04/30/2026
National Christian School Athletic Association
SERVANT-LEADERSHIP AWARD
Samuel Chukwu - Central Christian Academy (Southington, CT)
"Sam and his family came to know Christ through our church's bus ministry after moving to the United States from Nigeria. Since that time, Sam has become one of the most faithful and selfless servants in our ministry. He has invested countless hours of his free time into the lives of young people in our community, demonstrating a genuine love for others rooted in gratitude for what God has done in his own life. Sam is especially well loved by the elementary students at our Christian school. He knows many of them personally through years of involvement in youth sports, Sunday School classes, bus ministry, and extracurricular activities. His consistency, kindness, and approachability have made him a trusted role model to younger students. As Sam prepares for college, he is earnestly seeking God's direction for his future career. During our counseling conversation, he shared a strong desire to pursue a path that allows him to show others the same love, care, and encouragement that were extended to him through the church and its ministries. This desire clearly reflects his spiritual maturity and servant's heart. Sam is also a leader among his peers. He served as the captain of our basketball team this year, not only for his athletic ability, but for his shining example on and off the court. He leads by example, treats others with respect, and consistently displays integrity, humility, and compassion. Sam is a tremendous influence on our younger players and a young man of exemplary character."
The NCSAA Servant-Leadership Award is presented to senior athletes from our member schools who exemplified leadership by serving their teammates and opponents, displaying Christlike character in their competition, and interacting with others with a deep commitment to building them up. Thank you for leading and serving, Samuel, and for being dedicated to demonstrating Christ's sacrificial love.