Former New Bern High School standout KJ Sampson returned to Craven County this summer for the second iteration of his football camp, offering local youth a chance to train under the guidance of a Boston College defensive lineman.
Camp Highlights Rivalry and Mentorship
The week‑long session combined college‑level drills — shuttle runs, cone work, tackling techniques, and footwork circuits — with a lively atmosphere that blended competition and camaraderie.
Current and former college athletes with ties to the area, including Georgia Tech’s Brayden Manley and ex‑Eagle RJ Lancaster, joined Sampson on the field, sharing insights and modeling the next generation of play.
Organizers emphasized the historic New Bern‑West Craven rivalry, noting that today’s campers will soon inherit those matchups, while signed footballs and a series of push‑up challenges added extra motivation.
Beyond the gridiron, Sampson described the event as a way to give back to the community that helped shape his own path, a sentiment echoed by participants and parents alike.
Looking ahead, Sampson is preparing for his freshman season with the Boston College Eagles, carrying the lessons from Craven County onto the national stage.