Trey Nadin grew up here in St. Augustine, graduating Pedro Menendez High School before starting studies at UNF. Trey can’t remember a time when he wasn’t involved in sports – mainly tackle and flag football, roller hockey, and lacrosse. His dad Gregg and grandfather Robert get credit for fostering his passion for sports; friends Christian Geiger and Nathan Dean get kudos for encouragement and support.
Now approaching the 20-year age milestone, Trey has already played, coached, organized, and mentored; he currently holds a leadership role with Jax Pack, the official marketing arm of the Jacksonville Jaguars where he received a promotion to Team Captain after only 6 months. He also produces, scripts, and hosts his own radio show called “Birds of Trey” that airs every Tuesday at 2pm on 95.5. Impressive, right? Even so, it’s his heart, his spirit, and his attitude that really set him apart.
Trey’s accomplishments are built on advice he’s received from just two people. The first was his dad, who told him very early on, “No matter what you do, do it to the fullest and work as hard as possible. Do what you feel God has called you to do, no matter what anyone else might say. And know that we will always have your back.” The second was Adam Schefter, NFL insider for ESPN, who Trey met during a self-funded trip to a career management conference in Indianapolis. Schefter’s advice wasn’t glamorous and it wasn’t easy: “Take the job that nobody wants, take the time to show you’re committed, and take rejection as opportunity. When someone says you can’t, show them that you can.”
Trey went home, was referred to Jax Pack by a church friend, took an offer to join the team, and quickly went about putting all that advice into practice. He took on more than he was tasked with, took advantage of shifts and gaps in management to prove his worth, showed up early and stayed late, and helped whenever and wherever he was needed. Less than six months later, he was Jax Pack Team Captain.
Trey emphasizes that, for him, “Sports is more than an activity; it’s a family, it’s a community, it’s something that brings people together.” One of his favorite activities as Jax Pack Team Captain, is something called TeamMate Tuesday where he visits elementary schools and interacts with the kids. “We bring free, fun stuff, play outdoor games, and let them know they’re important. They don’t care that I’m not a player, it’s just the fact that someone from the Jaguars took time from their day to come and hang out.”
Trey’s dream job would be one that combines sports with community or public relations, but even now, he assumes leadership roles naturally and seems well prepared for the inevitable challenges. “I have a good support system, a strong faith in God, and great friends and family. I’ll just take challenges one step at a time.”
Photography by Kate Gardiner
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