Despite being incarcerated, Troy Ave is continuing to prove a presence out in the world on Monday [June 13], when friends and family gathered to announce a scholarship the Brooklyn rapper has set up in his fallen friend's name. Tracey Collins, who is the mother of Troy [Roland Collins], convened with the coaching staff of the New Utrecht High School football team to present the Ronald McPhatter award to senior defensive end Gianni Penso. The scholarship has been funded through 2020 to promise $2,000 each year to a student athlete who keeps good grades while excelling on the field.
“When my son suggested [the scholarship] from jail I thought it was brilliant,” said Mrs. Collins before referring to McPhatter by his nickname, Edgar. “Edgar would love it, it’s such a good way to represent him.”
Both Troy Ave and McPhatter attended and played for New Utrecht, bringing their friendship, which went back to childhood, all the more closer. Before presenting the award, Mrs. Collins spoke on having viewed McPhatter as another one of her sons, recalling his loyal friendship with Troy and how devastated he was over McPhatter's death. Head coach Alan Balkan shared commonalities between McPhatter and Penso, who will be attending Pace University in the fall. “Both Penso and McPhatter came to New Utrecht a little later in their careers and proved themselves as dynamite athletes and dynamite players,” he said.
“I just want to thank this family,” Penso said from beside the life sized $2,000 check. “Football has taught me a lot, you guys taught me how to be a man, and I’m just so thankful.”
Troy remains behind bars at Rikers Island where he awaits his June 22 court date without bail. Last week it was announced that a grand jury had selected to indict him, but the charges, which were last reported to be for attempted murder and weapons possession, remained sealed. While police have mentioned that they are investigating the possibility of the involvement of another suspect in the May 25 Irving Plaza shooting, Troy is the only person in custody at this time. He faces the potential that charges may be upgraded to murder.
