Day and McClain Honored with Allstate AFCA Good Works Nomination

Ryan Day’s Community Legacy

Ohio State’s head coach Ryan Day and his wife Nina have poured more than a million dollars into mental‑health research at their alma mater through the Nina and Ryan Day Resilience Fund. The donation supports studies that pinpoint risk factors for mental illness and promote resilience, a cause personally driven by Day after losing his father to suicide. In partnership with Nationwide Children’s Hospital, the couple also launched the Christina and Ryan Day Fund for Pediatric and Adolescent Mental Wellness. This initiative distributes free “Day Time Break” kits to classrooms, giving students tools to manage stress and improve overall wellbeing. The kits now reach every student in the 6,000‑member Manchester School District, the same schools Day and Nina attended as kids.

To amplify the message, former OSU players TreVeyon Henderson, Julian Sayin and Caleb Downs recorded videos encouraging youth to prioritize mental health alongside physical fitness. Day spent an hour addressing three local football teams after the event, speaking openly about mental illness and the importance of seeking help. His efforts extend beyond fundraising, as he regularly engages with schools and community groups to destigmatize mental‑health challenges.

Jaylen McClain’s Youth Programs

Junior defensive back Jaylen McClain founded the Everyday Legends Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at empowering young people in underserved neighborhoods. He organized the first Jaylen McClain Youth Football Camp, emphasizing leadership, skill development and confidence for aspiring athletes. McClain also volunteers during holiday seasons, running toy drives and turkey giveaways to support families in need. In addition to these outreach efforts, he has partnered with former teammates to create recorded messages that inspire students to discuss mental health openly.

The impact of McClain’s work is evident in the camps themselves, where participants gain practical football skills while building personal character. His community focus mirrors a broader trend among college athletes who leverage their platforms for social good. The combination of athletic mentorship and charitable action has earned him a spot among the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team nominees.

About the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team

The Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, created in 1992 and sponsored by Allstate since 2008, celebrates college football athletes and coaches who excel in community service, academics and athletics. This year’s 2026 class will be announced in September and will feature 22 student‑athletes plus one honorary head coach. One of the nominees will be named team captain and receive the prestigious Allstate Wuerffel Trophy for outstanding community service. The program highlights individuals who use their visibility to strengthen communities and advance causes they care about.

Both Day and McClain’s nominations reflect a growing emphasis on mental‑health advocacy and youth development within college sports. Their work not only benefits immediate communities but also sets a standard for how athletes can create lasting positive change. Fans and fellow players alike look forward to seeing how their initiatives continue to inspire others in the months ahead.