This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to serve as the first-ever summer intern for 2nd & 7 through the Ohio State Athletic Department’s Bucks Go Pro 2.0 internship program. Bucks Go Pro is designed to give student-athletes real-world experience to help prepare them for life after college athletics. It was 2nd & 7’s first year participating in the program, and I was honored to be asked by Co-Founder and longtime family friend Ryan Miller to help launch it as their inaugural intern.
I was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, and from day one, I’ve been completely immersed in Buckeye football. Both of my parents were student-athletes at Ohio State and raised me with the values of listening, respecting others, getting good grades and—of course—a strong hatred for that team up north. My dad played linebacker for the Buckeyes in the ’90s and was teammates with Ryan Miller, Luke Fickell, and Mike Vrabel—friendships that continue still to this day. Because of that connection, I was always around 2nd & 7—attending their camps and reading Hog Mollie books from a young age.
Growing up I played multiple sports at St. Andrew and Bishop Watterson, but football was always my passion. Earning an opportunity to play at The Ohio State University was a lifelong dream since I was younger and now, I’m entering my third year as a Defensive Back for the Buckeyes.
One question I’m often asked is, “What’s your favorite part of being on the team?” People assume it’s winning a national championship, running out in front of 100,000 fans, or all the gear that we get. But for me, it’s none of that…. The best part of being a Buckeye is the platform we’re given to pay it forward, which is exactly what 2nd & 7 was founded on. For over 25 years, 2nd & 7 has given student-athletes the chance to be role models and inspire the youth who look up to us. I remember what it felt like to admire the players I watched on Saturdays. Now, through 2nd & 7 I can help be that person for kids across Columbus and beyond.
Although I’ve been around 2nd & 7 my whole life, this summer gave me a much deeper understanding of the foundation’s mission and impact. I’ve participated in their Role Model Reading Program—visiting classrooms across Columbus to read with kids, talk about their dreams, and answer their questions. I returned to the same summer camp I attended as a child, this time as a coach, teaching both football and the life lessons that come with it. But my involvement didn’t stop there. I also had the chance to support the launch of their newest initiative, the Columbus Book Bank where we have given out over 100,000 books just this year to the community. Over the summer, I played a key role in planning and organizing fundraisers, and I had the opportunity to network with numerous Central Ohio businesses that sponsor 2nd & 7. “These experiences not only supported the foundation’s mission, but also gave me valuable insight into the business world.
2nd & 7 was founded over 25 years ago by three former Buckeye football players who simply wanted to give back by donating books to local classrooms and promoting literacy. What began as a small act of kindness has turned into a powerful mission—one that inspires young readers, supports academic success, and uses student-athletes as positive role models. This internship has truly been a full-circle experience for me and has been very cool continuing the legacy of three former buckeyes.
While this chapter may be coming to close, my connection with 2nd & 7 is just beginning. I’m excited to continue paying it forward for many years.