Leadership on and off the field
The University of South Florida Bulls football team has been through a lot in the past five years. They've had their ups and downs, but one thing has remained constant: the leadership of Brad Cecil. Brad is a 5-year veteran and starting center for the Bulls, and he sets the standard for his teammates with his unmatched enthusiasm and consistency. He is also heavily involved in charity work through his work with the Big Man Big Heart campaign. It's no surprise, then, that he has been nominated for the William V. Campbell Award. This prestigious award is given to the college football player who "best exemplifies the characteristics of William V. Campbell: integrity, excellence, collaboration and humility." Brad embodies all of these qualities, and more. Here's a closer look at why he deserves this prestigious honor.
On the Field
Brad Cecil is a 5-year veteran and starting center for the University of South Florida Bulls football team. He has been a key part of the offense over the past five years, anchoring the offensive line and providing leadership for his fellow teammates. Cecil has started 45 games in his career, and is on pace to tie USF's record for career starts. He was named a Team Captain prior to his junior season, and he has been a key leader for the team both on and off the field.
What makes consistency so important for a leader?
"Your most important abilities are your dependability and your accountability, whether it be on the field or off the field. You have to be consistent in your life in every aspect, when you are undisciplined in areas of your life, it can negatively impact other areas. How you do anything is how you do everything"
What does it mean to you to be a semi-finalist for the William V. Campbell Award?
"It is an extreme honor. To be viewed by my teammates, coaches, and peers, as not only an outstanding football player, but an outstanding citizen is an accomplishment in itself. I was always taught to leave a place better than I found it, and that is what I've tried to do with my time here in Tampa at USF. To be named a semi-finalist shows that my hard work does not go unnoticed, and that there is still much more to be done."
Off the Field
In addition to his leadership role on the football team, Brad Cecil is also heavily involved in charity work through his work with the Big Man Big Heart campaign. The mission of Big Man Big Heart is to "provide financial support and awareness for people in need through the use of athlete's name, image, and likeness". Cecil has helped raise thousands of dollars for the campaign which will be used for any expenses incurred through the hardships of people in the athlete's respective community. Cecil has also volunteered his time at local schools and hospitals, brightening the days of countless people who are facing difficult circumstances.
Tell us more about your initiative with Big Man Big Heart.
"I decided to join Big Man Big Heart to help others in the Tampa community. While I was scrolling through Twitter, I came across Bode Wyatt, a seven year old Bulls superfan, who was recently diagnosed with leukemia. I knew right then, that he is who I wanted to help with the platform that I have. From there, I reached out to Bode's dad, Rob, to setup a GoFundMe and begin building Bode and I's relationship. Since then, we have raised over four-thousand dollars to help with Bode's expenses"
What would you say to someone going through a challenging time right now?
"Adversity introduces a person to themselves. What you are going through right now will not last forever, and when you come out on the other side, you will realize that you are stronger and better equipped for life's future battles. Life doesn't get easier, you just learn to handle 'hard' better."
Next up for the Brad Cecil and the Bulls
As the Bulls enter into the final stretch of their season, Brad Cecil and the Bulls are looking to close out strong. Cecil will continue to be an integral part of the team as they fight it out in the remaining games of the season. Make sure to head out to a Bulls home game if you are able to - you don't want to miss it when the Bulls finally turn it around!
Donate to Brad's Initiative through the following link:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/bulls-helping-hulk-smash-leukemia