Former Ohio State QB Braxton Miller Opens Sports Academy in Springfield

Miller announced the opening of the Springfield Sports Academy Thursday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with some of the school's future students.

It's no secret Ohio State Buckeyes love giving back to the community when their playing days are done.

And former Buckeyes quarterback Braxton Miller is no different. On Thursday, Miller unveiled the Springfield Sports Academy, a school focused on developing students academically and athletically.

"It's always been a dream and passion of mine to come home and help the youth," Miller said. "It's my hope and expectation that every student succeeds and excels at Springfield Sports Academy."

Miller and his company, "Charg1ng" have held several football and basketball camps for local kids in Urbana and Springfield. The Wayne High School graduate said is proud of where he grew up, and wants to give kids the opportunity to succeed in sports as he did.

"I love this city," Braxton said. "This is where I grew up, and I want to do my part to help make it better."

"Braxton was blessed to experience the right type of youth sports programs, but he also understands that his childhood experience is not readily available for all children," Charg1ng's website says. "Therefore, in 2016, Braxton created Charg1ng Sports to provide the type of youth sports experience he wished more kids had when he was growing up."

Miller played for the Buckeyes through the 2015 season, amassing his fair share of accomplishments during that time. A two-time Big Ten offensive player of the year, Miller finished fifth in the 2012 Heisman Trophy race.

A shoulder injury in 2014 prompted Miller to make a change from quarterback to receiver for his final college season. After 13 games as a wide-out, the Houston Texans chose Miller with the 85th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Miller spent two seasons with the Texans in 2016 and 2017, hauling in 34 receptions, 261 yards and two touchdowns in 21 games.