Maxx Crosby commits $1 million for improvements to EMU athletics

Eastern Michigan University football/current Las Vegas Raiders standout Maxx Crosby, along with his wife/former EMU soccer student-athlete, Rachel, has committed $1 million to the EMU Athletics Department, Vice President/Director of Athletics Scott Wetherbee announced today, Oct. 30.

As recognition of the Crosbys’ generosity, the football playing surface inside Rynearson Stadium will be named after him.

“First and foremost, Eastern Michigan University holds a very special place in my heart and I am incredibly grateful for the significant role my EMU experience has played in shaping my life as an athlete and as a man,” mentioned Crosby. “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. With an immense amount of humility and gratitude for the continued support of the administration, teachers, coaches, athletes, and students, I am committing to a $1 million gift to Eastern Michigan University Athletics.”

Eastern Athletics continues to develop a comprehensive and transformative vision to enhance academic opportunities, improve health and well-being for all students, and update athletic facilities to positively impact the community and all those connected to the University.

“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,” said Wetherbee. “When he came back this summer for the Champions 4 Life Series, we had great conversations about his and Rachel’s desire to make an impact on our athletic programs. Their dedication to our Athletic Department’s future is nothing short of game-changing. We’re deeply thankful for their commitment and passion for championing excellence in every aspect.”

The second phase of the Championship Building Plan is pending approval by the EMU Board of Regents. Further details and renderings will be made public as they become available.

Phase one of the Championship Building Plan was initially approved in December 2017 with the approval for construction of the Student-Athlete Performance Center, which officially opened Aug. 27, 2019. Heavily supported by fundraising efforts, it was part of the athletic department’s plan to build a safe and highly effective atmosphere for its student-athletes.

During his time at EMU, Crosby showcased unparalleled skill and dedication to the game. His impressive record of 20.0 career sacks places him among the top defensive players in EMU’s history. Additionally, his 41.0 career tackles-for-loss stands as the third-highest in the university’s storied football program. In 2017, Crosby equaled the EMU single-season record for sacks, a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.

Throughout his professional career, Crosby has consistently showcased his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His remarkable athleticism and skill set have earned him accolades, including being named NFL All-Pro second team by The Associated Press. In the 2021 Pro Bowl, hosted in Las Vegas, Crosby delivered yet another awe-inspiring performance, earning the game’s Defensive MVP award. His two sacks, five total tackles, and three tackles for loss left an indelible mark on the field and in the hearts of fans.

Crosby returns to southeast Michigan Monday, Oct. 30, for a primetime showdown at Ford Field, as the Raiders play against the Detroit Lions. Game time is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN and ABC.

*This is an issued press release from the Eastern Michigan University athletics department.