Odeluga, Bielema Nominated for Allstate AFCA Good Works Team

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – University of Illinois junior linebacker Kenenna Odeluga and Fighting Illini football head coach Bret Bielema are among the nominees announced by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) for recognition on the 2024 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. Nominees are determined based on their exemplary record of community service and impact on and off the field. Student-athletes must also show a strong academic dedication.  

THE ALLSTATE AFCA GOOD WORKS TEAM

Established in 1992, the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, now in its 33rd year, recognizes college football athletes for their unwavering commitment to community service and their “good works” off the field. This year’s 178 nominees champion causes including mental health awareness, youth mentorship, hunger relief, domestic abuse prevention, and many more. In addition to being actively involved with a charitable organization or service group, each player must also maintain strong academic standing to be considered for a spot on the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team.

The final roster of 23 award recipients announced later in September will bring together 11 players from the NCAA FBS, 11 players from the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), Divisions II, III and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), and one honorary head coach.

All members are selected by a voting panel of former Allstate AFCA Good Works Team members, current and former head coaches, and journalists who look for exceptional leadership on and off the football field.

Fans can join the conversation on social media with #GoodWorksTeam throughout the season.

KENENNA ODELUGA, JUNIOR LINEBACKER

• Two-time Academic All-Big Ten selection (2022 and 2023)
• Served a mission trip to Africa in the summer of 2023
• Visited the Carle Foundation Hospital to meet babies and children of all ages that were dealing with various sicknesses or diseases
• Volunteered to help build a garden at the Salvation Army
• Worked with DREAAM for the organization’s community service event, playing with the kids and helping with other parts of the event
• Attended the Black Student Athlete Summit 2024 in Los Angeles, connecting with numerous professionals and athletic faculty members from all around the nation, while cultivating fellowship and lasting relationships with a many…