How Jack Trice's Story Has Impacted Cyclone Football Players

The story of Jack Trice and his legacy is a major part of the history of Iowa State and plays a significant role in head coach Matt Campbell's program as well, with all players learning his story. We asked a handful of players on the team how learning Jack Trice's story has affected them personally.

Jeremiah Cooper
"Learning about Jack Trice's story made me realize that character is everything. The type of person he was and what he stood for changed the whole game. His legacy made me apply some of his characteristics into my life to make sure I always stand for what I believe in and who I am."

Ben Nikkel
"Learning about the Jack Trice story when I got here was when I realized this University was special. Hearing about how he stood for something bigger than himself is something that I will carry with me as a person for the rest of my life. When he said in his letter "the world is expecting me to do big things, I will" is the best part because he probably didn't know at the time that he was about to do greater things than he imagined. Not just as a football player, but as a human being. The character of Jack Trice and the letter that he wrote impacted the lives of thousands after him and I am humbled that we get to honor him not only this Saturday, but every Saturday we run out in Jack Trice Stadium."

J.R. Singleton
I think learning about Jack Trice had a huge initial impact on my decision to attend Iowa State University. To this date, he has given me a sense of pride and honor each time I step out on that field. Knowing the sacrifice he gave for my brothers and I to share the field and play the game we love, no matter the color of our skin. I think one thing Jack Trice should be remembered for is his wherewithal to stand for something with the odds stacked against him. He didn't know what was going to happen when he moved from Ohio to Ames, but he took a leap of faith. At that time, he probably didn't know the weight of his decision, but I am blessed he did it."

Rocco Becht
"Learning about Jack Trice has been a blessing! When I got here I knew nothing about his life and what we stood for. Now in my second year here, I've learned so much about him as a person and what he stood for that I use some of that knowledge in my everyday life. Jack stood for more than just being the first African-American athlete at Iowa State, he paved the way for not only the black community but also the white community as well. That's the power that Jack Trice has had at this University and I can't wait to play for him on Saturday!"

Jaylin Noel
"Jack Trice's story has allowed me to play freely, knowing the pressures and circumstances he had gone through. Knowing he could do that makes me realize the opportunity I have and the freedoms he didn't have."

Darien Porter
"Learning about Jack Trice has affected me in a few ways. As an African-American, it gives me a lot of pride in being able to play in this stadium and represent this University because of the actions and sacrifice of Jack Trice. It also has given me a lot of perspective on what it means to truly stand for something and be a difference maker in the world."

Gerry Vaughn
"Learning his story allowed me to appreciate what he not only did for me but all African-Americans. His courage and bravery has changed many lives after him."

𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐜𝐲

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— Iowa State Football (@CycloneFB) October 6, 2023

How Jack Trice's Story Has Impacted Cyclone Football Players

Players Mentioned

Rocco Becht

Jeremiah Cooper

Ben Nikkel

Jaylin Noel

Darien Porter

J.R. Singleton

Gerry Vaughn

Sponsors

Iowa State University Athletics

How Jack Trice's Story Has Impacted Cyclone Football Players

Players Mentioned

Rocco Becht

Jeremiah Cooper

Ben Nikkel

Jaylin Noel

Darien Porter

J.R. Singleton

Gerry Vaughn

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