Sam Acho
Sam Acho has a love for people, especially the people of Africa, and he is using his unique platform with LHCM to demonstrate his love for Christ as he inspires others to give back to the world. Before making his mark as a rookie for the Cardinals in 2011, Sam had an outstanding career at the University of Texas as a starting defensive end for the Longhorns. While at the University of Texas, he earned a double bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing from the McCombs School of Business Honors program.

Every summer, Sam joins his parents and siblings LHCM’s medical missions to rural communities in Nigeria. Along with his family, Sam has spearheaded a campaign to raise money for the building of a much-needed hospital in Nigeria. As a former University of Texas academic All-American, Sam stresses the importance of reading and education as he visits schools signing autographs and speaking with kids.

Perhaps Sam’s parents had a special insight into the reverence and love their son would come to have for God when they gave him the Nigerian middle name Onyedikachi, which means “Who is like unto God?” After all, Sam has dedicated his life and career to being a disciple of Christ and it shows in his every move on and off the field.

Emmanuel Acho
For Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Emmanuel Acho, helping others is a belief that is hard wired into his DNA. “I try to abide by the philosophy and teaching that says, 'to whom much is given much is required.' God has blessed me with a lot and I am therefore required to bless others.” Beyond his contributions on the football field, Emmanuel is committed to affecting the lives of others off the field.

He was a standout at The University Texas, starting at linebacker for the Longhorns. He graduated with a degree in Sports management, a feat he achieved in three and a half years. He is currently working on a Masters Degree in Sports Psychology at the university in the offseason. Highlights of his career include being a finalist for the 2011 Lott IMPACT Trophy, Lowe's Senior Class Award and Wuerffel Trophy.

Since debuting in the NFL, Emmanuel has been involved in a host of charitable activities in each city where he has played. His primarily focus, however, is helping Living Hope Christian Ministries raise funds to build a permanent hospital in his parents' native Nigeria. “Helping out over there is important to me because I understand that I could just as easily have been on the other side of needing help.”

In his free time Emmanuel enjoys catching up with friends and playing the piano. The younger half of the “Brothers Acho” or the “dynamic duo” as they are often called, Emmanuel has a close relationship with his brother, Sam Acho, a defensive end for the Chicago Bears. Together, in the summer they host a “youth fundamentals” football clinic at their High School alma mater, St. Marks School in Dallas. The camp is designed to introduce children to football by teaching basic skills in a fun and energetic environment.

“My brother inspires and challenges me daily, not only to be a better athlete, but a better person as well." Emmanuel, whose Nigerian name Chinedum means "God guides me," says the name directs his moral compass. “The reality that I come to terms with daily is that my life is being driven by God.”