Allstate and the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics announced on May 5 the members of the 2025-26 Allstate NACDA Good Works Team (Spring), highlighting student-athletes recognized for their leadership in sports, academics, and community service. Shelby Bavin, a coxswain on the University of Virginia women’s rowing team and a volunteer firefighter and EMT, was named team captain.
The recognition aims to spotlight student-athletes who make significant contributions beyond athletics by serving their communities. The initiative selects honorees from NCAA Divisions I, II, III, NAIA, and junior or community colleges each season across various sports.
This year’s spring team includes 20 student-athletes chosen from 137 nominees submitted by their schools. Each honoree receives a monetary contribution from Allstate to support their community service efforts. The team captain is awarded an additional contribution and will be recognized in person by ESPN sports commentator Holly Rowe.
Chris DeBiase, executive vice president at Allstate and collegiate sports ambassador said: “Allstate has long believed in the power of college athletics to shape leaders. We are proud to recognize these spring honorees who are demonstrating exceptional leadership and impact through community service, and to help fuel the causes they care about. Service is leadership and we want to reward and empower the young people who prove it every day.”
Bavin has contributed over 2,000 hours as a volunteer firefighter and EMT with Seminole Trail Volunteer Fire Department in Charlottesville. She also participates in other initiatives such as Athletes in Action’s servant leadership team, UVA’s Operation Christmas Child fundraising efforts that provided nearly 800 gift boxes globally, and Run Charlottesville where she mentors children.
Bavin said: “Competing for the University of Virginia is a privilege, but the greatest blessing has been being part of a team that supports each other far beyond the water. Service is at the heart of Virginia Rowing, and I truly strive to carry that into every aspect of my life. Through my work with the Seminole Trail Fire Department and Athletes in Action (FCA), I’ve pursued a deeper calling to serve others and love my neighbor. I’m grateful to Allstate and NACDA for recognizing the service that means so much to me. It is an honor to be named captain and stand alongside teammates who use their platforms to make a difference. I hope our stories inspire others to step into their communities to serve.”
Holly Rowe said: “Programs like the Allstate NACDA Good Works Team make sure service and leadership are recognized alongside athletic excellence. Allstate and NACDA’s commitment to celebrating student-athletes across every sport and division helps elevate stories that deserve a national spotlight, and I’m proud to help highlight student-athletes who rise to meet the needs of their communities.”
Pat Manak, chief executive officer at NACDA said: “The Allstate NACDA Good Works Team initiative continues to bring out the best in college athletics, highlighting student-athletes who are setting incredible examples as leaders and role models. To witness the impact that these young people have in communities and on campuses of all sizes across the country is special, and it is a privilege to tell their stories.”
The full roster for this year’s spring team features athletes representing multiple collegiate sports including rowing, beach volleyball, outdoor track & field, softball, lacrosse,and tennis—each supporting diverse causes through volunteering or organizing local projects.
