DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht made several kids’ day by hosting a football camp at Ankeny High School.

Crowds of kids ages 6 to 16 gathered on the Ankeny High School football field as they waited for Becht. With the help of coaches, Becht led various groups through different exercises and training tips.

Andrew Kinser had twin boys participating and says the camp was a great opportunity to build up more than just physical skills.

“They’re excited to be here, they’re excited to learn more about how to be a good teammate, how to catch passes, throw passes. They were super excited when they go a catch a pass from Rocco,” said Kinser.

The camp was particularly special for an eastern Iowa boy who traveled several hours just to be at the camp.

“Rocco is out there participating with the kids, I just think it’s really special. It’s just gonna create those memories that you don’t always get,” said Luke Jones. “Especially for my son, for his birthday, that’s just something that you’ll never forget.”

Jones said his son celebrated his birthday on Friday but was even more excited to see Becht on Saturday.

This isn’t the first time Becht has hit the field with some school-age kids. Last year, Becht held a free football camp for middle-school-aged kids in Perry. Becht says there’s no better way to use his earnings than on those who benefit from it the most.

Becht, named the Pop-Tarts Bowl MVP, has been praised following an 11-3 record season in 2024. Since the season ended, Becht has spent time giving back to Ames. Last month, a portion of his NIL earnings was used to donate gaming consoles to Greenly Medical Center.