Rugby sensation Sam Golla is not just winging it on the field for the Dallas Jackals – he's marking his territory as a standout newcomer in Major League Rugby. Born in Arlington and raised in Denver, Golla has been recognized for his steep ascent in the sport, culminating in the prestigious title of 2023 Sportsbreaks.com Rookie of the Year. After being drafted No. 1 overall in 2022, his stats speak for themselves. Golla led all rookies across various stats which includes minutes played and ball carries, according to the City of Arlington, Texas.
It was a record-breaking rookie season for Golla, who not only played 1,234 minutes but also notched 98 carries. His defensive prowess is evident; he stands fifth among all players with 213 tackles. Not to mention, Golla's presence on the field was unwavering – he showed up for every match and racked up 17 points on three tries. His October performance was particularly key, delivering a "critical try" in the franchise's inaugural victory and reinforcing his status as a leader even from the locker room. Reflecting on his contributions, Mayor Jim R. Ross of Arlington designated Oct. 24, 2023, as “Sam Golla Day”, tipping the hat to Golla's impact both on the pitch and in the community.
Before Golla became a professional force with the Jackals, he cut his rugby teeth at Denver East High School. Under his captaincy, the team clinched a state championship in 2017. Moving on to the collegiate level, Golla continued to loom large in the sport during his tenure at the University of California, Berkeley. Not only did he lead the Golden Bears, but he also accumulated an impressive 27-1 record in his senior year and was shortlisted for the Rudy Scholz Award, given to the nation's top college player.
Those who have tracked Golla's career aren't surprised by his success. His formative years hinted at a player primed for excellence, a prophecy fulfilled on the fields of Choctaw Stadium which the Jackals call home. The team, part of Major League Rugby, finds in Golla a beacon of dedication and skill that harkens back to his roots in Arlington – origins that now see their reflection in a local hero's rise.
