Herb Donaldson in practice and in editing boothHerb, Senior

Student-Athlete Defined

When Herb isn't in a broadcasting class learning the finer aspects of on-camera and radio reporting and behind-the-scenes production and directing, or learning about the rich history of Black people through his minor in African American studies, he'll likely be somewhere related to Leathernecks Football.

With the opening of the 2008 season, Western’s senior running back holds the No. 6 national ranking in rushing yards for active players. He also has an impressive streak dating back to his junior season of 295 touches (284 carries, 11 receptions) without a fumble.

Herb Donaldson: # 3 - Running Back

2008 Preseason

  • Lindy’s Preseason All-America First Team
  • Consensus Draft Services All-America Honorable Mention Team
  • 2008 Missouri Valley Preseason Team

2007 Awards

  • Team’s Offensive MVP
  • Associated Press All-America Third Team
  • Sports Network All-America honorable mention
  • 13th in Walter Payton Award voting
  • Gateway All-Conference First Team
  • Gateway All-Academic First Team
  • Gateway Academic Honor Roll

As a junior, Herb:

The Big Picture

"I feel I'm where I need to be at this point in my life. With school and football, I feel I'm progressing very well; and Western has been great at getting me where I need to be academically and athletically," Herb said.

"Personal awards are gratifying because it shows that your hard work is paying off and that other people have taken note. I enjoy personal accolades, but I enjoy winning even more," he added. "Hopefully my personal success will correlate with our team's success over my last two years. As long as we're winning, my stats and awards don't matter."
Going pro would be his dream, "but only 1% of college football athletes go pro, so I have to be realistic," he said.

That's why academics are important to Herb. Like football, he's interested in, and enjoys, what he does. And it shows in a GPA well above 3.00.
"Broadcasting is very hands on and you get to actually do the work," Herb said. "I enjoy learning the different aspects of the media, as well as getting in front of and behind the camera."

Now it’s time for Western Illinois students to get behind Herb and the Fighting Leathernecks and cheer them on to victory at Hanson Field.