The NFL is the ultimate goal for many college football players, but with only 1.6% of NCAA athletes making it to the league, according to NFL Football Operations, that dream remains out of reach for most. For Campbellsville University running back Tre Bass, however, the possibility of reaching the NFL could become a reality.
The 25-year-old from Franklin, Kentucky, started his college career at Western Kentucky University, then transferred to Campbellsville University, where he has been perfecting his craft to level up from college football.
Bass is a certified personal trainer, as well as a fitness/wellness specialist. He considers himself a “gym rat” due to his love of working out. He loves helping people learn to work out and seeing their progression.
“He gets along and cares about everyone,” Bass’s teammate, Jack Busey, said. “He treats everyone like family. He is the exact guy you want in your locker room. He brings leadership, top-tier athleticism and great effort.”
Bass is a huge family man. He has “three beautiful sisters,” and his mom is his biggest supporter and motivator.
“Seeing her work two to three jobs at a time and still make sacrifices for us day in and day out really pushes me,” Bass said. “If she can do that, then I know whatever I face, I can get through it.”
Matt Atwood, Campbellsville University’s assistant football coach and co-special teams coordinator, said every part of Bass’s game has improved since he’s been at CU, including his leadership, strength, speed and his football IQ.
“Tre leads by example and his voice,” Atwood said. “He shows guys what hard work looks like and demands it from his teammates. He guides young guys on and off the field, showing them how to work out and train.”
According to Bass, his desire to be the best motivates him daily.
“Pushing yourself to exhaustion is a good way to find who you are, so I don’t need any extra motivation when it comes to staying mentally sharp during training,” he said. “I want to be great so badly that I don’t care how I feel. I am going to get better every day.”
Bass continues to train harder than ever to ensure his physical abilities are ready to be showcased for teams at any time. His daily routine consists of waking up, going to the gym and then heading straight to the field to put in more work.
“There’s nothing he can’t do,” Coach Atwood said. “Need one tough yard? He’s got it. Need a catch out of the backfield? Ok. Need an explosive TD? Perfect, he’s the man for the job. There isn’t a more complete tailback in the country than Tre Bass.”
Bass said his training has gotten more intentional, and he’s focusing on developing “speed, strength and power.” He said he wants to get better at his specific “in-game” training, improving vision, reaction and IQ, which aren’t typically developed in the weight room, according to Bass.
Bass said he believes he has somewhat of an advantage being a fitness/wellness specialist, knowing exactly what to do when his body has been under “too much.”
According to teammate Busey, recovery work is just as important as performance-based work.
“Game day for Tre starts two days before,” Busey said. “Hydration, nutrition and rest. Gameday specifically is mental relaxation but an equal part focus.”
According to Bass, he’s dedicated to making his NFL dreams a reality, but he’s thankful to have a college degree under his belt as a backup plan.
“The only doubt I have about pro ball is not living up to the standard,” he said. “It’s a good backup plan, but having a backup plan means you don’t trust in the dream being chased.”
This experience has taught Bass a lot about himself, and it’s also put a strain on his relationship with the sport he loves. He said it’s hard staying patient when figuring out what is next.
“I’ve learned to pray more and just trust in the Lord’s timing,” he said.
According to Coach Atwood, any NFL team would be lucky to have Bass.
“Tre will be a pro’s pro,” Atwood said. “Guys in the locker room will love him. Coaches who have him on their team will thank their scouting department. Coaches who don’t have Tre on their team will hate playing against him. I can’t wait to watch.”
For Bass, his ultimate goal is simple.
“I want to be remembered as a guy who gave his absolute best for his team,” he said, “no matter what that looks like.”
