On June 17, Cardinal Stadium in Big Rapids, Michigan, hosted a defensive football camp that drew high school players from Big Rapids, Bay City John Glenn, Kingsley and Shepherd. The event was organized by Ferris State’s Ryan Hodges alongside Big Rapids’ Dave McCall, offering a rare chance for young athletes to learn from a program that has captured four NCAA Division II national championships in the past five years.
Championship Experience Meets Youth Development
Ferris State coaches brought the same disciplined approach that has defined their dominant college defense to the high school level. Their reputation for patience and deep technical knowledge attracted participants like Max Bollman, a 3‑star recruit committed to Miami (Ohio), who praised the instruction for its clarity and hands‑on guidance.
The camp’s schedule blended individual drills in the morning with team‑focused exercises in the afternoon, reinforcing both technique and strategic awareness. Big Rapids football coach Mike Selzer emphasized that defensive strategy is often overlooked at other camps, making this clinic a valuable opportunity for players seeking a competitive edge.
Among the attendees was senior linebacker Bryce Selzer, the Cardinals’ leading tackler, who described the experience as both a chance to compete and a chance to absorb new ideas. The blend of seasoned college coaches, championship‑winning players and motivated high school athletes created an atmosphere where defensive fundamentals could flourish.