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Gibson makes appearance at Big Blue Football Camp

Rogers alumnus makes triumphant return to his alma mater for camp

Shaun Scott

Attendees of the annual Rogers Rams Big Blue Football Camp got a rare opportunity to meet a South Hill legend.

Brandon Gibson, a 2005 Rogers graduate and current National Football League wide receiver, shared words of wisdom with local campers at Big Blue Football Camp. Gibson jumped at the opportunity to return his hometown to guide youngsters on the football field.

“I was in town and coach (Gene) Bowen asked me if I would like to come help out at the camp with the kids,” Gibson said. “I like helping out at Rogers when I can.”

Bowen was grateful Gibson took time out of his busy schedule to attend Big Blue’s four-day camp from July 12-15. Gibson currently is working out twice a day in preparation for the 2010 NFL season.

“The fact that Brandon is willing to spend his time with these kids is great,” Bowen said. “He is a busy guy getting ready for an NFL season. He has a great attitude and carries himself with class. It is a great thing for kids to see.”

Rams senior wide receiver Kellen Westering has known Gibson since meeting him at Big Blue football camp five years ago.

“I’ve known him for quite a while. Brandon is one of my mentors and idols,” Westering said. “Brandon knows I have the ability to play at the next level and about once a week I get a chance to workout with him. He shows me tips to improve my skills as a receiver.”

This year 54 players were in attendance at Big Blue football camp.

“It’s a little down enrollment-wise compared to years past but the great thing is that I’m seeing some of the same faces every year,” Bowen said. “There has been kids here who’ve come to Big Blue for the past four years.”

Rogers senior linebacker/lineman Drake Watson didn’t flinch while holding a clipboard for the majority of camp, barking out instructions to campers.

“It’s fun seeing the other side of it. Usually someone is coaching me,” Watson said. “It’s special to project my knowledge of football to these younger guys. I want them to understand as much as they can and become better football players.”

Westering attended the Big Blue camp from 2005 through 2007.

“I came to this camp from seventh through ninth grade,” Westering said. “Here you get an opportunity to learn the game without pads, which is so important at a young age. I was at another camp last week and kids were getting hurt because it was full contact. At Big Blue, it’s non-padded and kids get better by learning new skills and by the end they are way better than when they got here.”

Rams wide receiver Max McIntosh agreed with Westering’s assessment.

“The kids are learning but this is also teaching us how to coach, too,” McIntosh said. “The experience we’re getting and the kids are getting is invaluable.”

Gibson said the goal of the camp is to instill camaraderie amongst the players.

“I hope the kids learn that football first and foremost is a team sport,” Gibson said. “It’s about having fun with your teammates and doing the best you can.”