Virginia senior coxswain Shelby Bavin was named captain of the 2025-26 Allstate NACDA Spring Good Works Team, according to an announcement by Allstate and the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics on May 5.
The team recognizes 20 student-athletes, evenly split between men and women, for their outstanding community service across all divisions and multiple spring sports. The recognition highlights student-athletes who have made significant impacts beyond their athletic achievements.
Bavin has contributed more than 2,000 hours as a volunteer firefighter and emergency medical technician with the Seminole Trail Volunteer Fire Department, serving Charlottesville and Albemarle County. She is the first volunteer firefighter or EMT to be named captain in the history of this award. In addition to her work as a first responder, Bavin participates in several community service initiatives. She is part of Athletes in Action’s servant leadership team and helped organize UVA’s Operation Christmas Child initiative, which provided nearly 800 gift boxes for children globally. On Sundays, she volunteers as a student-athlete coach with Run Charlottesville to mentor children in sportsmanship and teamwork.
“Competing for the University of Virginia is a privilege, but the greatest blessing has been being part of a team that supports each other far beyond the water,” Bavin said. “Service is at the heart of Virginia Rowing, and I truly strive to carry that into every aspect of my life. Through my work with the Seminole Trail Fire Department and Athletes in Action (FCA), I’ve pursued a deeper calling to serve others and love my neighbor. I’m grateful to Allstate and NACDA for recognizing the service that means so much to me. It is an honor to be named captain and stand alongside teammates who use their platforms to make a difference. I hope our stories inspire others to step into their communities to serve.”
Beyond her roles as firefighter and EMT, Bavin leads Bible Study sessions for her rowing team, serves as a grant reviewer through UVA’s Champions of the Community program supporting nonprofits, coaches local youth athletes on teamwork values, co-led efforts delivering hundreds of gift boxes worldwide through Operation Christmas Child initiative at UVA, participates actively with Athletes in Action (FCA), and received recognition such as ACC Top Six for Service Award.
