Still Hungry: Saalem Frink’s Rise from Underdog to D1 Prospect

In December 2024, the Monsignor Bonner and Archbishop Prendergast football team made history by winning the school’s first ever state championship. The moment was electric. But for standout running back Saalem Frink, the clock on that celebration expired one week later.

“I told myself to enjoy it for a week,” Frink says. “Then it was back to work. I’m grinding like we didn’t win anything.”

That’s the kind of mentality that’s starting to catch attention well beyond the Philadelphia Catholic League. After a junior season that put him on the radar, Frink’s recruiting has started to gain real momentum. He holds offers from Georgetown University, Stonehill College, and most recently Norfolk State University, where he earned a scholarship on the spot by NFL legend Mike Vick after performing at their prospect camp.

“Just being out there in front of someone like Mike Vick, competing and doing what I love — that felt incredible,” he says. “It’s a blessing to see the hard work start to pay off.”

But that moment didn’t come overnight. Frink credits his growth not only to his on-field grind but to his unwavering faith. “These offers taught me patience,” he explains. “They taught me to pray to Allah and keep stacking good days, even when nobody’s watching. Every time a coach sees my potential, I see it as Allah answering that prayer.”

Even with recruiting attention heating up, Saalem remains locked in. “I just return to the drawing board,” he says. “I’m hungrier now. I train like there’s no tomorrow. I was taught there’s always room to grow — always.”

When it comes to evaluating schools, Frink is methodical. He doesn’t just look at a program’s record or facilities. He studies the coaching staff, watches the film of other players they’ve recruited, and observes their style and mentality. “I want to be part of a team where the players lead and push each other,” he explains. “I want dogs in the weight room, guys who take the game serious and push their teammates every rep. That’s where you really find out what kind of program it is.”

But football isn’t the only factor in his college decision. Saalem is just as focused on life beyond the game. “I know one day I’ll have to hang the cleats up. You can’t live off football forever,” he says. “I want to be in an environment that helps me grow as a man — somewhere with energy that matches mine. Outgoing. Fun. Focused. Dream chasers.”

Right now, one program stands out above the rest: Norfolk State University. “They’ve shown the most belief in me so far,” he says.

Heading into his senior season, Saalem knows there’s a target on his back. But instead of leaning on last year’s success, he’s doubling down. “People might think we were lucky last year. That’s fine,” he says with a smile. “We love being the underdogs. We’re going to show everyone we’re for real.”

Frink runs in a touchdown in the District 12 championship game.

The offseason has been all about refining his game. From expanding his “tool bag” as a running back to making sure his conditioning is locked in for fourth-quarter dominance, Frink is working to become even more dangerous this fall.

“I want to win another state championship with my brothers,” he says. “Personally, I want to break the school record for most rushing yards in a season, make first-team All-State, and pick up a few more offers. But all in Allah’s timing.”

As for leadership, Saalem admits it’s still a work in progress. “It’s something I’m learning,” he says. “But I’m pushing my teammates every day. We hold each other accountable. We’re coming for everything.”

That hunger is personal. It's powered by his family, his coaches, and the belief that he belongs among the best. “I want to show college coaches what they missed out on,” he says. “Every time I touch the field, it’s about proving something.”

He’s also not shy about giving back to the next generation. When asked what advice he’d give to underclassmen chasing offers, his message is clear: stop chasing — start grinding.

“Forget about the recruiting stuff. Don’t stress about offers. Just work. Go the extra mile. Kill the guy in front of you every play. Be a dog. Do what your coaches say. Work when no one’s watching. That’s how you get noticed.”

And when it’s all said and done, what does Saalem Frink want to be known for?

“That I was the best back in Philly — and that I was a true team player.”

With the numbers, mentality, and discipline to back it up, that title may not be far off.