2017 SEASON:
MAC All-Academic Team… Played in all 19 games, making six starts… Assisted on both NIU goals against Northern Iowa on Sept. 15… Also had an assist in the 2-1 overtime win over Miami on Oct. 5… Scored a goal in NIU’s 3-2 overtime win at Ball State on Oct. 8.
2016 SEASON:
Played in all 21 games this season with 19 starts at the forward position…her two assists this season came in NIU wins as she assisted on the only goal in the Huskies’ 1-0 win over Western Illinois (Aug. 28) and added her second assist in the 4-0 win over Central Michigan (Sept. 23)… named to the Academic All-MAC Team.
2015 SEASON:
Appeared in 14 games, starting the first two matches of the season as a versatile attacking player...attempted six shots with two on goal...scored her first goal of the season in a 2-0 victory against Bowling Green (Oct. 23).
2014 SEASON:
Played in 13 games this season, starting four...recorded her first collegiate goal and assist in a 5-0 win against Chicago State (Sept. 12)...capable of a flip-throw that served as a set piece for the NIU offense...attempted numerous flip-throws in the MAC Quarterfinals at Miami (Nov. 2), pinning the RedHawks back and helping the Huskies control the pace of the game.
WEST AURORA HIGH SCHOOL:
Four-time letter winner and two-time captain ... All-Sectional player in 2013 ... Also member of gymnastics, golf, track, volleyball, and cross country teams throughout middle and high school ... Three-time golf letter winner.
PERSONAL/MISCELLANEOUS:
Daughter of Rose and Michael ... Intends to major in Kinesiology ... Member of school band for six years ... Daycare volunteer ... Actively cleans up litter in local park ... Enjoys watching movies, singing in the car, and hanging out with friends ... Most admires AlexMorgan because "she is the type of player I strive to be."
COACH ROSS ON O'BRIEN:
"She is a very aggressive forward who can create opportunities for herself and others. Sammy has good speed and a very long throw which we will take advantage of in the attacking third. She is a true competitor who will fit in well with our team."
CAREER HIGHS:
Goals: 1 (twice, last 10/23/15)
Asissts: 1 (vs. CSU 9/12/14)
Shots: 2 (twice, last 10/23/15)
