James Conner named to All-State AFCA Good Works Team

On Tuesday I had a chance to attend an event for Pitt running back James Conner being named to the All-State AFCA Good Works team. Unfortunately I couldn't make it there, but it was a pretty cool setup in that Conner was expecting to be speaking to the Shadyside Boys and Girls Club when he was surprised with the honor.

As you would expect, the team honors players for their off-field contributions and community service. Conner's work has included volunteering with the National Kidney Foundation, visits to the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, assembling Ebola caregiver kits for healthcare workers in Africa, and coordinating activities at the Mel Blount Youth Home. As the Pitt release indicated, one great thing he does is give out his game gloves to the kids at the hospital.

As a member of the team, Conner is eligible to become the captain. Fans can vote for Conner over on ESPN's site. Head on over and lob him a vote.

Pat Narduzzi had a brief statement about Conner's work. "I knew James Conner was a great running back when I arrived at Pitt," Head Coach Pat Narduzzi said. "During the past nine months I've also learned what a great young man he is. We are incredibly proud that he has been named to the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, which truly represents the very best of college football."

The MCL injury ruined his season and could mean we won't see him in a Pitt uniform again. But it's good to see him get this kind of recognition for his off-field work.