Stories We Tell

By: Van Horn

The path to college football for North Carolina A&T freshman Noah Okoye wasn’t always clear. Born in Annapolis, Maryland, and raised in Prince George’s County, Okoye didn’t grow up wearing a jersey or dreaming of the field. In fact, it wasn’t until high school that he first considered suiting up, and even then, it was “just for fun,” he says.

The decision to pursue football more seriously didn’t come from within. It was more of a deep encouragement that shaped Okoye’s journey with the sport. His uncle, former NFL player Christian Okoye, played a key role in introducing the game to his nephew. “My uncle really encouraged my dad to push me into football,” Noah Okoye said, explaining how family
conversations later turned a casual hobby into a potential future. With the uncle’s background in professional football, Christian Okoye quickly saw his nephew’s potential early on and recognized how the sport could help him grow, both on and off the field.

What began as a fun after-school activity quickly turned into something more serious. By the time he graduated, the now A&T player had not only developed a love for the game but had also earned first-team all-conference honors.

As he approached graduation, Okoye faced a difficult decision. Because of his impressive blocking accolades, multiple colleges expressed interest. Okoye considered schools like Morgan State, North Carolina Central, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Each school had
something to offer, but it wasn’t until A&T’s coach, Charles Bankins, extended an offer that Okoye couldn’t turn down.

“It felt like the right school,” Okoye said, describing the welcoming atmosphere and team camaraderie that made him feel at home with the Aggies.

Arriving at N.C. A&T, Okoye knew the transition would be challenging. Although he was no stranger to competition, the intensity and physicality of college football required a new level of commitment. “The biggest adjustment was adapting to playing against guys who are
stronger than me,” he said, recalling early practices where he was matched against veteran teammates. The higher level of competition in college football is something Okoye respects, and it has driven him to work harder every day. He’s prioritized getting stronger and faster, putting in extra hours at the gym, and studying plays meticulously.

Despite the victories and accolades, for Okoye, football is only part of the college experience. As dedicated as he is to the game, he’s equally focused on academics. Studying software engineering, Okoye’s interest in technology runs deep, and he dreams of a future that balances both his athletic and academic pursuits. “I’m constantly thinking about making life better for my future self,” he explained, emphasizing how education is his backup plan. For him, the structure and discipline he’s gaining as a football player also apply to his studies and broader life goals, keeping Okoye grounded as he navigates the demands of college life.

One of Okoye’s most significant personal goals is to grow as an individual and “become a better man,” he says. College has provided a platform not only for athletic and academic development but also for building strong friendships and learning valuable life lessons. Okoye values being a
supportive teammate and friend, knowing that the bonds he creates here will be as important as his achievements on the field. “I want to be remembered as a good friend and one of the best football players to come through A&T,” he said with pride and commitment to leaving a positive
impact on those around him.

Looking ahead, Okoye’s ambitions extend beyond the next few seasons with the Aggies. He envisions a career that could involve software engineering or possibly playing football professionally. Regardless of where his journey takes him, Okoye remains focused on setting a
foundation today that will benefit him long term. With each practice, game, and study session, he is laying the groundwork for a legacy defined by resilience, friendship, and dedication. Whether on the football field, in the classroom, or among friends, Noah Okoye is carving out a path that’s
both ambitious and purposeful, aiming to impact A&T football, his community, and beyond.