Detroit Lions RB David Montgomery hosts youth football camp in Lansing
Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery recently hosted a youth football camp at Lansing Sexton High School, providing more than 250 young athletes between the ages of 6 and 16 with an unforgettable opportunity to train, learn, and be inspired by a professional NFL player. For many of these children, it was their first experience engaging so closely with a pro athlete, and the excitement surrounding the event was evident from the very beginning. As families arrived early in the morning, the energy was buzzing throughout the high school field.
The camp began with a structured check-in process where attendees received t-shirts, water bottles, and gear provided by sponsors who had partnered with Montgomery to support the event. Groups were divided based on age and skill level to ensure a tailored experience for each camper. Coaches, many of whom were former high school and collegiate players, guided participants through the day’s schedule. While the event was clearly organized and planned in advance, it never lost the genuine atmosphere of encouragement and mentorship.
David Montgomery used the brief break from Organized Team Activities with the Detroit Lions to make a lasting impact in the community. His presence at the camp was far from symbolic—he was deeply involved in every aspect of the program. From the outset, he made a point of welcoming the kids and their parents personally, shaking hands, offering high-fives, and even remembering some of their names throughout the day. His humility and warmth resonated with attendees, and it quickly became clear that this wasn’t just a photo-op or promotional stunt. Montgomery was genuinely there to connect and inspire.
The camp began with dynamic warm-up routines including jumping jacks, stretches, sprints, and basic mobility drills. Montgomery moved between groups during these exercises, demonstrating proper technique and encouraging the children to push themselves while maintaining focus on safety. His knowledge and enthusiasm translated well to the young players, who responded with excitement and dedication. Watching an NFL running back execute the same drills they were doing made the experience both educational and surreal for many of the campers.
After warm-ups, the athletes rotated through a series of skill-based stations. These included agility ladders, cone drills, tackling dummies, passing and receiving exercises, and positional footwork practice. At each station, Montgomery provided live demonstrations, often performing the drills himself with the kind of intensity and precision expected from a professional. His coaching style was a balance of technical instruction and motivational guidance. He corrected mistakes gently, praised progress, and encouraged everyone to support their teammates.
Montgomery frequently paused to speak with campers about the mental and emotional aspects of the game. He spoke candidly about his own experiences growing up in Cincinnati, the challenges he faced on his path to college football at Iowa State, and the determination it took to earn his place in the NFL. He emphasized the importance of discipline, academic success, and personal integrity, reinforcing the idea that athletic skill alone isn’t enough to succeed. These moments were some of the most impactful parts of the day. Campers listened intently, and many later described these talks as the most memorable parts of the event.
During water breaks, Montgomery circulated through the crowd, chatting with parents, volunteers, and community leaders. Many of the adults expressed gratitude not only for the camp itself but also for the example Montgomery was setting. His involvement in the event sent a strong message about responsibility, role modeling, and the power of using one’s platform for good. Several local coaches commented that Montgomery’s presence would have a lasting effect not just on the campers, but on the entire youth football community in Lansing.
A healthy lunch was provided mid-day, with local sponsors donating sandwiches, fruits, snacks, and beverages to keep the campers nourished. Montgomery joined the kids during lunch, sitting at tables with them, answering questions, signing autographs, and taking photos. He also shared more personal stories, including moments of self-doubt, mentorship from older players, and his transition to life in the NFL. His approachability and openness struck a chord with the campers, many of whom saw him not just as an NFL player but as a relatable figure who had worked hard to overcome adversity.
In the afternoon, the camp transitioned into team-based activities, with groups playing scrimmage-style flag football games. The games allowed campers to apply the skills they’d learned in the morning in a competitive but friendly setting. Montgomery served as a coach, referee, and cheerleader throughout, offering tips from the sideline, celebrating touchdowns, and helping kids reset after mistakes. The emphasis remained on effort, sportsmanship, and improvement rather than winning or losing.
As the games wrapped up, a final ceremony was held to recognize each camper’s participation. Montgomery personally handed out certificates, posed for group and individual photos, and gave each child a few words of encouragement. The smiles on the faces of the children and the applause from the parents illustrated how successful and meaningful the day had been.
The impact of the camp extended beyond the field. Several parents commented afterward that their children came home more confident and excited not only about football but also about school and personal goals. One mother shared that her son had struggled with motivation but had already started writing out a list of things he wanted to improve on after the camp. A father noted that his daughter, one of a small number of girls attending the camp, felt empowered and included thanks to Montgomery’s support and the inclusive environment.
For Montgomery, the camp was a reflection of values he holds close—giving back to the community, inspiring youth, and promoting hard work and accountability. He mentioned that he plans to expand the camp in future years, potentially hosting it in multiple cities across Michigan. He also expressed interest in starting a foundation focused on youth development, education, and athletics. The success of the Lansing event certainly provided a strong foundation for those ambitions.
The local community was also positively impacted by the event. Lansing Sexton High School received a donation of athletic equipment from the camp sponsors, and several local vendors benefited from the increased visibility and participation. Media coverage of the event showcased not only Montgomery’s contributions but also the strength of the Lansing community’s support for youth sports.
The camp also reinforced a broader truth about professional athletes and their role in society. While the NFL and other sports leagues often highlight the performance and statistics of players, events like Montgomery’s camp remind everyone that athletes can also be mentors, educators, and agents of positive change. The genuine connections made during the camp—whether in a drill, a casual chat, or a shared moment of laughter—had a profound impact that went far beyond the scoreboard.
As the sun began to set and families packed up their cars, the field at Lansing Sexton remained scattered with footprints, cones, and discarded water bottles—a quiet testament to the day’s events. The campers left with new skills, memories, and a renewed sense of purpose. For some, it might have been the spark that ignites a lifelong love of football. For others, it may simply serve as a reminder that hard work, kindness, and community can open doors.
Whether or not these young athletes ever play a down of football in collFor David Montgomery, the camp was a small but significant way to make a difference. ege or the pros, they left the camp having been seen, supported, and believed in. That kind of inspiration lasts long after the final whistle.
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