. I’m already looking forward to the next one.

Sportxvibe.com.ng: SAAT ’26 has faced early exits in past competitions. What was the motivation that drove the team this time, especially given that history?
Big Sam: Honestly, our initial goal as SAAT ’26 was simply to advance further than ever, given our history of being eliminated in the group stage in previous competitions. However, from the beginning I recognized the immense quality of our staff. My job then was to instill that faith in the guys, to convince them that we were not just participating, but that we could actually win this, by focusing on each game as it came.

Sportxvibe.com.ng: Which opponent turned out to be the toughest challenge for SAAT ’26 during your winning streak?
Big Sam: SPS ’25 definitely gave us the hardest time. Their forwards were incredibly fast and we had a hard time containing them throughout the game.

Sportxvibe.com.ng: This is the first SAAT ’26 title. What are the plans to maintain this winning momentum and build on this historic achievement?
Big Sam: As you pointed out, this is our first major title as SAAT ’26 and we are absolutely committed to building on this success. The quality within this team is undeniable and very evident. We have our sights set on all the trophies that exist; let’s go for all of them.

Sportxvibe.com.ng: Looking ahead to the next edition of the FUTA World Cup, what are your aspirations and plans for SAAT ’26?
Big Sam: Our plan for the next edition is simple: more intensity, more determination and an even stronger will to win. Our goal is to defend our title and continue our legacy.

Sportxvibe.com.ng: As a student-athlete, what types of support systems do you think are crucial for student-athletes to thrive academically and athletically?
Big Sam: Student-athletes desperately need better structural support. This includes appropriate programming that takes into account both academic commitments and training, improved access to quality training facilities, and constant encouragement from the institution. When these elements are in place, your performance, both on and off the field, naturally improves. I want to place special emphasis on proper programming; Balancing academics and intense training can be incredibly difficult without it.

Sportxvibe.com.ng: Finally, as someone who has just experienced the first FUTA World Cup first-hand, what advice would you give to the organizers for future editions?
Big Sam: The organizers did a commendable job with this inaugural edition; It was a fantastic start. Looking ahead, the key is to build on this solid foundation. My advice would be to focus on perfecting the organization, significantly increasing visibility and making the tournament even more competitive. With enough visibility and proper planning, this competition has the potential to rival, or even surpass, events such as the VC Cup and the FUTASU FA Cup. Meticulous and continuous planning will be essential for your growth.