Indiana tight end James Bomba nominated to AFCA Good Works Team

BLOOMINGTON — Indiana football tight end James Bomba was nominated to the American Football Coaches Association's Good Works Team on Wednesday.

The organization established the honor going back to 1992 as a way to recognize college football athletes for their commitment to community service. All nominees — there were 178 of them this year — must be actively involved with a charitable organization and maintain a strong academic record.

Bomba, who is a Bloomington South grad, is active with GO Bloomington, Stop the Violence Indianapolis, Inc., Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Club of Bloomington, Hoosier Ticket Project and the program’s Holiday Toy Drive. He's volunteered back at his high school as a volunteer football and men's basketball coach.

He's also gone on a volunteer Mission to the Dominican Republic with IU football and Score Intentional.

Bomba alongside fellow South grad Anthony Leal recently announced a "Backpack Blitz" for the Boys and Girls Club Bloomington. For every $50 donation, the initiative will provide local students with a backpack and 1-year club membership.

The tight end is a third-generation Indiana football letterman who followed in the footsteps of his father, Matt (1990-92), and grandfathers, Brad (1954-65) and Bob VanPelt (1964-66). James Bomba accepted a preferred walk-on offer from IU as a member of the team's 2020 signing class after going into his senior season verbally committed to Miami of Ohio.

He was put on scholarship going into the 2022 season.

"Incredibly grateful," Bomba wrote on social media, at the time. "I’ve dreamt about this my whole life. To earn an Indiana football scholarship like my dad and both of my grandpas is an honor."

Bomba will be in the rotation at tight end for new coach Curt Cignetti this season alongside JMU transfer Zach Horton and fellow returner Trey Walker. He's put up 11 catches for 75 yards with a touchdown in 20 games (10 starts).

Michael Niziolek is the Indiana beat reporter for The Bloomington Herald-Times. You can follow him on X @michaelniziolek and read all his coverage by clicking here.