Eastern Michigan University (EMU) paid a heartfelt tribute to one of its most accomplished alumni on June 23, 2024, as it unveiled “Crosby Field” in honor of NFL star Maxx Crosby and his wife Rachel. The ceremony, captured in a touching video montage shared by Adam Schefter on Instagram, showcased the couple’s emotional journey from college athletes to benefactors of their alma mater.

The video opened with Maxx and Rachel, both beaming with pride, wielding hammers to strike down concrete blocks in a symbolic inauguration of the field. This powerful gesture represented not just the physical transformation of the space, but the lasting impact the Crosbys hope to leave on future generations of EMU athletes.

The Crosbys’ connection to EMU runs deeper than the playbook. Maxx, now a three-time Pro Bowl defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders, took to the podium with a smile that spoke volumes about his accomplishments and gratitude. In a heartfelt speech, he acknowledged the support system that made his success possible: “I wouldn’t be able to do it without this army around me. I got the best people in the world, um, support me every single day.”

The NFL star’s voice filled with emotion as he continued, “I’m not gonna start screaming, I promise. But, uh, I just wanna say, I love everyone. Thank you guys for showing up.” In a touching moment, Crosby specifically thanked his former coach: “And Coach Craig, without you giving me a chance, none of this would be possible. So, I appreciate it.”

This honor comes in the wake of a generous $1 million donation the Crosbys made to EMU’s athletic department last year. EMU’s Vice President and Director of Athletics, Scott Wetherbee, highlighted the significance of their contribution on the official website last year: “With his remarkable $1 million donation, Maxx is helping us launch Phase Two of the Championship Building Plan that will forever leave an indelible mark on our program.”

This underscores the couple’s commitment to giving back to the institution that played a pivotal role in their personal and professional lives.

The full-circle moment for Maxx and Rachel Crosby!

The naming of Crosby Field stands as a testament to more than just athletic prowess. It represents a complete moment for Maxx and Rachel, whose journey began on the very grounds of Eastern Michigan University. Maxx insisted that the field bear both their names, recognizing Rachel’s crucial role in his success both on and off the field.

Last year, in his donation statement Maxx said such words of gratitude to EMU: “Without the opportunity to attend EMU, I would not have met my wife, Rachel, who has given me the most beautiful gift imaginable in our daughter, Ella. Without EMU, I wouldn’t have the lifelong friends that now serve as advisors and business partners. Without EMU, I may not have ever had the opportunity to achieve my dream of playing in the National Football League.”

However, while the Crosby Field dedication ceremony marked their recent achievements and generosity, their history with EMU started back when it was 2016 when they first met at school as student-athletes. On the one hand, Maxx was already becoming a star football player; on the other side, Rachel had distinguished herself as a soccer player at that time.

Maxx racked up impressive stats during his time at EMU, including 20 sacks and 134 total pressures from 2016 to 2018. His performance caught the eye of NFL scouts, leading to his selection by the Raiders in the fourth round of the 2019 draft. Rachel, meanwhile, played all four years for EMU’s soccer team, rotating between center back and outside back positions. She even notched a goal and some assists in her final season.

Their shared experiences as college athletes laid the foundation for a strong partnership that has endured through Maxx’s rise to NFL stardom. Rachel, who majored in sports management at EMU, now helps run “Mad Maxx Merch,” Maxx’s merchandise website, showcasing how their teamwork extends beyond the field.

As Crosby Field stands as a new landmark on the EMU campus, it represents more than just a name on a playing surface. It’s a symbol of the transformative power of education and athletics, and a testament to the enduring bond forged between two college athletes who went on to make their mark both in professional sports and in giving back to their community.