Meet Sam Peters
By Service Break | July 2025
Standing at 206 cm (that’s just short of 6 ft 8 for all the imperial readers), Sam Peters is hard to miss on a volleyball court but his impact goes far beyond height. From a standout NCAA career to leading roles at the University of Nottingham and the England national team, Sam has quietly become one of the UK’s most promising volleyball figures. We caught up with him to hear about his journey, leadership, challenges, and what lies ahead.
Sam’s path to volleyball began unexpectedly. Growing up in South East London before moving to Chicago at age four, he was a dedicated soccer player. “I played soccer at a really high level growing up and genuinely thought that’s what I’d do in college,” he recalls. Yet it was his height that eventually drew him to volleyball.
I started playing volleyball because I was tall. Simple as that.”
This switch highlights how sometimes a single factor can pivot an athlete’s entire career, opening doors to new opportunities and passions.
He went on to play NCAA Division 1 volleyball at George Mason University for four years. Reflecting on that intense chapter, Sam shares, “Being pushed every day by some of the best guys in the country, learning to lead, and travelling across the U.S. for matches it was intense but amazing.” The experience not only sharpened his technical skills but taught him the discipline and resilience necessary to compete at a high level. It was here that Sam grew into a leader, captaining his team and embracing the responsibility that came with it.
After college, Sam returned to the UK, joining the University of Nottingham’s volleyball program. “Notts has one of the best volleyball communities in the country,” he says. Playing alongside friends like Griffin Walters (another NCAA alum) and competing regularly against England teammates strengthened his national ties. “Being in the same leagues as my England teammates, seeing them more often outside of training it’s helped strengthen that connection massively.” His move underscores how choosing the right environment can help athletes both develop their game and build essential relationships.
On the court, Sam’s role is clear and focused. “We don’t pass. We don’t usually serve first. But we absolutely have to block and attack with precision every single time,” he explains. As a middle blocker, his presence at the net is vital. Beyond physical skills, leadership remains key. Sam draws inspiration from the players who came before him and aims to set the same example.
“I have had a number of influential teammates that I view as positive role models, guys that I looked up to for how they held themselves on and off the court. I try to be a role model myself now, someone that younger players can look to and learn from in the same way.”
This year, Sam also embraced the challenge of beach volleyball at BUCS. “That was my first proper go at beach, and honestly, it was tough. As a middle, a lot of my indoor skills didn’t carry over. The first few trainings were rough.” Despite the steep learning curve, he and his partner Szymon Dar pushed through to the final, facing strong opponents who ultimately edged them out. Still, the experience gave him a new appreciation for the sport’s different demands. “I really do enjoy playing on the sand and the new challenges that it presents.”
Balancing academics and elite sport is no small feat. Sam shares candidly about the pressures student-athletes face. “There are a number of expectations placed on you maintaining a social life, achieving high marks in the classroom, having proper nutrition, performing well on the court and in the weight room, maintaining relationships with friends and family at home and at uni and more.” His advice to fellow athletes? “Build strong friendships with your teammates in off-court settings and also find creative outlets that are completely separate from your sport.” For Sam, music offers a much-needed mental reset and a way to disconnect from the intensity of volleyball.
Looking ahead, Sam is stepping into professional volleyball in Europe, though he’s keeping his new club under wraps for now.
“Champions League volleyball is the long-term goal. I want to keep pushing myself and also help England find success on the international stage.”
Beyond his playing career, coaching also appeals to him. He’s already gained experience working with younger players at summer camps, including at the University of Nebraska. But for now, his focus remains firmly on competing at the highest level.
Sam Peters exemplifies what it means to be a modern athlete: talented, driven, adaptable, and thoughtful. Whether dominating at the net or supporting teammates off the court, his quiet leadership and passion are paving the way for a bright future one match at a time.
