Kirlew named to Allstate AFCA Good Works Team

IU defensive end Jammie Kirlew has a passion for crushing quarterbacks – and film, politics, business and community service.

On Tuesday, his many talents were recognized.

Kirlew was selected to the 2009 Allstate American Football Coaches Association Good Works team. The distinction is presented to 22 college football players across the country who demonstrate hard work and dedication on and off the field.

“It’s a tremendous feeling,” Kirlew said. “Looking at some of the names of the guys who won the year before, and the guys there now, it’s just amazing. Especially when you get rewarded for living your life and doing good things.”

This summer, a record 106 players were nominated for the award.

Lisa Cochrane, vice president of marketing for Allstate, said it is important to recognize the student-athletes who make a difference to the world around them.

“Allstate has been inspired by the commitment and sacrifice these student-athletes have made to better our communities and improve the lives of our neighbors,” Cochrane said in a press release. “As a proud partner of the AFCA, we feel that it’s our responsibility to shine a spotlight on these young men for the outstanding impact they’ve made off the field.”    

And in his four years in Bloomington, Kirlew has done just that.  

He is a three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection as a double major in the School of Public and Environmental Affairs, pursuing degrees in management and public financial management. Kirlew is also an active member of the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Program and has volunteered in the past at the Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington.   

In addition, Kirlew studied abroad in Italy during the summer of 2006 and worked with President Obama’s campaign in 2008, registering voters. He also directed a short film for a national student-film competition.

Coach Bill Lynch said the work Kirlew has done outside of football is remarkable.

“It is a great award for Jammie,” Lynch said. “I know he is going to be introduced at the Sugar Bowl, which is very prestigious. We are very happy for Jammie and it is very well-deserved.”

Aside from his work in the classroom, Kirlew has also played a large part in the Hoosiers’ 3-0 record, the first time since 2007. He leads IU with 2.5 sacks in three games and is fifth on the team in tackles with 11.     

Kirlew is on the watchlists for the Ted Hendricks, Chuck Bednarik and Rotary Lombardi Awards.

But while Kirlew enjoys his time on the gridiron, he said he has many other aspirations after his football career is over.   

“I would like to play football for as long as I can,” Kirlew said. “One of my big goals is to come back and go to law school at IU, and then take life from there.”