In football, he was named a Little All-American and in three seasons led the Hawks to a record of 28–1–1 and two Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) championships.

In three years as a halfback and kicker, he totaled 2,381 rushing yards, 37 touchdowns, 42 conversions, and four field goals.

[3] Sample in 1958 was said to be the first player from a historically black university to participate in the College All-Star Game, an annual exhibition held between professional rookies and the reigning NFL champion.

[5] After his playing career ended, in 1970 Sample released a very outspoken autobiography, Confessions of a Dirty Ballplayer.

1-ranked men's player by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) in the age 45 and over category for several years.