Sam enters his first year on the OU coaching staff having graduated from Oglethorpe in 2011, earning First-Team All-SCAC, SCAC pitcher of the week, and team captain honors. Upon graduating OU, Briend continued his playing career professionally for the New York Federals in the Can-Am independent league.
After his playing career, Briend was the head coach of the Bulls in the Southern Prospect High School League. The Bulls finished with the best record in the league and as runners-up in the playoffs. Briend has worked several high school clinics and showcases, as well.
In the 2012-13 campaign, Briend will primarily be working with the OU pitching staff.