In Scotia, New York, the Perkins family is finding solace and strength on the football field at Scotia-Glenville High School after enduring a heartbreaking loss. This summer, James Perkins and his four sons spent countless hours practicing together, reinforcing their bond through conditioning and skills drills. The family, which has a deep-rooted connection to the sport, cherished these moments of camaraderie and fun.
However, the past year has been profoundly challenging for the Perkins family. Sam Perkins, the second-oldest son, faced a relentless battle against leukemia, a condition he was first diagnosed with in 2023. Despite showing incredible resilience and determination, Sam's health deteriorated, ultimately leading to his passing on July 27 at the age of 19. His dream was to compete in his senior season of high school football as a wide receiver for the Scotia-Glenville Tartans, but his illness prevented him from achieving that goal.
As the new football season kicks off, Nicholas Perkins, now a senior, is set to take the field once again, honoring his late brother by wearing the same No. 17 jersey that Sam wore. "Losing him has been sad," Nicholas reflected, acknowledging the emotional weight of his brother's absence. He added, "Life keeps moving, and you have to keep moving forward. He wouldn’t want me to stop living my life." Nicholas will play as a tight end and linebacker for the Tartans, while his younger brother, Thomas Perkins, a sophomore, will take on the role of starting quarterback for the junior varsity team.
The Perkins family's connection to football runs deep. James Perkins played at Columbia High School and later at Hudson Valley Community College and Stony Brook. He emphasized the importance of physical fitness to his sons, encouraging them to engage in sports or physical activities without imposing any specific athletic direction. Each of the brothers eventually gravitated toward football, a sport that became a significant part of their lives.
Sam's journey through illness was marked by both struggle and determination. He missed nearly his entire junior year due to treatment but managed to keep up with his studies, demonstrating remarkable discipline and dedication. His positive attitude inspired those around him, as he remained focused on his future, discussing college scholarships even shortly before his passing. His mother, Sara Perkins, described him as a warrior with a heart of gold, emphasizing his infectious smile and laughter.
As the football season approaches, the Perkins family has found renewed purpose in the sport. Nicholas and Thomas Perkins decided to return to the field partly due to Sam's encouragement and the hiring of Jason Coons as the new head coach of the Tartans. Coons, who previously served as a varsity assistant, welcomed the brothers to summer workouts, where they rediscovered their love for the game. "Football is a good outlet for them right now," Coons noted, highlighting the importance of the sport in their healing process.
During a recent scrimmage against Johnstown, the brothers showcased their skills, with Nicholas proudly wearing No. 17. The emotional weight of the moment was palpable, as Sara Perkins expressed her pride in seeing her sons play together again. "It is very emotional. It makes me proud as a mom that he is wearing 17. I think Sam would be very happy to see that," she said.
As the Tartans prepare for their Section 2 season opener against Watervliet/Heatly, the Perkins family remains hopeful. Nicholas Perkins aims for the team to be competitive, focusing on enjoying the game rather than fixating on wins and losses. "I just want to be in the game," he stated, embodying the spirit of resilience and determination that has defined the Perkins family during this challenging time.
Leave a Comment