Exactly one year ago today, I walked into my third high school in three years. I couldn’t go anywhere without hearing the whispers: “That quarterback’s a traitor.” “He doesn’t care about his teammates.” Silence is powered! So I never responded. Not once. Why? Because no one ever asked me why I transferred. No one ever asked what was really going on behind the scenes. If I was ok as a kid. And honestly, I wasn’t interested in defending myself. I mean I was voted team captain at all 3 stops. I made a personal vow instead: let your work ethic do the talking. Now, a year later, I’ve gone from questioned to recruited from doubted to trusted. And while I could write the typical “thank you” commitment post, I feel it’s more important to speak to the younger athletes coming behind me especially the Class of 2027 and beyond. Let this serve as your reminder. In one year, everything can change. You might feel like your world is crashing down. You might question if you’re good enough, liked enough, or even seen. But if you keep working, if you stay locked in, if you stay true to your vision the door will open. People are going to ask me why I chose Saginaw Valley State University. And here’s my answer: Because Coach Brady didn’t judge my story, he asked about it. He wanted to know why I didn’t have more film. Why I transferred multiple times. Why I’ve been grinding in silence. And why I believe I’m the top quarterback in the Class of 2026. More importantly, he believed in me enough to give me the opportunity to go chase national championships in red white and blue. So with that said, I’m blessed, proud, and beyond excited to announce my commitment to Saginaw Valley State University as a Quarterback!Thank you to my family, my teammates, my trainers, and every coach who ever saw me beyond the box score. This journey is far from over. Jeremiah 29:11 #AGTG #NewBeginnings With gratitude, Peyton Babbitt