Football | 9/14/2026 12:05:00 PM

Oberlin, Ohio – Oberlin College Head Football Coach John Pont has announced the hiring of Sam Harkness as an Assistant Football Coach, who will be working with the defensive line. 

"We're excited to welcome Sam to Oberlin Football. He brings a unique background, a tremendous passion for teaching, and a real commitment to developing scholar-athletes. Throughout his career, Sam has taken on a wide range of responsibilities and has consistently demonstrated the ability to teach the game, build relationships, and help players improve," Pont adds. "His experience as a head coach, coordinator, position coach, and recruiter gives him a valuable perspective that will make our defensive staff and our entire program better. Sam understands the importance of meeting players where they are, demanding growth, and building confidence through preparation, and we believe he will be a great fit for what we are building at Oberlin."

Harkness joins Oberlin after coaching on staff at Bowdoin for three years, working with the running backs and tight ends for two years and as the wide receivers coach during the 2025 season. With the Bears, he managed recruiting in nine U.S. states as well as all international recruits, led position meetings, and served as the social media and film coordinator. Before his time in Maine, Harkness worked at Mayville State for a year, working with the tight ends and running backs and coaching a tight end to an All-Conference First-Team selection. 

An Australian native, Harkness was the Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator of the Brisbane Rhinos from 2016 to 2021, leading the team to five state championship games, three coach of the year nominations, and leading the league in offensive yards for three seasons. Harkness has also worked with the Queensland Sun Devils U19 All-Star Team as well as the University of Hawaii. 

Harkness graduated with his Bachelor's in Business Sport Management from Griffith University in Gold Coast, Australia.  

"I'm honored to join the Oberlin football program, and I am incredibly grateful to Coach Pont and Coach Hammer for the opportunity. I'm excited to help our scholar-athletes grow, compete, and succeed both on and off the field. Go Yeo!"

Harkness and the Yeomen return to the field on Saturday, September 19, when they host Wabash for their One Love and Morgan's Message Game. Kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m.

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