Perhaps no Commodore football player better embodies the spirit of the Vanderbilt Man that Coach Derek Mason speaks of than wide receiver Trey Ellis. As an undergrad, Ellis was the consummate well-rounded student-athlete, serving in student government, earning Academic Honor Roll honors from the SEC, and working to improve campus diversity efforts. Now, having earned a degree in political science, he is studying for a Master’s in Marketing from the Owen School of Business. A former walk-on, Ellis’ hard work earned him a scholarship this season.
My parents instilled in me a desire to have a positive impact on the community. Use whatever platform you have, whether that’s playing football or being involved on campus, to positively impact the people around you.
My dad was a high school teacher and coach and my mom works in hospice, so they’re always doing things for other people. Plus, my Christian upbringing taught me to love my neighbor.
When I was in middle school, I was a part of a National Youth Leadership Conference trip to Washington, D.C. and got a chance to immerse myself in that political culture. But even before that, I felt that politics was something I want to do in my life.
My goal is to become a Senator someday. There’s no grander scale to help people than to do it on the national stage.
There seems to be a lack of care for the common human being in national politics right now. A lot more thought should go into how policies impact individuals and families, regardless of their backgrounds. If people at higher levels realized that, I think there would be a lot more concord instead of discord.
My father played wide receiver at Florida when Emmitt Smith was there. So, when I caught that tipped pass against Western Kentucky last year, it was cool to be able to say that I was able to score a touchdown as an SEC football player. I’m looking forward to making more plays, and better plays.
I’m a proponent of the mantra of faith, consistency and hard work. When I was awarded a scholarship, I felt like it was a culmination of all three of those values. But I also feel like it’s not the end for me. It’s a goal I’m glad I reached, but my work is not done. I feel that I have an even higher point to reach when it comes to football, and that is to have the opportunity to play in the NFL.
Coach Mason has a saying, “Be where your feet are.” That’s what sets the Vanderbilt Man apart from other athletes. We put our all into athletics when we’re on the football field, but we also want to shine in the classroom, shine in extracurriculars outside of sports. RTI — Relentless, Tough and Intelligent — applies outside of football, too.
When I was hurt and had to sit out, it brought me closer to God and made me understand who’s in control. I wasn’t able to play, but I was very supportive of my teammates and was able to foster relationships with other people on campus. It was a time of great focus and intensity in every aspect.
Going from political science as an undergrad to business school for a master’s in marketing is a big change, but it’s one of the great things about going to school at Vanderbilt. I’m always interested in learning new things. As I gain more knowledge of business and finance, I’ll be even stronger in the future whatever I do.
We have a lot of talent on this team and a lot of people who make plays. We’re focused and diligent about our work. It’s a family deal. We’re making sure we take care of each other and that our minds are set for September 1 and beyond. I’m very optimistic about what my brothers and I have in store for the world to see.
Interviewed by Andrew Maraniss
Behind the Dores: Trey Ellis
