When the Bishop Kelley Comets take the field this season, it will be head coach J.J. Tappana’s 18th year at the helm of the ship. In that time, Kelley has seen many DI type players who go on to do great things. This season the Comets will feature several players who have that potential, including Sam Rhoades, a starting tight end and defensive end.

Rhoades grew up in the Catholic church and school so joining the Bishop Kelley football program was a natural step.

“I joined Bishop Kelley as a freshman. Football wasn’t my first sport. I didn’t start playing football until seventh grade. I was huge on soccer and basketball before I started playing,” said Rhoades.

Coach Tappana said Rhoades, “never leaves the field.” At 6-foot-4 and 240-pounds, Rhoades can play multiple positions from tight end to H-back and even spread out as a wide receiver thanks to his ability to run good routes and make tough receptions.

On the defensive side of the ball Rhoades is an important piece of the puzzle according to coach Tappana.

“He anchors the wide side of our defense from the defensive end spot.”

His play has caught the eye of recruiters around the country. Austin Peay, Missouri Southern, New Mexico State, Eastern Michigan, Army, and Air Force have all offered the senior to play at the next level.

But recruiting is not the focus for Rhoades coming into the season. With games circled on the schedule and workouts underway, Rhoades is focused on helping his team win football games.

“I’m excited to see how well this team will come together and win games. This team
has a bunch of leadership. Everyone wants to win and will push others to achieve that. Everyone holds each other accountable,” said Rhoades. “I’m most excited about playing Bishop McGuinness at home. I want this senior class to be remembered as the most positively impactful group. I want people to look up to us and for us to be role models for them both on and off the field.”

Rhoades said several of his teammates are players everyone should pay close attention to this season.

“Reid Jones, Stice Smith, Gabe Dougherty, Mason McFarlane, Gunnar Jackson, Carter Couch, and Kai Livesay are all guys to watch,” said Rhoades.

In the classroom, Rhoades carries a 4.2 GPA and his favorite subject in English. In college Rhoades said he would like to study business and possibly work in medical sales in the future.