Robby Delgado always wanted to play football at URI. Whether he was attending games, participating in camps, or meeting the student-athletes, Robby had his mind set on playing football for the Rams.

“Growing up, I was always an athlete, but my parents and coaches emphasized that without the grades, football is nothing,” he said. “I have always strived to be the best I can be in the classroom and on the football field.” He was recognized for his academic success by being named a Colonial Athletic Association Academic All-Conference selection for four consecutive seasons.

“I was able to maintain my GPA as well as my athletic success by staying disciplined and making sacrifices,” he said. “Trying to balance football with studying and then trying to have somewhat of a social life can be very challenging, but it was always rewarding at the end of the season.”

Robby’s world encompasses much more than just classroom and the gridiron. He traveled to New Orleans on spring break to help people still recovering from the effects of Hurricane Katrina. And as an intern for the South County YMCA, he organizes and implements daily workout routines for children from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade.

“Growing up in East Providence, I could have either gone down the good path or the bad path. I remember the adults in the neighborhood would keep an eye out for me just to make sure I didn’t get into trouble,” Robby said. “That’s what I’m trying to do with these younger kids. It takes two people to make a baby, but a community to raise one. I want to give back and help push these young students to stay in school and become successful adults.”