Matt Ludwig, known on the field as ‘Moose,’ returned to his home state to run his first 5 Beats football camp in Billings, a venture that paid tribute to his late brother Nicko while raising awareness for congenital heart defects.
The three‑day camp attracted a roster of current and former Division I players who served as coaches, including NFL veterans Sam Darnold, Aidan Hutchinson and Justin Jefferson, who each pledged signed jerseys as prizes for the most outstanding participants.
Ludwig stressed that mastering the fundamentals of the game was the best way to honor Nicko’s memory, and he highlighted the importance of community support for young athletes facing heart‑related challenges.
A Camp With a Cause
All money collected during the camp was funneled to Montana Brave Hearts, a nonprofit dedicated to helping families affected by congenital heart disease, ensuring that the legacy of Ludwig’s brother translated into tangible assistance for others.
Participants left not only with skill drills and mentorship but also with a sense of purpose, knowing their involvement directly contributed to a cause that mattered to the Ludwig family.