Albany State Alumnus and NFL Player, Grover Stewart, Visits ASYEP Summer Camp

Over 300 middle and high school students attending the Albany State University (ASU) Youth Enrichment Program (ASYEP) had the opportunity to meet and hear from alumnus and National Football League (NFL) player, Grover Stewart.

“I love Albany State. This school gave me a chance, and I am glad I chose ASU,” said Stewart.

During his time on the ASU football team, he had a record of 141 tackles and was named to the 2013 SIAC All-Conference first team. In 2022, he was selected as a recipient of the Black College Football Pro Player of the Year presented by the NFL Players Association. In 2023, he received the Young Alumni Award from the ASU Foundation. 

“Big G” was introduced by his aunt, Tammy Stewart, a staff member for the ASYEP Summer Camp. Stewart, a 2017 alumnus and defensive tackle for the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts, spoke to the students about respecting elders, having positive energy, overcoming adversity, and believing in yourself.

“I’m going to share my path through Albany State because some of you may walk my same steps,” said Stewart. He shared that coming from the small town of Camilla, people did not believe in him, so he attacked each day before it attacked him. However, in his first year at ASU, he started skipping practice and failing classes, leaving him to be kicked off the team. The following year, he “tightened up” and showed the coaches he was serious about football and his education.

He took summer courses and passed every one, while practicing overtime to get back on the team. Finally, the coaches gave him a second chance. Stewart used this opportunity wisely, and his hard work paid off. “Every NFL team came to Albany State to see me,” he said.

After Stewart’s speech, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the ASU Foundation, Valerie Melton, invited the camp counselors onstage to present him with a gift. During the Q+A session, students asked Stewart questions ranging from his favorite food to his daily activities. The day ended with a photo and autograph opportunity.

The ASYEP is a community outreach initiative designed to provide youth within the city of Albany, and Dougherty, and surrounding counties in southwest Georgia, an opportunity to engage in various enrichment activities.