Butte, Montana – The small mining city of Butte has embraced its hometown hero, Tommy Mellott, the talented quarterback for the Montana State Bobcats. Recently honored with the prestigious Walter Payton Award during the FCS National Awards, Mellott’s rise to prominence has inspired many, especially one young fan whose admiration has turned her life upside down.
The celebration of Mellott’s achievements echoed through the streets of Butte, where he first honed his skills on the field. The Deputy Commissioner of the Big Sky Conference, Dan Satter, praised Mellott’s humility and team spirit, sharing on social media the heartfelt moment when Mellott received the award. "Ever wondered if a star athlete actually means it when he says it’s really a team award? Watch this and you’ll understand," Satter tweeted, emphasizing Mellott's sense of camaraderie with his team.
Among those cheering him on is 13-year-old Travee Carpenter, who first met Mellott when she was just eight years old. Her mother, Holly Carpenter, recalls the day vividly. While preparing signs for the homecoming football game, they were confronted by Mellott and his friends tossing a ball around. Travee, eager to maintain order, boldly stepped up to them. "What do you think you’re doing?" she said with her hands on her hips. When Mellott kindly invited her to the game, it sparked what would become years of admiration and friendship.
That night turned out to be special for Tommy Mellott. After meeting Travee, his team broke their losing streak and claimed victory, establishing Mellott's perception of her as his 'lucky charm.' Over the years, their bond has deepened, with as many as eight pictures documenting their interactions following home games.
Mellott has not only inspired Travee with his skills on the football field but also with his character, embodying the mantra: "How you do anything is how you do everything." He has imparted wisdom to Travee through their correspondences, reminding her of her limitless potential. "You can accomplish anything you put your mind to; don’t let anyone ever take your sparkle or who you are right now," he wrote to her, words which resonate deeply with her ambitions and growing aspirations.
Mellott’s humility was evident during his award acceptance speech, where he gave honor to God, stating, "Without him, I am nothing..." This grounding reflection has caught the attention and respect of many, endearing him even more to fans young and old. His commitment to the values of discipline and teamwork sends a powerful message within the community, urging young athletes like Travee to dream big.
Travee Carpenter recently shared her thoughts about being called Mellott's lucky charm. "Not really! Sometimes I think if I don’t go to the game, they will lose and it will be all my fault, but really, it’s just chance and skill." Her playful outlook reveals the joy she derives from supporting Mellott, no matter the pressure of her perceived role.
Even as the daylight dims over the Mining City, excitement is building for the upcoming FCS National Championship game, which will take place on Monday evening. The anticipation is palpable as Travee and her family prepare to cheer on the Bobcats from Montana, knowing their lucky charm will be watching closely.
With dreams ignited by Mellott’s achievements, the community of Butte is reminded of the importance of support, dedication, and the impact each person can have on another’s life. Travee and Mellott’s story signifies the intertwining of aspiration and friendship, representing what it means to support your team and cherish the bonds formed through sports.
Tommy Mellott may wear the jersey and the accolades, but it's the young fans like Travee, and the relationships forged here, who bring heart to the game. Their story reflects the spirit of sportsmanship and the unity felt long after the scoreboard fades.