A local Babcock football mom is sharing her perspective on the growth of Babcock High School’s varsity football program following Friday night’s homecoming game.
In a letter submitted to Babcock News, she reflects on the players and coaches helping build the young program, the challenges that come with injuries and a developing roster, and the younger athletes who may one day follow in their footsteps.
Her message also calls on the community to continue showing up for the Trailblazers as the team prepares for Senior Night on Friday, Sept. 25.
Below is her letter:
Building a Legacy. Together.
By a local Babcock football mom
This past Friday was homecoming for Babcock High School and the varsity football team’s first home game of the season. A youth coach beside us pointed to his son and teammates in their football jerseys, watching the team they hope to join someday.
“These boys are building a program my boys will get to be part of someday. We wouldn’t miss the chance to cheer them on!”
That stayed with me. For so many local kids, this program means a chance to keep playing together in the community they call home.
Our football program is barely three years old, bringing together players from across the country. They’re competing against established football programs whose players have been together for over ten years. Building those bonds while facing that competition takes courage and grit.
Coach Mark Caruso stepped up in June and committed himself to these boys and their future. He and his staff have poured their time, patience and belief into developing players, adapting through injuries and keeping this team competing while making safety a priority.
Friday, that commitment showed. With starters sidelined, players covered both offense and defense. When possession changed, they stayed out there. After fighting to move the ball, they turned around to stop it, with little time to catch their breath.
New to Babcock, #9 Maddox Danowit led at quarterback and made several key tackles on defense. Brothers Caleb and Levi Golden led the offensive line with several tackles out injured.
On the sidelines, juniors #74 captain Henrik Smojver and #85 Anthony Altmeyer encouraged their teammates. Anthony is recovering from a shoulder injury; Henrik is cleared and excited for his first home game this Friday.
Together, they kept the game close. Senior Aiden Camp delivered several key plays, a touchdown and a homecoming crown!
I am so proud of what this team is becoming. The hardest days may shape them most: keeping commitments, stepping into new roles and returning after a loss ready to work. That is integrity in action. That is how leaders grow.
These are Trailblazers in every sense, creating a path for the kids who will follow.
Thank you to the coaches who laid the foundation, our school for believing and building the field, and every neighbor who shows up. To Coach Caruso, his staff and our players, thank you for giving us so much to believe in.
This Friday, September 25, at 7 p.m., Babcock hosts Marathon for Senior Night.
Bring a neighbor, bring the younger kids, and join us in the bleachers. Let our players look up and see a community that recognizes their grit, shares their pride and is ready to keep building this legacy with them.
