CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Illinois football linebacker Kenenna Odeluga has been recognized for “outstanding athletic performance and community service efforts”.

Odeluga was named to the 2024 watch list for the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy by the Wuerffel Foundation and the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA). This recognition highlights Odeluga’s dedication to excellence in athletics, academics, and community service. The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy is one of the most esteemed awards in college football. Established in 2005, the award annually recognizes college football student-athletes who have made significant impacts not only on the field but also in their communities. The Wuerffel Trophy is named in honor of Danny Wuerffel, a former standout quarterback at the University of Florida and a Heisman Trophy winner known for his commitment to community service.

The trophy’s committee takes several factors into account when evaluating nominees, including community service work, academic achievements, and athletic performance. The voting committee consists of national media, retired head coaches, past recipients, and the Wuerffel Trophy Board of Directors.

Odeluga’s abilities have earned him a spot on the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team nominee list, showcasing his dedication to both football and his philanthropic efforts. Odeluga maintained high academic standards while excelling in football. He was a two-time academic All-Big-Ten Selection, in 2022 and 2023.

His community service list is extensive:

  • Mission Trip to Africa (Summer 2023): Odeluga took his passion for service overseas, participating in a mission trip to Africa where he provided aid and support.
  • Visits to Carle Foundation Hospital: Odeluga frequently visits the Carle Foundation Hospital to meet children and babies suffering from various illnesses.
  • Volunteering at the Salvation Army: Odeluga helped build a community garden at the Salvation Army.
  • DREAAM Community Service Event: His involvement with DREAAM for their community service event saw him interacting with kids and aiding in various capacities, further reflecting his commitment to giving back.
  • Attendance at the Black Student-Athlete Summit 2024: Odeluga represented the University of Illinois in Los Angeles and networked with professionals and student-athletes nationwide.

Odeluga’s contributions to his community, impressive academic record, and athletic abilities make him a role model for fellow student-athletes. Previous winners include Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia (2023), Dillan Gibbons, OL, Florida State (2022), and Isaiah Sanders, QB, Stanford (2021)