But when Jamarian “Byrd” Ficklin, Muskogee's star quarterback who was just named Tulsa World All-World Offensive Player of the Year two weeks ago, announced his commitment to Texas State on Thursday afternoon at the Martin Luther King Community Center in Muskogee, his father didn't need another gift.

“It's an incredible feeling and a huge relief,” said Justin. “Now he can concentrate on the school dance again, he knows where his home will be.”

Before he announced where his future home would be, however, his community gathered on July 4 to celebrate him. Before his commitment, family, friends and teammates spent time in the common area of ​​the MLK Center. A board listing the schools in his top five — UNLV, Utah State, North Texas, Texas State and Tulsa — was set up in front of it with star-shaped stickers, and people could place a star on the logo of the school they thought Jamarian would pick (Texas State and North Texas finished tied for the top spot).

However, when it came time to announce his acceptance, the room quickly filled up and many were left without a chair; the event became standing room only.

“I want to thank everyone for coming. I wouldn't be able to do this without all of you,” Jamarian told his supporters.

“The video explains everything else.”

Using Jamarian's iPhone, he played two videos on the room's TV. The first contained photos and videos of his career at Muskogee, with commentary and thanks to God, family, friends, teachers, teammates and more. The second video was what everyone had come for: to find out where he was continuing his football career.

As the TV went black, Jamarian stood up from his chair, took off his black hoodie, and revealed a Texas State shirt as Future's “Like That” played over the video. His congregation cheered for their star quarterback to find his home.

Jamarian credited his commitment to the coaching staff, particularly head coach GJ Kinne and offensive coordinator Matt Leftwich. In Kinne's first season last year, he led the Bobcats, who hadn't had a winning season in nine years, to an 8-5 record and a win in the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. Kinne played quarterback for the University of Tulsa for three seasons before playing in the NFL and CFL. Leftwich joined Kinne's staff and built the Bobcats into a top-15 offensive unit. His offensive philosophy drew Jamarian to Texas State.

“It was really the coaches and the relationships. GJ Kinne as well as Matt Leftwich,” Jamarian said. “They're really smart guys, really good offense, and especially my style of offense — letting the quarterback play, letting him make his own decisions — I really liked that.”

“…I feel like Mike Leftwich can give me everything I need to be successful.”

Jamarian cited Leftwich's time with Cameron Ward (who now plays for the University of Miami) at the University of Incarnate Word, where Leftwich coached for five years before transferring to Texas State, as the reason for his decision. Jamarian sees similarities between his game and Ward's, as both are dual-threat quarterbacks who like to make plays.

But before Jamarian plays offense for Leftwich in San Marcos, Texas, he will finish his final season in Muskogee and hope for a second consecutive 6AII state championship. He will also celebrate the Fourth of July with his father, the birthday boy who turns 37 “for the third time” (he refuses to say 40). Jamarian needed a “big celebration,” not just for his dad, but also because he has found his home.

“This is my home. This is where I want to be. This is where I feel like I need to be,” Jamarian said.