Colston Loveland gives back to his hometown with fundraiser and football camp

Colston Loveland, the standout tight end for the Michigan Wolverines and a rising star in college football, returned to his roots this weekend with a powerful message of gratitude, mentorship, and community engagement. Hosting a football camp and organizing a local fundraiser in his hometown of Gooding, Idaho, Loveland offered more than just drills and autographs—he provided inspiration and hope to the next generation.

In a town with a population of just over 3,000, Loveland has become a household name, not just for his athletic feats but for the pride he brings to the community. As one of the most highly touted tight ends in the country, Loveland’s performances on the field at Michigan have earned him national recognition and NFL buzz. But despite his growing fame, the 6-foot-5 athlete has never forgotten where he came from.

On a warm Saturday morning, the Gooding High School football field came alive with energy as over 200 kids from across the Magic Valley region showed up for the inaugural “Loveland Football Camp.” Participants, ranging in age from elementary to high school students, were put through position drills, agility exercises, and team-building activities led by Loveland, former teammates, and local coaches. Parents watched from the sidelines, many wearing maize and blue in support of their hometown hero.

“I wanted to give these kids something I never had growing up—a chance to learn from someone who’s walked in their shoes and gone on to play at a high level,” Loveland said. “When I was younger, I had big dreams, but I didn’t always know if they were possible. I want them to see that if I can make it out of a small town like Gooding, so can they.”

The camp wasn’t just about football. Loveland opened the event with a talk about discipline, goal-setting, and the importance of education. He emphasized the value of staying grounded, listening to mentors, and making smart choices on and off the field. For many in attendance, it was a rare opportunity to hear directly from a Division I athlete who once walked their very same hallways.

But Loveland’s impact this weekend went beyond the field. That evening, he hosted a community fundraiser at the Gooding County Fairgrounds, with proceeds benefiting the Gooding Youth Athletics Foundation and a scholarship fund for graduating seniors. The event featured a silent auction, dinner, and speeches from coaches and local leaders. Items up for auction included signed Michigan gear, game-worn cleats, and memorabilia from Loveland’s college career.

“It’s not every day a small-town kid comes back with this kind of heart,” said Brad White, Loveland’s former high school coach. “Colston was always a gifted athlete, but what’s impressed me most is how he’s stayed true to his values. He’s using his platform the right way.”

The fundraiser drew a crowd of nearly 500 people, with many attendees expressing awe at how much Loveland had accomplished in such a short time. Now entering his junior season at Michigan, Loveland is projected to be a top NFL Draft pick in 2026, according to several scouting services. He finished last season with 649 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns, earning All-Big Ten honors and emerging as a key weapon in Jim Harbaugh’s offense.

Loveland’s ascent has been meteoric, but he attributes much of his success to his upbringing. “This community shaped me. My coaches, my teachers, my family—they believed in me even when the odds were long,” he said. “I never forget that. And I want to make sure I give back, not just with words, but with action.”

Indeed, Loveland’s actions this weekend resonated deeply with both children and adults. One young camper, 10-year-old Mason Hall, clutched a signed football with wide eyes. “I got to run drills with Colston Loveland! He told me I had good hands,” Mason beamed. “I want to play for Michigan too one day.”

Parents echoed the enthusiasm. “He’s a role model,” said Elena Gomez, whose two sons attended the camp. “We need more athletes who remember where they came from. He could be anywhere right now, but he chose to be here.”

Local businesses chipped in to support the weekend’s events. Several restaurants donated food for the fundraiser, while a local print shop produced custom T-shirts reading “Loveland Camp 2025.” A portion of the proceeds from merchandise sales went directly to the scholarship fund, which will award two $2,500 scholarships annually to Gooding High School seniors pursuing higher education or vocational training.

“It’s about planting seeds,” Loveland explained. “If this scholarship helps just one kid chase their dream, then it’s all worth it.”

The weekend was also an emotional one for Loveland’s family. His parents, Kris and Erin Loveland, helped organize logistics and spoke during the fundraiser. Erin fought back tears as she thanked the community for the outpouring of support.

“We’ve watched Colston grow into not just a great player, but a great person,” she said. “He’s never let success change who he is. We’re so proud of the man he’s become.”

For the town of Gooding, Loveland’s return felt like more than just a celebrity homecoming—it was a reminder of the values that knit small communities together: hard work, humility, and helping others. For a region not often in the national spotlight, his rise provides a beacon of possibility.

Gooding Mayor Brian Hendrickson spoke at the fundraiser, presenting Loveland with a certificate of appreciation and declaring June 21st “Colston Loveland Day” in the city. The announcement was met with a standing ovation and chants of “Go Blue!” from the crowd.

“Colston has shown that you don’t need to come from a big city to have a big impact,” Hendrickson said. “He’s a testament to what’s possible when talent meets character.”

Looking ahead, Loveland remains focused on the upcoming college football season, where expectations for the Wolverines are sky-high following last year’s playoff run. He’s been training in Ann Arbor with teammates but made it a point to carve out this time for his hometown.

“I love Michigan, and I’m excited for what’s coming this fall,” Loveland said. “But Gooding will always be home. I’ll never be too busy to give back.”

After the camp concluded and the fundraiser wound down, Loveland lingered to take pictures, sign more autographs, and talk with fans one-on-one. Even as the sun set and many headed home, he stayed until every last request was fulfilled.

As one camper’s parent summed it up, “This isn’t just about football. It’s about heart. And Colston Loveland’s heart is right here in Gooding.”

For Loveland, this weekend wasn’t about publicity or fanfare—it was about saying thank you. And for the town that raised him, it was a weekend they’ll never forget.