(Editor's Note:  This is part of a series of stories of the RUDY Award finalists.  Two winners – one male and one female – will be announced at the conclusion of the end of the R.UD.Y.S. Awards Banquet on Monday.  

R.U.D.Y.S. stands for Recognition and celebration of University of Dayton student-athletes Year-end Showcase.  It is hosted by the UD Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and Dayton Athletics administration for the student-athletes to recognize individuals and teams for their accomplishments this past year.
 
These stories were written by students in Dr. Haozho Pu's HS 353 Sports Media class.)

Written by Elizabeth McGurn, Aaron Troutman, John Hall

For redshirt senior safety Mac Grant III, football has been more than just a game. It has been a test of resilience, a lesson in responsibility and a pathway to purpose. A sport management major from Richmond, Virginia, Grant has steadily developed into a key contributor for the University of Dayton football team. In the 2025 season, he appeared in 11 games, recording 28 total tackles, including 12 solo stops. He also made a major impact defensively with two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown, and added a fumble recovery.

But Grant's journey has not been defined by statistics alone. Describing himself as "adaptable, consistent and hard-working," Grant credits his ability to respond to challenges and remain dependable as central to his growth. That mindset was tested early in his career when he experienced his first significant injury. "It was new to me," Grant said. "It changed my mindset. It took a toll, but it made me appreciate the ability to play again."

That moment became a turning point, shaping how he approaches both football and life. As a student-athlete balancing academics and athletics, Grant said the experience taught him discipline and helped him discover what truly matters. "Being a student-athlete has helped me find a deeper sense of purpose," he said. "It's about being responsible and understanding what's valuable." Grant's dedication has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, he received the Lt. Andy Zulli Memorial Award, one of the team's most prestigious honors. The award reflects not only performance, but also character and commitment. "It was an honor from the team," Grant said. "It showed that my effort paid off and that I embody what it means to be a Flyer."

Over time, Grant's role on the team has expanded. After beginning his career as a redshirt, he now plays a larger role on the field, embracing every opportunity to contribute. "It showed me the importance of every role," he said. "Everyone has value in any situation." For Grant, being a Flyer is about more than football. It is about the relationships and experiences that have shaped his college career. "I've met great people and had great experiences," he said. "I'm grateful for everything." Looking ahead, Grant hopes to stay connected to the sport that has given him so much. After graduation, he plans to give back by coaching at the youth level and helping others develop through the game.

Q: Describe yourself in three words?
A: I would describe myself as adaptable, consistent, and hard-working. I try to react to whatever situation I'm given and be someone my teammates can always count on.

Q: What does being a Flyer mean to you?
A: Being a Flyer means I've been able to meet great people and have a lot of meaningful experiences. I'm really grateful for everything I've been able to be a part of here at Dayton.

Q: What is one of the most influential moments in your athletic career?
A: My first injury was one of the most influential moments for me. It was new to me and changed my mindset, but it also made me appreciate the opportunity to play again.

Q: How has being a student-athlete contributed to your personal growth and development?
A: Being a student-athlete has taught me how to balance two major commitments and be more responsible. It helped me figure out what's important and find a deeper sense of purpose.

Q: What are your future goals and aspirations after graduating from UD?
A: After graduating, I want to give back to the game by coaching at the youth level. I also want to help younger athletes grow and develop through football.

Q: You received the Lt. Andy Zulli Memorial Award. What does it mean to you?
A: It's one of the team's most prestigious awards, so it meant a lot to me. It was an honor coming from my team and showed that my effort and commitment paid off.

Q: How has your expanded role on the team helped you succeed?
A: As my role has grown, I've been able to contribute more on the field. It showed me the importance of every role and that everyone has value in any situation.