Beloit senior balances health and high school

Beloit senior Brody Litton has built a college football future while managing a daily reality that never takes a snap off.

Litton, a 6-foot-6, 250-pound defensive lineman committed to the University of New Mexico, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in January of 2021, midway through his seventh grade year. The diagnosis came shortly after his middle school basketball season ended, following weeks of unexplained weight loss, fatigue and constant thirst.

During that stretch, Litton’s family initially believed the changes were tied to increased conditioning. A doctor’s visit quickly changed that understanding, leading to an immediate hospital admission when his blood sugar levels were found to be dangerously high.

“Initially we were scared of what this would mean for Brody,” his mother, Stephanie Litton, said. “We knew that an added health component could have an adverse effect on his performance or his recruitment.”

From the outset, the family approached the diagnosis as a shared responsibility. Meals were restructured, routines adjusted and education became part of everyday life. Brody Litton returned to competition almost immediately, transitioning into Team 2026 club basketball the weekend after his diagnosis.

“After his initial diagnosis and knowing what daily life would look like for him were all emotional,” Stephanie Litton said. “On the other hand, we knew that this challenge could also make him focus and even be a better athlete knowing that he is going to have to work harder than others who can just show up.”

Litton said the diagnosis did not lead to prolonged internal debate.

“I was surprised with the initial diagnosis,” he said. “I viewed it as... ‘Well it is here now, I can’t get rid of it, might as well deal with it.’”

That mindset has carried through his high school career at Beloit, where he has never missed a practice, game or school day because of diabetes. Managing blood sugar levels is constant, requiring planning around meals, practices and travel.

“Managing it and paying attention to my numbers all the time,” Litton said. “No days off.”

During practices and games, Litton relies on preparation and awareness. He keeps supplies with him, uses sports drinks to manage lows and monitors how his body feels before activity.

“I learned that I need to have my supplies with me at all times when my eating schedule is not consistent,” he said.

Support from family and coaches has been central. His parents monitor his levels remotely, while Beloit coaches ensure his phone stays nearby so readings can be tracked during football activities.

“My parents help monitor my numbers through the app,” Litton said. “They let me know if I am going too low or high in practice or games. Coach Seyfert or an injured player would carry my phone during football practice or games so that I could connect with my dexcom to read my numbers.”

Beloit head coach Brad Gober said Litton’s condition has never limited his availability or reliability.

“He has done an exceptional job managing his condition and always doing things the right way,” Gober said. “ So much so that he was never once pulled from a game due to low blood sugar. Brody is a tremendous example for young men and women with diabetes, showing that athletic goals can still be achieved.”

On the field, Litton’s production matched his consistency. During the 2025 season, he totaled 109 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and seven sacks while helping Beloit to a 6-4 record and a second-round appearance in the Class 2A playoffs. He earned unanimous all-state honors on the offensive line, along with first-team all-league and all-district recognition, after switching positions for his senior year. He was an all-state tight end as a junior.

Litton, whose father Travis – also a former Beloit High standout – played linebacker at K-State, was recruited to New Mexico as an offensive line prospect. His family chose not to disclose his diagnosis during the recruiting process unless asked, preferring to let his performance speak first. He informed the Lobos’ staff during the physical portion of his official visit.

“The team doctor noted that he would not be the first Type 1 athlete and that they would make sure he had all the needed supplies,” Stephanie Litton said.

The program will provide insulin, sensors and medical monitoring, with a trainer able to track his levels remotely.

Litton said his decision to commit was rooted in relationships.

“My primary decision to commit to UNM was due to Coach Booth and Coach Eck,” he said. “The people and the vision for the program felt like the right fit.”

Jason Eck took over as head coach for the New Mexico in December of 2024 and was followed by Cody Booth, his offensive line coach, from the University of Idaho. Litton joins the Lobos as they come off a 9-4 season and the program’s first bowl game appearance since 2016.

Now a senior with a college destination secured, Litton views his condition with responsibility rather than a barrier. When asked what he would tell younger athletes facing a similar diagnosis, his message was direct.

“You can deal with this,” he said. “Don’t let this control your life. Manage your numbers. Life can be worse.”