On Tuesday, Sept. 12, it was announced by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) that Eagle quarterback Trent Maddox was named to the Good Works Team.
This honor, which was previously given to former Eagle quarterback Austin Brenner and tight end Austin Phillips, marks the third straight year in which the Eagles’ program had athletes recognized for their contributions off the field.
“To follow in the footsteps of guys like Austin Phillips and Austin Brenner is a blessing in itself. I have learned so much from both of them,” said Maddox. “They are two of the most selfless people I have ever met, as a young guy on the team I always looked up to them as leaders and in the ways they represented the team. They have been such great friends to me and I am super thankful that the Lord has placed them in my life.”
Since becoming an Eagle in the 2020-21 Academic Year, he has made his presence known across campus in a variety of avenues. He currently holds the title of Great Midwest Athletic Conference (GMAC) Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Chair and the AU SAAC President. Before being named as the GMAC SAAC Chair, he served as the Vice Chair for two years.
“I think it all comes back to service. I have so much fun in serving my fellow student-athletes. It’s a side to college athletics that not everyone gets to see, it’s awesome to be behind the scenes in voting, legislation and other aspects of college athletics that not everyone sees,” he said. “This role has given me leadership opportunities that I have learned from and grown a ton in and for that I am so thankful.”
Both roles pose leadership responsibilities for Maddox, while he also balances being a student-athlete.
Alongside serving others and being involved in leadership roles, he also provides a strong character in the classroom. In the 2021-22 and 2022-23 Academic Years, he was named a Great Midwest All-Conference Academic selection for high grade-point averages.
By being selected to the Good Works Team, he will have the opportunity to be alongside 21 other athletes and one coach, all of whom have represented their communities in service and “good works”.
“The Lord has given me a ton of joy in service through the power of the Holy Spirit. When I think about what the Lord has done in my life I think about Galatians 2:20 that says ‘I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.’ Jesus Christ has changed my life and with that comes desires to serve,” he said. “I am so thankful for the ways the Lord has given me joy in service.”
His bio, found on the AFCA voting poll, showcases some of the projects and services he has done throughout his time at AU.
“He’s planned and participated in a beautification project for a local church and read books to students at Regan Elementary School and even helped the children draw pictures for first responders,” read his bio. “Trent also partnered with Olentangy High School to create a football camp for K-12 students with physical, intellectual and development disabilities around Columbus, Ohio.”
Throughout history, the Eagles’ program has seen six student-athletes nominated for the honor, with four being named to the team. Those include Austin Brenner in 2022, Austin Philips in 2021, Zach Bernhard in 2016 and Maddox as the most recent selection.
Former Eagles Clay Shreve in 2019 and Travis Downing in 2018 were nominated, but not selected.
Maddox now has the ability to serve as the team captain if he wins the fan voting. Those interested can go to ESPN.com/Allstate and vote once a day from today’s date until Nov. 22.
