Blake Corum Uses NIL Money to Impact Families in Need
In July of 2021, a court decision sent shockwaves through the world of college sports. For the first time in NCAA history, college athletes could get paid for their name, image and likeness (NIL). Now, student-athletes from all over the country can make money through endorsement deals and other avenues while they are still in college. One Michigan running back, Blake Corum, is using the money he has earned to impact families in need this holiday season.
The Michigan Man
Coming out of high school Blake Corum was poised to be a difference-maker in the Michigan offensive machine. In 2019, he was named Maryland’s Gatorade Player of the Year after having a monster senior year where he rushed for over 1,400 yards and 22- touchdowns.
Now a sophomore, Corum is showing that he can slash through defenses using his elite speed. So far this season he has rushed for 10 touchdowns and is averaging more than six yards per carry.
Give Back 2 Give Thanks
With all of his success on the field, he has been able to partner with companies like Yoke Gaming and Outback Steakhouse to make money off his brand. He used this money to buy 100 turkeys and distribute them in the of neighborhoods of Ypsilanti, Michigan, a place where he had volunteered earlier this year. He also partnered with other community organizations to provide the rest of the holiday essentials.
Corum says that going to high school in the Baltimore inter-city inspired him to give back when he can.
“It’s all about making sure the next generation can out-do you.” he told the Detroit News
“When I was growing up in the athletic world, people helped me. They looked out, they helped me,” Corum said. “I didn’t really need much, but people were there for me. I just wanted to be able to give back in any way possible whether it be giving out turkeys, just small things that put a smile on someone’s face.”
Blake Corum is a shining example of the good that student-athletes can accomplish with the new NIL rules and it’s amazing to see. Don’t forget to watch Corum as he and the Michigan Wolverines take on Iowa in the Big Ten Championship Saturday at 8 PM.
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