Gavin Bartholomew Named to Allstate AFCA Good Works Team
9/12/2023 12:00:00 PM | Football
PITTSBURGH—Pitt junior tight end Gavin Bartholomew has been named to the 2023 Allstate American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Good Works Team, a prestigious honor that recognizes college football student-athletes for their dedication to community service and the positive impact they have made on the lives of others.
Bartholomew is one of 22 players named to this year's team, which was selected from a nationwide pool of 136 nominees. Eleven players were chosen from the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), while the additional 11 players represent the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), Division II, Division III and NAIA levels of play.
"I am incredibly honored to be named to this year's Good Works Team by Allstate and the American Football Coaches Association," Bartholomew said. "At Pitt, we look at it as our responsibility to give back and help others in need. We have had some outstanding people named to this prestigious team over the years and I'm really blessed to join them."
Bartholomew is the eighth Pitt player to be named to the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. The Panthers' previous honorees are defensive end Deslin Alexandre (2022), long snapper Cal Adomitis (2021), wide receiver Tre Tipton (2019), linebacker Mike Caprara (2016), running back James Conner (2015), quarterback Tyler Palko (2006) and quarterback Alex Van Pelt (1992).
"We are extremely proud of Gavin and his many community efforts that resulted in this prestigious recognition," Pitt head coach Pat Narduzzi said. "He is carrying on a great Pitt football tradition of making a difference well beyond what he does on the field. Our entire program congratulates Gavin and his family for this richly deserved honor."
Bartholomew is in his third year as a starting tight end for the Panthers. He is considered one of the top players at his position in the ACC and nationally. Last month he was named to the watch list for the John Mackey Award, annually presented to the nation's top tight end. Bartholomew has played in 29 career games, compiling 54 receptions for 727 yards and seven touchdowns.
From a community service standpoint, Bartholomew led an effort on behalf of the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank to benefit undeserved children and families throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania. Following the collection, he personally delivered and distributed the food to those in need.
Bartholomew additionally visited Children's Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center, serving as an ambassador for the organization at the 2023 Children's Home of Pittsburgh Gala.
He is a multiple-time participant in the "Night to Shine" Prom sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation, serving as a "buddy" for a Special Olympics athlete at the event. Bartholomew then attended a Special Olympics Power Lifting Competition with his buddy, supporting and encouraging him to perform at his very best.
Bartholomew's additional community service includes patient visits at Pittsburgh VA Medical Center, leading a blood donation drive and helping to host Make-A-Wish children at the Pitt football facility.
Pitt fans are encouraged to visit ESPN.com/Allstate, where they can cast their vote once a day for Bartholomew to be named Captain of the 2023 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. Voting runs until November 22.
