CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Illinois linebacker Kenenna Odeluga will host the second annual Afro-Tailgate during tomorrow before the Homecoming game against Central Michigan on Saturday at Memorial Stadium.

There will be food and music as part of a cultural experience so attendees can take part in a cultural experience and enjoy a college football game in a safe, welcoming setting.

Of the origin of the tailgate idea, Odeluga says, “When my dad and I first learned about the tailgate experience, we realized that many times, the tailgate experience is just as important as the game and the full experience of a whole football outing. After realizing that, we wanted to find a way to reach minorities. We wanted to find a way to reach people who have not been able to experience that for themselves or were not brought up in it. We also wanted to add a little bit of our own culture and flair to it, so that is how the Afro-Tailgate was born.”

Last year, Odeluga sponsored more than 60 tickets for on-campus RSO groups, people from his hometown, South Holland, Illinois, and members of his church. After the game, Odeluga joined the group for a post-tailgate experience.

“College football brings everyone together. Every race, gender, culture, ethnicity: Everyone comes to watch a football game, so the tailgate experience is that culmination.”

Odeluga recognizes the importance of using his platform as a college football student-athlete to give back and make an impact. Odeluga grew up surrounded by the values of selflessness and community service. He knew he wanted to continue implementing those values even after leaving home and starting college.

“Since coming to college, that has been something that I have been much more intentional about, and it’s something in which I do my best. If I am going to do it, I am going to do it well. It’s something I grew up learning about, grew up knowing, and am glad I am starting to fulfill in my own right now.”

Among the many selfless acts Odeluga has done in the community, includes visiting Carle Hospital to meet sick babies and children, helped build a garden at the Salvation Army, and worked with DREAAM by playing with the kids and helping with the event.

For his work in the community, Odeluga was named to the 2024 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy preseason watch list, an award that annually honors college football student-athletes who make an impact on the field, in the community, and in the classroom.

Odeluga invites individuals of all ages and backgrounds to join him and his family for this year’s Afro-Tailgate, which he hopes provides a welcoming space for those in the community who come from a similar background.