By ISU Sports Information

NORMAL – Illinois State junior offensive lineman Kyle Avaloy was recognized for his work on the field and in the community by the Allstate Insurance Company and the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), as he was named a nominee for the 2015 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, the most esteemed off-the-field honor in college football.

For 24 years, the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team has recognized college football players from across the country who exemplify a superior commitment to community service and volunteerism. Since its inception in 1992, the award highlights the “good” taking place off the football field.

The select group of student-athletes nominated for this award by their respective colleges and universities are able to balance academics and athletics while remaining committed to helping others and bettering their communities.  In order to meet the criteria set forth by Allstate and the AFCA, each player must be actively involved with a charitable organization or service group while maintaining a strong academic standing.

Avaloy started all 15 games at left guard for the Redbirds in 2014 and was a key member of the offensive line unit that led the way for Marshaun Coprich, who led the FCS and the MVFC in rushing yards (2,274) and rushing touchdowns (27).  The Lombard, Illinois, native also aided Coprich in rushing for over 100 yards in 14 out of 15 games, setting a school and league mark for consecutive 100-plus yard games to start a season.

In his limited free time away from the field and the class room, Avaloy volunteered his time with several organizations in the Bloomington-Normal Community.  He worked at the Evergreen Retirement Community, volunteering as part of academic major, and he worked several Special Olympics of Illinois events, including the Spring Games, Summer Games and Polar Plunge.  He also assisted as a summer counselor at Camp Limberlost and worked with City of Refuge Ministries.

In order to meet the criteria set forth by Allstate and the AFCA, each player must be actively involved with a charitable organization or service group while maintaining a strong academic standing.