High School Sports View May/Jun '16

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FEATURES star athlete yes but also much more

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Late to the (Pool) Party

A Late Start Doesn’t Delay Success for Fergus Falls Swimmer Luke Raitz

BY Norm Newell

BY Norm Newell

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26

A Conversation with craig Keaton Lausch

Battle Lake’s Malik Gill

BY Craig olson

BY Tomi Thompson

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Driving for the record books DL’s Kate Smith is in Search of a Five-Peat

making the right choices: battle lakes’ malik gill Photography by: thru him photography

BY Jackie jenson

Cover

www.highschoolsportsview.com Volume 3 No. 5

s c h o l a r at h l e t e s

Hillcrest’s Chris Tungseth

Making the right choices

MAY / JUNE 2016

40

then & Now Dave Cresap

BY craig olson

46

Craig’s “A” List BY craig olson

05 05 23 23 25 25 31 31 37 37 39 39 45 45 47 47

PELICAN RAPIDS: alex diaz UNDERWOOD: brady jensen wadena-deer creek: Wyatt fitzsimmons battle lake: tanner kortlever alexandria: mari wosepka ashby: mason jensen perham: Aaron Wilschewski detroit lakes: Jake Richter frazee: Desiree bauer Rothsay: sarah peterson breckenridge: carson yaggie fergus falls: gryphon lillis West Central Area: Cally Haraldson Brandon-Evansville: Elizabeth Vinson barnesville: Jack Lien Hillcrest: Megan Aasness

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Scholar Athlete > PELICAN RAPIDS

VIKINGS

Alex Diaz Football - wrestling Nickname: Beef Favorite School Subject: Econ and Science Grade Point Average: 3.54 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society

I Root For: Minnesota Vikings In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Graduated from college with a job and family.

Scholar Athlete > UNDERWOOD

ROCKETS

Brady Jensen football - lacrosse Favorite School Subject: Economics Grade Point Average: 4.2 I Root For: Vikings, Maryland and University of Minnesota Groups and Organizations: Interact, Knowledge Bowl, National Honor Society and Band

Pets: Diego and Paco Notable Academic Acomplishment: A Honor Roll In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Practicing law and running resorts.

Chris Tungseth

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ou’ve seen the headlines.

“Hillcrest Lutheran Academy senior Chris Tungseth makes great catches and scores three TD’s to lead the football Comets in comeback victory” or “Tungseth scores 40 points against perennial power Battle Lake to lead undefeated Comet basketball team.”

So you’re thinking he must be a star athlete.

And you’re right, he is. A 3-sport starter for Hillcrest in football, basketball and baseball for the last three seasons, he has plenty of awards and honors to prove his status as one of the area’s best high school athletes.

But there is much more to Chris Tungseth than you see in the sports headlines, and as the famous radio broadcaster Paul Harvey might have said, “Stay tuned for the rest of the story.”

8 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

by Norm Newell • Photography by Justin Eiler

First the sports statistics, because sports magazine readers always want some stats, right?

Run, catch, block, tackle, punt; Tungseth demonstrated he can do it all on the field.

Start with football, where Tungseth was a three-year starter, primarily at fullback on offense and linebacker on defense. The Hillcrest football team went from a 1-7 record Tungseth’s sophomore year to 5-4 the next year, then to a state-ranked 9-2 this year. As a captain, Tungseth led the team both offensively and defensively. He rushed 45 times for 287 yards and 5 TD’s, caught 34 passes for 461 yards and 10 TD’s, and was one of the leading blockers on the team. On defense he had 63 solo tackles at linebacker, and assisted on 39 other tackles. For those efforts he was selected to the 9-Man All-State Defensive Team. He was also the punter for the team, averaging 34 yards per punt. Tungseth was AllConference in 2014, for the 2015 season, in addition to his All-State selection, he was selected as Most Valuable Offensive Player for the sub-district.

Chris’ next sport up was basketball.

Again, he was a three-year starter.

His sophomore year the team had an 18-9 W-L record and he was second on the team in every statistical category, i.e. scoring, 3-point shooting, rebounding, assists and steals.

His junior year he helped the team achieve a 23-5 record. He was second on the team to star player Jake Isaac in points and rebounds, but was first in 3-pointers, assists and steals. He earned All-Conference honors that year. This past season, his senior year, Tungseth led the team to a 26-1 record, where their only loss was in the section semi-final, due in large part to Chris being in foul trouble much of the game.

He led the team in every major statistical category, first in scoring with 21.5 points per game, and also first in rebounding, assists, steals, and 3-point scoring. He made 108 threepointers on the season, shooting 42

percent from behind the arc.

He scored 29 points or more in 9 games this year, including 44 in one game, a single game record at Hillcrest.

He surpassed the career 1,000 point scoring mark. He was rightfully chosen the Most Valuable Player in the Little Eight Conference.

He was also named to the Fargo Forum area prep basketball All-Star team.

In the spring, Chris turns his attention to baseball. He primarily pitches and plays third base when not pitching. He again started as a sophomore where the team was 6-9, but improved to 9-7 his junior year.

His senior season is just starting at the time of this article. Chris has a two-year batting average of .309 and an ERA as a pitcher of 2.16. He was

Chris Tungseth

by Norm Newell • Photography by Justin Eiler All-Conference Honorable Mention both his sophomore and junior season as was elected a captain this season.

Definitely a star athlete as reflected by the stats, but now for the rest of the story…

Chris attending Hillcrest indirectly started three generations ago, when all four of Tungseth’s grandparents attended Hillcrest, followed by both of Chris’ parents, Mark and Cathy.

Mark played football, basketball and baseball, Cathy played volleyball and was outstanding in music. Chris’ siblings Greta, Danny and Laura all attended Hillcrest and played major roles in their respective sports and activities.

“It’s been a tradition I just had to be a part of,” said Chris. “I attended public school through 7th grade gaining lots of friends from that, and now I have made a great group of friends at Hillcrest…I’m lucky to have such a large support group.”

10 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

Each of Tungseth’s coaches at Hillcrest certainly appreciated his athletic prowess, but all acknowledge, too, the rest of the story -- his growth as a leader, a people person and a wellrounded individual with multiple talents.

Football coach Charlie Brue noted, “Chris was a key component to our team last fall and he led as a captain should. He worked hard, he encouraged and he was an unselfish player who put the team first.

While I couldn’t have been more pleased with the way he played and practiced the game of football, as his uncle, I was even more pleased to see the tremendous growth in Chris’ character as he progressed through four years at Hillcrest.”

Basketball coach Gregg Preston acknowledged, “Chris was truly a unique player in the sense that he developed and encouraged great friendships not only with his own team but with the players that he competed against during the season.

As a captain, he helped to create a team atmosphere that was open, positive, and focused not only on basketball excellence, but also ensured he and his teammates took the time and effort to serve Christ and others around them. A great deal of laughter, light-heartedness, and exuberance surrounded the team because of his presence.” Preston

also noted with pride that Tungseth was voted the winner of the Christian Testimony Award for Hillcrest this year.

Steve Undseth, Tungseth’s baseball coach says, “Chris is a great teammate, he is constantly encouraging in the dugout and will be a positive influence as a senior leader this year.”

There’s still more to learn about Chris.

Heidi Jahr, Hillcrest’s music director describes another side of Chris not seen on the athletic field -- an excellent musical talent. Jahr notes.

“Chris has been in the chamber and jazz choirs the last two years and stands out as a leader in our tenor section. He has a gift for singing with a confident and clear vocal quality both as a soloist and in an ensemble.” Chris was a featured soloist in the Christmas program and in Chamber Choir his ensembles received Superior ratings for all three of their performances. Says Jahr, “Chris has led worship many times at Hillcrest and he spends some of his Sunday mornings playing drums and singing with the worship team at his church.” Chris comes by music ability naturally.

His mother, Cathy, studied piano for years, teaches piano lessons, and is involved in church music.

There is one common theme in all of Tungseth’s activities, Chris relates well to everyone around him. He is an encourager, a positive influence, and through his many activities and captain assignments, he has grown into an excellent leader, through actions and encouragements.

His parents echo those thoughts.

“Chris was quite active at a young age, you could see he had natural coordination early on, and he loved being in sports. He certainly still enjoys being active to this day,” notes his dad, who helped out coaching youth football.

What else does he possibly find the time to do? Well, at the time of this writing, Tungseth was set to leave with a mission team of students to the Dominican Republic for a week of working to improve the living conditions of the people there.

Chris has an interest in teaching someday. A thought influenced largely by his Hillcrest coaches.

“I appreciated Coach Preston so much, he has been one of my mentors,” says Tungseth. “Besides being a great coach, he’s an awesome person to talk with about life and sports and he expands the lives of many, like his leading mission trips to areas of need. Basketball was so much fun because all the players were like family to each other and to Coach Preston.”

When he gets back from that trip, he has a day to pack for the Hillcrest choir trip out east for another week, then right into the baseball season.

In his spare time, whenever that is, he lifts weights helping him to grow into a 6’2”, 240 pound well-muscled athlete. Mostly he enjoys the outdoors, playing other sports like golf and tennis with friends, throwing the Frisbee around, and especially, hiking, when the opportunity arises.

He volunteers at the Broen Home assisting senior residents there. On the other end of the age scale, his coaches say he will always stop and talk to younger kids at Hillcrest and in the youth athletics programs to encourage them. The spectrum of people Chris Tungseth affects is wide and quite diverse.

“Where I am today is because of a lot of positive influences in my life,” says Chris. “My parents and siblings set a high family standard of faith and involvement and it has made my life enjoyable to be involved in as much as I can. I simply like to be active, and I love playing sports with my teammates.”

Says Tungseth, “Playing for my uncle in football was fun throughout the years. He could be tough when he had to be, but always made it an enjoyable experience for me and the team. I’ve always enjoyed the physicality of football, since my youth days.”

“Baseball might have been my favorite sport when I was younger, but I’ve grown to so thoroughly enjoy all sports that I couldn’t pick a favorite now,” says Tungseth. “Whatever season I’m in is the most important at the time.

His parents have proudly followed the activities throughout Chris’ years at Hillcrest and they’ve enjoyed the coaches, parent and player contacts. “Our greatest joy however has been the growth we’ve seen in Chris with his life, faith and leadership skills. We are very proud of him. Hillcrest and its teachers and coaches have been such a positive influence in his life.”

So there is the rest of the story.

A positive influence, helps youth, helps the elderly, helps those in need, has grown into a leader of others, leads chapel, plays in the church music group, great singer, enjoys music, likes to hike, likes to hang out with friends, good student, appreciates his mentors…the list goes on.

Oh, and by the way, he’s a very good athlete. You will want him on your team.

MAY / JUNE 2016 SPORTS VIEW 11

malik gill

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t first glance, Malik Gill is your average high school athlete that loves sports. When asked about it, his answer is relatively simple.

“Sports are kind of my life.”

Get to know Gill a little more, and he proves to be a true competitor.

Playing football, basketball, and running track in high school, he’s a well-rounded athlete.

Only in his second season of high school track, Gill is a strong performer in the 100 meter dash, and has some high goals for his final sport in his final season.

“My goal this year is to break the state record, or tie it, so we’ll see how that goes.”

Take an even deeper look at Gill’s life, and it’s not your average back story.

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by Tomi Thompson • Photography by Thru Him Photography

“Who would ever expect that I went through all of that just by meeting me face to face? If you met me face to face, you wouldn’t even know that until I told you.”

The sociable and charismatic senior at Battle Lake High School didn’t grow up in the most typical environment and has overcome some obstacles. Gill has grown into an example of how hard work, passion, and some help along the way can transform tough situations into positive outcomes and create positive individuals.

Gill’s story starts in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he was born and lived the first part of his life.

“I actually made bad choices when I was a little kid living in Milwaukee, and I never was really into sports,” Gill said.

Sports came into Gill’s life after he lost a cousin in 2006. Gill said at the time, he was more into hanging out and playing video games, but sports became the link to memories of his cousin.

“I didn’t know how to cope with that right away, I had a hard time in life struggling with that, and so I started playing sports to kind of feel like a connection,” Gill said.

The first sport that Gill took to was basketball.

“That’s literally the only reason why basketball is my favorite sport is because I enjoy the game now, but I also felt like I get that connection with my cousin.”

Eventually, Gill’s family made the decision to leave Milwaukee and move to Minnesota.

“The city life and this life is different. It was just rough times in the city, and it really wasn’t safe for me to grow up there.”

Coming to Minnesota came with different opportunities and challenges. Gill explained that in the city, there wasn’t an opportunity to play multiple sports, and in Minnesota he had an opportunity to play different sports in different seasons.

Gill bounced around between Detroit Lakes and Frazee when he first moved, and said it was tough being the new guy in sports making transitions between teams and programs.

“It can be really hard to deal with, but after a while you become accustomed to it,” Gill said.

In September, 2014, Gill moved again to live with a family in Battle Lake. When Gill made his transition to Battle Lake, he met Theresa and Ross Ukkelberg.

“It’s an outlet, it’s just another zone, it’s just another world that I can go to. When it’s practice and when it’s game days it’s just like a whole other world. I don’t have to worry about the stuff that’s going on in life.”

Malik Gill

“We came to understand the foster situation he was in did not offer a permanency option and that was something he talked about,” Theresa Ukkelberg said, “He wanted to be able to graduate from Battle Lake High School and go to college and really did not want to have to move again.”

The Ukkelbergs have four sons of their own, the youngest, Tony, a standout Battle Lake athlete was the same age as Malik and the only one left at home.

“Raising boys, it’s what we know, we’ve had lots of practice,” Ukkelberg said, “We talked as a family about offering to become Malik’s permanency option so he could have a chance at stability.”

After lots of prayers and family discussions, on December 31st, 2014, Gill became a part of the Ukkelberg family.

“Theresa was already in the process of getting her foster care license, and I had no clue. Just randomly came over one day and Theresa asked if I would like to be a part of her family,” Gill said.

Gill believes that the timing and opportunity to become a part of the Ukkelberg family was a progressive step towards a stable life.

“I feel like it couldn’t have come at a better time because I literally have never really had stability in my life.

I feel like it was just a blessing, it was just out of the blue and they

were able to give me that stability that I never had, and they’re there for me all the time, even when times get tough. I’m really grateful and blessed.”

element of his personality to every sport.

Now finishing his senior year at Battle Lake, the three-sport athlete says sports have been a motivator to stay out of trouble and keep going, as well as bringing him to another world.

“I like lighting people up, and being very physical. I really like to deliver the hit and the football mentality. If you make a good play I’ll congratulate you, and it’s just going to motivate me to come harder next time.”

“It’s an outlet, it’s just another zone, it’s just another world that I can go to. When it’s practice and when it’s game days it’s just like a whole other world. I don’t have to worry about the stuff that’s going on in life,” Gill said.

Football is Gill’s favorite sport to physically unleash.

Basketball brings out Gill’s competiveness.

“Basketball I have my game face, I’m really competitive, I work hard, floor dives and stuff like that.”

Gill says overall, he is really competitive, but he brings a different MAY / JUNE 2016 SPORTS VIEW 15

malik gill Currently in Track season, Gill is running a strong 100. Last season his fastest time was an 11.02, and this year, he hopes to beat the state record of 10.81. Gill says he likes to win, but he thinks track is a social sport and is able to crack jokes at meets and keep a light mood.

Gill also believes that sports are something he will be able to appreciate his whole lifetime. “It’s something that’s always there and a skill that I’ll always have. It’s something that I can always feel a connection with.”

Gill describes his personality overall as determined.

“I feel like a lot of things in my life have made me stronger and stronger, after going through so much it feels like you can tolerate more and more.”

Besides his athletic talent, Gill says the most unique thing about him is his ability to talk to anyone and it is always his goal to brighten someone’s day.

“I hang out with a lot of different groups; I’d say that’s probably the most unique thing about me. I’m not afraid to do anything, so at track meets; I just go up and start talking to random people. I enjoy conversation and just getting to know people” Gill says he values his ability to reach out and give support to his friends. “I feel like I’m a really big support system for some people, and I’m always there, I’m a really great friend I believe.”

Both Theresa Ukkleberg and Gill speak highly of the benefits that living in Battle Lake has brought to Gill’s life.

“I love Battle Lake, the atmosphere is good, the teachers are amazing, it’s just easier to connect with people. It’s a really good support system throughout all sports and not just sports, but everything we do in our community,” Gill says.

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by Tomi Thompson • Photography by Thru Him Photography

Theresa says the community has given Gill the tools to grow and the necessary support.

“I think Malik now believes he is capable of college and of being a contributing member of society.

He’s also had some really great mentors and coaches in the staff at Battle Lake.”

“My mom, Theresa, she’s just so nice and kind and giving; she always puts everything in for everyone – it’s hard to be someone like her,” Gill said, “She’s always there for you when you need it, she’s always a helping hand.”

“It’s been good to me, it’s Minnesota nice, so why not?” Gill laughingly says.

Gill said Frazee High School Principal Rob Nudell was another one of his biggest inspirations. Nudell met Gill when he attended Frazee Schools in 2010-11. Nudell describes Gill as having a great smile with lots of charm and fitting in quickly with the students. Nudell had the opportunity to coach Gill in 7th and 8th grade basketball and watch his talents develop. Gill and Nudell’s son Parker had a close friendship, through that Nudell learned about Maliks personal story, and got a feel for how far Gill has come in life, all with a courteous and positive attitude.

Before Gill could set out to live the life he’s living and achieve his dreams, he is thankful for the people that got him there, which of course, includes Theresa Ukkelberg.

“After spending time with Malik, I learned that he had overcome some very difficult things in his past that were out of his control. His resilience and willingness to do things

After high school, Gill plans include going to M State in Fergus Falls and playing football and basketball there. Once he has completed two years in Fergus Falls, his plans include going to Minnesota State University Moorhead and pursuing a degree in Elementary Education.

Beyond college, Gill can see himself staying in Minnesota.

better is commendable,” Nudell said.

Gill says he also finds inspiration in a true underdog story.

“I like hearing people’s stories and stuff and I like the people who have had it really rough and then they made something out of nothing, those are the people who inspire me, the people that can constantly go, even when the odds are stacked against them.”

Ukkelberg knows that Gill’s story is similar to the stories that Gill finds inspiration in.

“Malik understands others made decisions that have greatly impacted his life and talks often about wanting to make better choices and have a better future. People want to see him succeed, especially when they understand where he has come from and how far he’s had to go.”

MAY / JUNE 2016 SPORTS VIEW 17

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LUKE RAITZ

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top thrill of my life for sure,” says Luke Raitz, a few weeks after finishing second in the 50yard freestyle finals at the MSHSL Swimming and Diving meet, and achieving All-State recognition along the way. “But equally exciting as I looked back was the thrill of being with your teammates and friends, having the skill building and encouragement of your coaches, and as much the realization that all you’ve worked for over the last five years came to a culmination that I never thought could happen when I first started swimming.”

A very mature answer for the newlyminted school record holder.

Raitz continued, “Being part of a team, you grow very close to your teammates over the years of practice. Finishing well in relay races with your buddies also was very exciting.” Luke anchored the 200yard freestyle relay team that finished fifth in the state, the 400-yard freestyle relay that also finished fifth, and the 200-yard medley relay team. He was a busy young man at this year’s tournament.

Luke set a new school record of 21.11 seconds in his state 50-yard freestyle race and simply says, “It’s exciting, but also very humbling, to see your name on the records board along with all the great Fergus Falls swimmers that have gone before.”

Swimming for his relay teammates in the 200-yard medley relay, he swam the fastest 50 yards at the state meet, a 20.66 second split. The state 400-yard freestyle relay team he anchored alongside teammates Dalton Mouritsen, Justin Mortenson and Daniel Kowalski, also set a new school record of 3:15:02, placing them fifth at the state meet.

Raitz didn’t start competitive swimming until the 8th grade, a relatively late start for a swimmer. But with his natural athletic ability, he made great strides early under the tutelage of legendary Fergus Falls Otter swim coach, Tom Uvaas. Raitz gives significant credit to “Coach U” for

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by Norm Newell • Photography by Janssen Photography

teaching him the technique, and pushing and encouraging him to be the best he could be every day. “No way would I have gotten to that level without Coach U and all his technical knowledge and encouragement,” says Raitz. “He’s a great role model, teaches you life lessons as well as swimming, and continually talks about how your hard work will pay off in swimming, but also later in life.”

Determination comes natural for Luke and he embraced the hard work. Like weightlifting in the fall and during the swim season with strength coach Paul Ratz, and following his lifting and nutrition regimens. Swimming practices are three times a week in the mornings from 6:15 to 7:30 a.m., and after school every day of the week from 3:30 to 6 p.m. That’s a lot of time in the pool, but it indeed paid off. Luke made the varsity squad his 9th grade year, and qualified for the state tourney as a member of the 400-yard freestyle relay. His sophomore year, Raitz made state in the 200 and 400-yard freestyle relays, garnering a fourth place finish in the 400 relay. The team took third at state that year, another one of Luke’s thrilling moments. Junior year, state again, in the 200 medley relay, and the 200 and 400 free relays.

So I asked Luke, “How many state medals do you have?” His response?

“I don’t know the exact count, but I’ve got some hanging in my room.”

Evidence of a great number of state appearances for a young man relatively new to the sport.

Coach U and the Otters have always been known for their tapering process, where you build up strength and endurance with extra hard practices four weeks before the section meet, then taper down to a week before sections where you have lighter, shorter practices focused on technique and muscle recovery.

That process has given Coach U’s teams and individual swimmers frequent personal best times at tournament time and consistent trips to the state tournament.

That process worked to perfection for Luke. He swam his best time ever in the 50 free in the state final race.

When Coach Uvaas talks about Luke he starts by saying, “One of the nicest young men I’ve had the pleasure to coach over my 40 years.”

High praise from a coach who has coached a lot of swimmers over the years. Uvaas says, “He probably wouldn’t mention to you that he was All-State in three events at the

tournament and received nominations from other coaches for State Male Swimmer of the Year.

Coach Uvaas was right, Luke was too humble to mention that.

Uvaas continues, “Or that at our team awards banquet he received the Olson Award for Most Valuable Swimmer and the Del Norris Spirit and Integrity Award.”

Yup. Luke didn’t mention those achievements either.

“Luke had an exceptional performance for our team at state,” says Uvaas, “Especially for being relatively young in the sport. He has been accepted at the University of Minnesota where I hope his swimming journey will continue, but regardless, I know his character will provide him with many opportunities for success in the future.”

Basketball was Luke’s primary winter sport in his youth, participating in the Backcourt Club basketball program from 1st grade through 7th grade. But as he started his growth spurt to his current-day 6’8” frame, he had some knee and joint pain that took some of the enjoyment of basketball away. His mother, Deanne encouraged him to give

“It’s exciting, but also very humbling, to see your name on the records board along with all the great Fergus Falls swimmers that have gone before.”

Luke Raitz on his school record setting swim at the state meet swimming a try. Luke had always enjoyed swimming at his Grandma Carol’s (on Green Lake near Spicer, Minn.) as well as his swimming lessons with Inga Nelson at the YMCA. Luke’s mom, Deanne says, “I remember Inga telling me when Luke was around 5 years old that he was a natural and could be a good swimmer someday, so I encouraged him to give it a try.

It was my hope that competing in the water would be less stress on his knees. We’re all glad it turned out so well.”

Deanne and Luke’s dad, Chad, both say that Luke was always a determined child, always self-motivated and always willing to try different things and do extra work to be better. “He would see a goal and set his mind to accomplish it,” they say. Deanne notes, “When he was a Cub Scout and witnessed the crossing over ceremony to Boy Scouts. As a 1st grader he said to us that he wanted to “walk over that bridge” which he did in 5th grade, beginning his journey as a Boy Scout.” From there, Luke then set the goal to become an Eagle Scout, the highest rank and most difficult level to achieve in scouting. He accomplished that last year with the completion of his final project which included fundraising for and building an enclosed bike shelter at Lake Region Hospital.

Raitz is also an accomplished baseball pitcher. Like many players he started in the T-ball leagues when he first started grade school and

played every summer. About five years ago, he settled in as a pitcher which also turned out well. At 6’8” he had grown into a well-muscled player with a long and powerful arm that can bring the heater (i.e. good fast ball). His junior year he developed back problems which shortened his season, but he had a procedure to deal with nerve issues in his lower back and did all the long and arduous rehabilitation necessary to come back for swimming and baseball his senior year.

Once again demonstrating his drive and determination. Baseball coach Mark Aho says, “Luke is a role model for his teammates, classmates, younger individuals, and also for us adults. He has handled his adversity with patience and professionalism and with diligence he has gotten himself back to being a top pitcher for us, earning the first start of the year this spring.”

As his parents have noted, Luke is always willing to try different things. In school he played in the band until his junior year and has been in the choir throughout high school. He is a National Honor Society member with a 3.56 GPA. This year he is serving in the senior mentoring program, going to Morning Son to help his former first grade teacher Diane Selvig with her class. He enjoys it. Deanne says, “Mrs. Selvig says the kids just love him and call him Mr. Luke. When he got the colored hair for the state swim meet

LUKE RAITZ

by Norm Newell • Photography by Janssen Photography

“I remember Inga [Nelson] telling me when Luke was around 5 years old that he was a natural and could be a good swimmer someday, so I encouraged him to give it a try. It was my hope that competing in the water would be less stress on his knees. We’re all glad it turned out so well.”

Mom, Deanne on Luke’s mid-youth change in sports (a Fergus Falls tradition) he had to go around to all the classes at Morning Son so they could see it. The kids in Mrs. Selvig’s class in turn made a booklet of individual pictures and notes for Luke wishing him well at the state meet. It was a lot of fun for Luke, and also for Chad and I.”

Outside of school, Luke is an avid hunter, a natural since father Chad works for the Fish and Wildlife Service and has been an outdoorsman all his life. “Luke enjoys fishing and duck hunting, but also deer and turkey hunting where he uses bow and arrow. He’s gotten two deer bow hunting and that’s an accomplishment in itself,” Chad notes.

Luke has also worked at the Pebble Lake Golf Course in the pro shop and does filming of sporting events for Park Region Channel 1.

Chad and Deanne Raitz are understandably quite proud of what Luke has accomplished in sports and were beaming at the state tournament, but they both say, “We are most proud of who he has become and how well he treats other people. He’s a friend to everyone and treats all people with genuine kindness.” That exact testament comes through from coaches, teachers and other adults that have met and commented about Luke Raitz being “a super young man”.

years in high school have been such a great experience I wouldn’t trade for anything,” says Luke, “But I will now move on into the next phase of life. I will talk more with the coach at the U of M and see where that leads.” He’s thinking the field of business, economics or possibly something with natural resources for a vocation. He also plans to room at the U with swim teammate and friend Dalton Mouritsen and together they talk about maybe trying out the water polo team there.

Luke plans to attend the University of Minnesota where the swim coach requested that he fill out the recruitment form. “My swimming

Whatever he chooses and wherever he goes, success is sure to follow.

Scholar Athlete > wadena-deer creek

wolverines

Wyatt Fitzsimmons football - basketball - baseball Nickname: Fitz or Fitzy Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 3.95 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society, Peer Mentor

Notable Academic Accomplishment: Spotlight on Scholarship I Root For: Twins, Vikes and Wild Pets: One Salamander, Spike and One Gold Fish, Big Papi In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Working in the cities with an engineering company.

Scholar Athlete > battle lake

battlers

Tanner Kortlever basketball Nickname: Tan-man and Kanner Favorite School Subject: Science Grade Point Average: 3.89 Groups and Organizations: Interact, SOS, Peer Advocates

Notable Academic Acomplishment: A Honor Roll Pets: Mini Dachshund, Duke In Ten Years...I’ll Be: In rural Minnesota owning a landscape business.

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24 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

Scholar Athlete > ALEXANDRIA

CARDINALS

Mari Wosepka Hockey Grade Point Average: 3.73 Favorite School Subjects: English Notable Academic Accomplishment: National Honors Society, Nominated for Triple A Award

I Root For: Minnesota Gophers!

Your Role Model: My Mom, My Sister and My Friends In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Hopefully working in a journalism or digital broadcasting job while keeping active and healthy.

Scholar Athlete > ASHBY

ARROWS

Mason Jensen basketball - golf Nickname: Mas Favorite School Subject: Math and Science Grade Point Average: 3.83765 Pets: Clifford, Bailey and Lucy (All Dogs)

Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society I Root For: Miami Heat In Ten Years...I’ll Be: With my family, in a house hopefully.

A CONVERSATION Keaton Lausch Fergus Falls > GOLF Keaton Lausch, a 2014 Fergus Falls High School graduate, was a four-year letter winner and captain for the Otters under head coach Ben Jurgens. Lausch won the Central Lakes Conference tournament with a 74 his senior season and was second with a 73 his sophomore year. As a walk-on freshman at NDSU, he competed in six events during the 2014-15 season, with an 18-hole scoring average of 78.11 in 18 rounds.

Keaton was named to the Summit League Winter/ Spring Academic Honor Roll. He is planning to major in biology.

by Craig Olson Craig follows area sports throughout the year at www.craigolsonsports.com

Photo by Dennis Hubbard CRAIG OLSON: What are your first memories of learning how to golf?

Keaton Lausch: Going to the range with my dad when I was very young and just trying to swing the club.

CO: Once you committed to becoming a competitive golfer, how did you work on improving your game?

26 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

KL: I mainly just played a ton.

But, I also put in countless hours hitting balls, working around the putting green, and doing on course practice drills.

CO: What were a couple of the highlights of your junior golf tournament experience?

KL: I had way too many memorable moments to just list one so probably just traveling all over playing golf with

friends, meeting new people, and having the time of my life.

CO: What about your high school years? What are a couple of your top memories from those teams/seasons?

KL: I will never forget traveling to my first varsity meet as an 8th grader, sitting next to my older brother. My most fond memory is walking off the 18th green my senior year

a conversation with craig at sections into hugs from my teammates after making it to the state tournament.

CO: When did you decide college golf would be something you would like to pursue and was there anyone who influenced you to give it a shot?

KL: I knew at a young age that I wanted to pursue college golf. My family and friends pushed me the most and I’m glad they did.

CO: Tell us about the process that landed you at NDSU as a walk-on.

golfer at the tournaments that we play in is a very solid player. It’s not uncommon to see some very low scores in your group. It is definitely an adjustment playing with the best.

CO: You have played a lot of great courses over the years. Rank the top five, in terms of your favorites, with a brief reason why each one of them is on this list.

CO: Where has your game improved the most in your first two years as a collegiate golfer?

KL: Chambers Bay: It is one of the hardest courses in the nation and also a U.S. Open venue. TPC Sawgrass: It’s the home of the Player’s Championship. Whistling Straights: A unique course for the area with amazing views and also a major championship venue. TPC Four Seasons: It was a challenging course where the ATT Byron Nelson tournament is held. Troon North: An awesome Arizona course in wonderful condition.

KL: Probably my course management. By that I mean the way that I play around the golf course. With the difficulty of the courses, I have to be very smart and strategic when I play.

KL: I wasn’t sure where I wanted to go for school and if I even wanted to play golf. I finally decided that I was going to give golf a try and contacted coach Kennedy of NDSU. He agreed to meet with me and talked to me about a possible walk-on position that I could qualify for. I came to school and had to play against three other guys for one spot. I ended up making the team and that has led me to where I am now.

CO: What have your top tournament moments been as a member of the Bison golf team?

CO: What were the toughest adjustments you had to make from high school golf to college golf?

KL: My scoring has not been where I would like it to be this year but that’s why I am constantly working. I wasn’t gaining a spot on the team early in the season which led me to work harder until now I do have a constant spot.

KL: Definitely the competition and difficulty of the golf course. Every

28 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

Keaton Lausch

KL: My top moment has been the tournament at Whistling Straights where I finished T-8.

CO: How consistent has your scoring been this year and how competitive is it as far as maintaining a spot on the number one team?

CO: What three courses, anywhere in the world, that you haven’t had the opportunity to play, would you like to play?

KL: Augusta National, Cypress Point, and St. Andrews.

CO: What are your individual and team goals for your college career?

KL: My individual goal is to win a tournament and then see where I can take my game from there. My team goal is to make it to the national tournament.

CO: Earning a PGA card at qualifying school is a tremendous challenge. Is this something that is on your radar?

KL: It is definitely a dream of mine to play professional golf but I know how hard it is. If the opportunity arises to give it a try, it would definitely be something I would like to do.

CO: What would be your ultimate foursome to be a part of? You and what three people?

KL: Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth and Jason Day. CO: Do you have a swing coach you work with or is there someone who really helps you when it comes time to tune up an area of your game?

KL: I drive to Alexandria, Minn. and work with swing coach Scott Dirck.

CO: Have you ever had a hole-inone? If so, please share the details, including witnesses.

KL: Yes. I have had 2. On holes 8 and 2 at Pebble Lake Golf Club.

CO: What kind of clubs do you use right now and do you change your clubs, especially your putter, regularly?

KL: I have a Titleist 915D3 driver, Titleist 913F 4 wood, Titleist 716 TI 2 iron, Titleist 914CB irons, Titleist Vokey SM5 54,58 and 62 degree wedges, and a Titleist Scotty Cameron Futura X5 dual balance putter. I don’t change clubs often. I like to stick with what I have.

CO: Obviously, golf is only part of the reason you are at NDSU. As for your studies, what are you majoring in and how do you like the school?

KL: I am majoring in Biology wanting to go on to Optometry school and become an eye doctor. I like school a lot.

CO: During the golf season(s) how do you balance your studies with your tournament commitments?

KL: It is very difficult but a lot of late nights and study time during the day. Sacrificing hanging with friends is a weekly thing.

CO: What pro golfers do you root for on the tour?

KL: My main three are Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fowler, and Jason Day. But, of course Tiger Woods when he plays.

CO: What type of things do you enjoy doing when you are away from the school and golfing scene?

KL: Racquetball, hunting, fishing, and going to the lake with friends.

CO: Fargo has some really good places to eat. What are your top three spots for food?

KL: HuHot, Buffalo Wild Wings, and the TNT Diner.

CO: How closely did you follow the Bison football team over your first two years at NDSU? KL: Not very closely. I like the NFL more than college.

Photo by Dennis Hubbard CO: What kind of advice would you give to a young golfer hoping to compete at the level you are at?

KL: Work hard, and never stop playing and practicing. There is no such thing as playing too many golf holes.

CO: In your opinion what has made you into a successful, competitive collegiate golfer?

KL: When I was younger I was at the golf course from sunrise to sunset. I always wanted to play and I always wanted to get better and I still have that drive.

CO: Are there any specific people who have really mentored you or motivated you on your journey?

KL: My friends, and most importantly my high school golf coach, Ben Jurgens.

CO: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

KL: Living somewhere south, working as an eye doctor and playing competitive golf in my spare time.

MAY / JUNE 2016 SPORTS VIEW 29

30 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

Scholar Athlete > PERHAM

YELLOWJACKETS

Aaron Wilschewski football - track Nickname: A Dub and Chesk Favorite School Subject: World History and Gym Grade Point Average: 3.20 I Root For: NDSU and Vikings

Pets: Cat, Her Name is Kitty.

Groups and Organizations: Choir, Youth Group, Youth Group President In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Electrical lineman at Otter Tail Power.

Scholar Athlete > DETROIT LAKES

LAKERS

Jake Richter football - basketball - track Nickname: Richter Grade Point Average: 3.60 Favorite School Subjects: History Notable Academic Accomplishment: Academic All-Team Football and Basketball

Groups and Organizations: Link Crew Pets: Two Dogs; Maximus and Piper I Root For: Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Timberwolves and Michigan Wolverines In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Being happy.

Kate Smith

W

hen you think of golf, you think names such as Jordan Spieth, Rory Mcllroy, Lydia Ko and Lexi Thompson. Better get ready to add another name to that list: Kate Smith. On the Detroit Lakes Varsity Girls Golf team since she was in seventh grade, Kate Smith has been a top flight golfer in Minnesota and across the country for a while now.

Living on a golf course from before she could walk, Smith has been practicing her golf prowess for most of her life. Although this particular chapter of her life has recently come to the end -- her parents sold the Iron Man Golf Course in Detroit Lakes this past summer -- the lessons of the game have stuck with her.

“When we were little, if my brother and I weren’t practicing or playing golf, we were helping teach junior golf clinics at the course,” explains the golfer. “I started on the team when I was 11 years old.” recalls Smith who is a now senior at Detroit Lakes High School With such a long history and solid attachment to the game, Smith has experienced much success through the years in the family sport. Golfing since the age of five, competing since age eight, Smith participates in numerous tournaments each summer. Last year, she played over 25 tournament days.

By Jackie Jenson • Photography by Thru Him Photography

Smith attended her first big USGA tournament in California when she was just 12 years old, one of the youngest in the competition.

The lessons gained from that first competition, though, were ones that stuck with her, as it would be with the many tournaments to come.

“I shot some very high scores; it was disappointing because so many people were rooting for me back home, yet it taught me no matter how much success I have, I can always be better,” says the golfer.

Hard work, focus and learning from the players around you, this is the golf philosophy she carries with her even today.

Says Smith, “When I started out, I was six to seven years younger than the girls I was playing with at the number one spot. I knew I couldn’t drive as far as the older high school girls could, so I worked on my short game where I made up most of my shots. I also learned as much as I could from all the great players around me. I adapted.”

“I am on the road all the time playing various tournaments,” adds Smith, “But it’s good to get out of my comfort zone and force myself to play at a higher level.”

“I want to make sure when I step up to the first tee at state that I’ve done everything I can, put in the time, practiced and worked hard in the spring.”

Kate Smith 34 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

One of those players/mentors was her older brother, Karter Smith.

“He was great at putting the work into be a better golfer, and he was always inviting me to play with him and his friends in order to include me,” remembers Smith. “I didn’t want to embarrass him or his friends after being invited, so I’d play my very best and hit from the men’s tees so I wouldn’t hold them up. Little did I know that would help me a lot in the future. It improved my game a great deal.”

Now taller, older and stronger, Smith is the veteran golfer on the team. She is the one with the long drives and amazing shots.

“I am at a different place now. I am the senior, and my game is continuously evolving.”

This year will mark Smith’s sixth appearance at the Minnesota State High School Championship. She took fifth at her first start in 2011 -- she was in seventh grade. In her 2012 state run, she found herself at the top of the leader board at a 4-under, 140. Following up that performance, she would take additional first places in 2013, 2014 and 2015. In two of those wins, top accolades were shared with other golfers: fellow teammate Natalie Roth in 2013 and Pequot Lakes’ Maggie Heggerstron in 2014.

“I have been very fortunate to see a lot of great golfers at the state tournament in my nine years of coaching,” notes Detroit Lakes High School Girls Golf Coach Cali Harrier. “Kate’s first year at the state tournament she was an 11 yearold, seventh grader. She was very knowledgeable and skilled in the game of golf, but she was young, physically and mentally. She would struggle walking up the hills at the Jordan course, and often times,

“When I started out, I was six to seven years younger than the girls I was playing with at the number one spot. I knew I couldn’t drive as far as the older high school girls could, so I worked on my short game where I made up most of my shots. I also learned as much as I could from all the great players around me. I adapted.”

Kate Smith

Kate Smith I would make her smile with a joke during her round,” continues coach Harrier. “As she has matured in golf, she has also matured into a strong, brilliant, young woman.”

“My win in eighth grade was crazy,” recalls Smith. “I was so much younger than the seniors I was competing against. Honestly, winning was never something I thought could happen at the time, especially shooting 140,” she confessed.

According to Smith, last year’s win as a junior was a testament to hard work. She won it at 7-under. If she wins the 2016 title, she will be the first five–time winner, ever. A first for the MSHSL. “I tied the record last year. This year though would mean making history which is a little more pressure.”

Smith notes that winning this year will come down to hard work once again.

“I want to make sure when I step up to the first tee at state that I’ve done everything I can — put in the time, practiced and worked hard in the spring,” says Smith.

36 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

By Jackie Jenson • Photography by Thru Him Photography

“Kate has put many hours into the technical aspects of golf. I often hear ‘she makes it looks so easy’, but the truth is Kate has worked very hard for her success,” adds Harrier.

“I am very proud of her. The past six seasons have been an amazing journey, I’m thrilled to be part of it.”

Golf is game of placement, remarks Smith, and the state course for Class AA at Ridges on Sand Creek located in Jordan, Minnesota is challenging.

Besides a stalwart work ethic, Smith also has an additional secret weapon to aid her at the big meet, her coach.

“Coach Harrier has become more than a coach to me. We’ve spent many long car rides together over the past six years, so we have gotten pretty close,” comments Smith. “She knows me. She figured out, before I did, that I played better when I was distracted. She makes sure I don’t over think things on the course, which can be my downfall at times.”

As a senior, Smith is savoring her last bits of high school before heading to the University of Nebraska next fall.

“Golf is a great game for setting and achieving goals,” remarks Smith. “I am excited to be playing for a Big Ten school. It is a rebuilding year for the school too. I am excited to see what we can achieve while I am there.”

In addition to hitting the links which she says she still really likes, Smith also enjoys art, something she believes uniquely complements the game of golf.

Staying positive and keeping ones focus is how true champions find success on the links. Smith is no exception. Many golfing greats share this sentiment.

“I enjoy art. Golf translates into a type of art too, as you imagine where you want the ball to go. It is a very mental game that you need to create a positive image to compete and win,” concludes Smith.

Ben Hogan said it best.

“The most important shot in golf is the next one.”

Scholar Athlete > FRAZEE

HORNETS

Desiree Bauer softball - Volleyball - dance line Nickname: Ging, Desi, Desawee Favorite School Subject: College Writing Grade Point Average: 3.658 Groups and Organizations: National Honors Society, Student Council, SADD, Band, Captain Leadership Group

Notable Academic Accomplishment: Honor Roll, Dance Adademic Award, Spotlight on Scholarship for All Sports Pets: Two Dogs, Wally and Yogi; Cat, Tigerlily; Three Kitties In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Graduated from college, coaching softball and writing a book.

Scholar Athlete > ROTHSAY

TIGERS

Sarah Peterson Volleyball - basektball - golf Nickname: Tank Favorite School Subject: Anatomy Grade Point Average: 3.7 I Root For: Minnesota Twins Pets: I have a cat named Tim

Groups and Organizations: 4-H, Book Club, National Honors Society, WE Committee In Ten Years...I’ll Be: I see myself working in a hospital as a RN

38 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

Scholar Athlete > BRECKENRIDGE

COWBOYS

Carson Yaggie football - basketball - baseball Nickname: Cars Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 3.72 I Root For: T-Wolves, Vikings, Twins and Clemson Pets: Dog, Coco and Cat, Mittens

Groups and Organizations: Mathletes Notable Academic Accomplishment: A Honor Roll In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Working on the family farm.

Scholar Athlete > FERGUS FALLS

OTTERS

Gryphon Lillis football - weightlifting - Track & Field Nickname: Gryph Favorite School Subject: Band, Math and Sciences Grade Point Average: 3.63 Groups and Organizations: National Honors Society I Root For: NDSU

Pets: Three Dogs; A Boston Terrior Named Sandor, A Golden Lab (Mix) Named Lady and a Poodle Named Gunner.

In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Working as a civil engineer in the Fergus area.

Fergus Falls Roosevelt Park Thursday nights at 9pm following Concerts in the Park Date

Movie

Rating

June 9

Inside Out

PG

June 16

Star Wars - The Force Awakens

PG-13

June 23

The Avengers - Age of Ultron

PG-13

June 30

Raiders of the Lost Ark

PG

July 7

Pitch Perfect 2

PG-13

July 14

Minions

PG

July 21

Toy Story

G

July 28

Jurassic World

PG-13

Aug 4

The Mighty Ducks

PG

Aug 11

Monsters, Inc.

G

Aug 18

Top Gun (1986)

PG

Aug 25

Zootopia

PG

Playing at a Town Near You Friday nights at 9pm Date

Movie

Rating

June 10

Inside Out Battle Lake

PG

June 25

Avengers - Age of Ultron Browns Valley

PG-13

July 15

Minions Battle Lake

PG

Aug 12

Monsters, Inc. Battle Lake

G

Aug 26

Zootopia Erhard

PG

40 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

Dave Cresap has 496 career wins as a high school boys basketball coach. His journey includes coaching in three state tournaments. His Perham Yellowjackets won the Class AA championship in 2011, placed third in 2012 and qualified again in 2013.

“There was a ball in my hands when I was two years old and I got really involved in Little League Baseball when I was growing up in Hawley,” recalled Cresap. “When I was fifteen I started getting really interested in basketball.

Tom Critchley Sr. hired me as the assistant recreation director. I started working with T-ball kids and worked my way up to coaching Babe Ruth baseball in the program. I did all the field work and also got involved with the youth basketball program under Critchley, who was the

head boys basketball coach in Hawley at the time. That got me kind of kick-started in the coaching profession as I realized I wanted to do something for kids. Coach Critchley remains a very strong mentor to this day.”

While at Hawley, Cresap played high school basketball for Bob Kohler, dressing as a freshman and playing point guard as a sophomore.

He missed six games that year with a broken arm. His senior year they lost to Barnesville in the District 23 semifinals. He also competed in track and field, running the mile.

Cresap graduated from Hawley High School in 1978 and then went to Fergus Falls Community College where he played for legendary coach Dave Retzlaff.

Dave Cresap “Retz is one of the most important mentors in my life,” said Cresap.

“He was very influential in my life then and remains so today. He probably had more to do with my career path than anyone other than my mom and dad, and my family.”

As a sophomore at FFCC, Cresap and the Spartans took third place in the MCAC State Tournament, being upset by Anoka-Ramsey in the semifinals. He averaged nine assists per game his sophomore year.

“Cres was an outstanding point guard for us at FFCC, a great competitor and unselfish player,” remembered Retzlaff.

After two years at Valley City State University, where he served as a team captain, it was time to make a choice as far as a career. First he thought about being a social studies

42 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

by Craig Olson • Photography by Thru Him Photography

teacher, then a physical education teacher. However, he wasn’t passionate about either. Along with his wife, Teri, who he met at VCSU, the Cresap’s moved to Upham, North Dakota. There, at age 23, Cresap became a head basketball coach for the first time.

From Upham, the Cresap’s moved to Walhalla, North Dakota. Their program was struggling, having won only five games in six years.

From 1992-1995 Cresap coached the team to three winning seasons, including an appearance in the regional finals in 1995.

“There were only nine kids out for basketball in the school and they hadn’t played a varsity schedule in 15 years,” said Cresap. “I told the school board I would take the head coaching position but only if we would start playing a varsity schedule. I thought that was the only way to build a competitive program. We wound up winning seven games the first year we had a varsity schedule and that got the excitement going.

We saw the program grow over the seven years we were there.”

Cresap, who taught fifth and sixth grade students at Upham and Walhalla, had applied for a teaching/ coaching position at Perham in 1994. He was offered the head basketball coaching job, but the teaching job was at the first grade level, where he didn’t have experience. He decided to return to Walhalla and see what happened from there. In 1995, the Perham coaching job was open again and this time there was also an intermediate level elementary teaching job open. That was the year the Prairie Wind Middle School was built.

“The program hadn’t been very successful as they had won only one game the year before,” remembered Cresap. “I knew it was going to be a challenge as far as wins and losses, but to be honest with you my love comes in teaching kids the game, win or lose. Teaching life lessons through basketball and building relationships with the kids are my main priorities. The majority of the kids I’m coaching aren’t going to play college basketball, so I try to teach them that basketball is just a small part of life.”

Cresap’s daughter Brandi played for the Perham girls basketball team, went to Central Lakes Community College and also played at the University of Minnesota-Morris. She is currently coaching ninth grade girls basketball and JV softball at Barnesville.

His son Jordan was a member of the 2011 state championship team he coached, and his youngest son, Carter, is a ninth-grader and a current member of the Yellowjackets varsity boys basketball team.

His wife, Teri, earned six letters at Valley City State University.

Cresap says he has benefited greatly from the people he has worked with through the years, “You have so many colleagues who help you out.

The people in the HOL are phenomenal people and great coaches.

My staff has been with me since I got here. Brian Schwantz is one of the best friends I have and is so loyal to the program. The administration is so supportive in both the coaching and teaching that I do.”

One of the main reasons for the success of the Perham program is the ‘Jacket Buddies’ program which was established by Cresap in his first year as head coach. The program is for kids from kindergarten through eighth grade.

“That first year we had forty kids in the program. For the last fifteen years we haven’t been under 125 kids. What we do is bring those kids in a few times each year and our varsity kids work with them. We have tremendous parent involvement and support, also.”

Even now Cresap remains heavily invested in the youth program in Perham.

“I think that is the number one thing in keeping a successful program going,” acknowledged Cresap.

“I think it is important to interact with the young kids and establish relationships with them and between them and my varsity players. I ask a lot of my players as far as giving back to the program and the community.”

The 2015-2016 team finished the season 23-7, losing in the Section 8AA championship game to DG-F. Members of the team were in middle school during the three-year state tournament run for the Yellowjackets.

MAY / JUNE 2016 SPORTS VIEW 43

Dave Cresap “Our sophomores went 23-3 this season and have made great improvement in the last two years,” reported Cresap.

“My son is a ninth-grader and that group has a great passion to get to state during their high school days. The desire and motivation is there and they show a great work ethic as well.”

Coach Retzlaff is one of Coach Cresap’s admirers saying, “David is one outstanding basketball coach, who I feel matches up with any coach in the state. His teams compete, in the image of their coach, and are always prepared to win. I especially admire his ability to ‘manage’ a game, control tempo and get his team to execute in game. He is always tough to beat.”

As for down time, Cresap and his family try to take a driving trip every 4 or 5 years, and any time he can wet a fishing line it’s a good day. His summer days, however, are quite full. His team plays 45 to 50 varsity games and 30 JV games over the summer. He also volunteers his time from 6:00am to 2:00pm to run the speed and agility program for between 120 and 150 kids from the district Mondays, Tuesday and Thursdays. They also have a summer league from 9:00am to 11:00pm every Wednesday.

44 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

by Craig Olson • Photography by Thru Him Photography

“We’re being almost forced to run a program like this if you are going to be competitive during your season,” said Cresap. “Basketball is a time consuming sport, but I really want our kids to be two-sport, if not three-sport athletes.

As varsity coaches we work together the best we can to not overlap with our practice schedules during the off-season.”

Cresap would like to see a couple of changes in the game. One of them would be the introduction of a shot clock, preferably 30 or 35 seconds. The other would be a re-introduction of the consolation bracket in the state tournament. The former may not happen for a while, however, the latter is most likely going to happen next season.

Cresap has coached for 31 years, 21 of them in Perham, but he may be one of a dying breed of coaches who spend that much time with a program or in the profession. “I don’t think we’re going to see 30 or 35 year veteran coaches much anymore. There was a 26% turnover among head boys basketball coaches in Minnesota this season and that’s a high number. A lot of people want to be a head coach, but the time commitment during the summer is not attractive to them. That’s the main difference I’m seeing in the new breed of coaches.”

Photo provided by Dave Cresap

Scholar Athlete > WEST CENTRAL

KNIGHTS

Cally Haraldson Volleyball - golf Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 3.90 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society, JO Volleyball, FFA Pets: Dog, Milly and Cat, Bubba

Notable Academic Accomplishment: A Honor Roll, 4.0 for a couple of quarters In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Working as a dental hygienist with a cute dog.

Scholar Athlete > BRANDON-EVANSVILLE

CHARGERS

Elizabeth Vinson basketball - track Nickname: Liz, Toots Favorite School Subject: Math and Science Grade Point Average: 3.9 Groups and Organizations: Knowledge Bowl, PTK, National Honor Society, Post Secondary Enrollment

Notable Academic Accomplishment: Dean’s List, A Honor Roll I Root For: UNC Tar Heels and Vikings Pets: Dog, Chelsey and Cat, Butter In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Working in the biochemical field, married with kids.

Cora okeson

Detroit Lakes > gymnastics Detroit Lakes freshman gymnast Cora Okeson placed second in the All Around competition at the State Class A Gymnastics Meet February 19-20 at the U of M Sports Pavilion with a score of 37.8250. Okeson was also runner-up on the balance beam (9.5625) and took seventh on the vault (9.5625). She also posted scores of 9.5250 on floor exercise and 9.2250 on the uneven bars. The Lakers repeated as Class A team champions with 150.225 points.

emily marso

battle lake > BASKETBALL Battle Lake senior Emily Marso reached 1,000 career points for her career as the Battle Lake girls basketball team defeated Rothsay on Friday, February 12 by the score of 67-31. Marso scored 11 points on the night and got to 1,000 midway through the first half. Marso, who averaged 9.1 points, 3.3 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game, made 85% of her free throw attempts. She was named to the Little Eight Conference All-Conference team.

mackenzie korf

pelican rapids > wRESTLING Senior Mackenzie Korf reached career point number 2,000 on February 11 as the Pelican Rapids girls basketball team posted a 78-67 road win at Park Rapids. Korf reached the milestone when she hit a free throw line jumper early in the first half and went on to score 20 points in the game, while dishing out 11 assists and pulling down 8 rebounds. Korf joins former Pelican Rapids boys player Ty Storrusten as the only two Vikings to reach the 2,000 point mark.

Antonia trautmann

alexandria > skiing Competing for the Lakes Area Alpine Ski Team in the Section 5 meet at Afton Alps on February 4, Alexandria junior Antonia Trautmann qualified to advance to the state competition at Giants Ridge near Biwabik. At the state meet, Trautmann finished 52nd out of 88 participants in the Dual Course Race with a time of 1:26.14. Team members are from Underwood, Chokio-Alberta, Wheaton/Herman/Norcross, West Central Area and Alexandria Schools.

caleb neubauer

Fergus Falls > diver Fergus Falls freshman diver Caleb Neubauer advanced to the Class A State Finals in Diving by placing sixteenth in the preliminary round at the U of M Aquatic Center, scoring 239.50 points. He finished ahead of eight other divers to qualify for the finals, finishing in fifteenth place with 334.35 points. He was the Section 5A runner-up and was named the Otters Most Outstanding Diver for the 2015-2016 season.

ben naddy

ottertail central > wrestler Ottertail Central sophomore wrestler Ben Naddy claimed third place at 106 pounds in the Class A State Tournament with a pin at 2:47 of his third place match against Matt Petersen from Byron. Naddy had a final season record of 42-1 and led the Bulldogs with 28 pins and 277 team points. He was named the Most Valuable Wrestler for Otter Tail Central and was the Section 6A champion in his weight class.

46 SPORTS VIEW MAY / JUNE 2016

Scholar Athlete > BARNESVILLE

TROJANS

Jack Lien football - basketball - baseball Nickname: Phil Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 3.9

I Root For: Vikings and Wild Pets: A Dog Named CJ In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Working in a hospital as a nurse.

Scholar Athlete > HILLCREST

COMETS

Megan Aasness basketball - softball Nickname: Megs Favorite School Subject: History and Anatomy Grade Point Average: 4.04 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society Pets: One Dog, Hunter

Notable Academic Accomplishments: Deans List, Salutatorian I Root For: Twins and Gophers In Ten Years...I’ll Be: With a job, surrounded by the people I love.