Many exceptional players and leaders have passed through the Woody Hayes Athletic Center, but each season only a few are chosen as captains—in the 2024 season, four players received the honor.
On Sunday, Ohio State announced the selection of wide receiver Emeka Egbuka, running back TreVeyon Henderson, defensive end Jack Sawyer, and linebacker Cody Simon as team captains for the year. Following this announcement, the team shared videos of each player breaking the news to their families with their coaches present.
First was Simon, who received the news from linebackers coach James Laurinaitis that he had garnered the most votes for captaincy. Simon was also honored as the recipient of the team’s “Block O” jersey for his senior year. His father, Mike Simon, became emotional upon hearing the news.
Captain calls 📞 @Cody_Simon30 pic.twitter.com/yTegCDWInO
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) August 18, 2024
Next, Henderson, with running backs coach Carlos Locklyn by his side, shared the news with his family. While Henderson’s father has been part of his life, his mother, Lakeesha Hayes, was the primary caregiver after she and his father separated. The captaincy announcement was a meaningful moment for both parents.
Captain calls 📞 @TreVeyonH4 pic.twitter.com/KCfNhQ1N9v
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) August 18, 2024
Sawyer’s call was particularly emotional. As a local player who has always dreamed of being a Buckeye, Sawyer’s father, Lyle, expressed his joy, saying, “You just made my year, holy cow,” as he and Sawyer’s mother, Michelle, listened.
Captain Calls 📞 @jacksawyer33 pic.twitter.com/qcycqIX2gx
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) August 18, 2024
Finally, Egbuka shared the news with his mother, Rhonda Ogilvie, who was moved to tears. “I’m just proud of you,” she said. “You’ve worked so hard.”
Captain Calls 📞 @emeka_egbuka pic.twitter.com/bel1min2I9
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) August 18, 2024