High School Sports View Sep/Oct '16

www.highschoolsportsview.com

videos, ONLINE-only content & past articles

ROSTER

6

FEATURE S Set for Success Underwood’s Jacey Ross

12

18

05 Cheers from across the pond 05 WDC Cheer Team is London Bound

BY Jackie Jenson

Three Top Scorers and Defenders Return for a Shot at State

26

A Conversation with craig Mariah Monke

BY Norm Newell

BY Craig olson

32

The Mental Game

WCA’s Ryley Nelson Dominates with Precision and Passion

BY Alicia Underlee Nelson

40 HILLCREST FOOTBALL Photography by: JEREMY PETRICK PHOTOGRAPHY

Cover

www.highschoolsportsview.com Volume 4 No. 1

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

BY Lexus Haut

Hillcrest Football

SEPT / OCTOBER 2016

then & Now Tony Thiel

BY craig olson

46

Craig’s A List

23 23 25 25 29 29 31 31 39 39 45 47 47

PELICAN RAPIDS: PRESTON HART UNDERWOOD: Carter Peterson Perham: Carly Jo Breitenfeldt Detroit Lakes: Emma Disse Brandon-Evansville: McKenon Plaster Hillcrest: Abigail Christenson Barnesville: Brady Tweeton Breckenridge: Allison Lorenz Wadena-Deer Creek: Konnor Steuve rothsay: Kenzie Lankow ashby: Sawyer Jean Risbrudt fergus falls: Elijah Colbeck Alexandria: McKenzie Revering West Central Area: Drake Swanson Battle Lake: Morgan Klintworth

SPORTS VIEW is published six times a year by Compass Media, PO Box 9761, Fargo, ND 58106. This is a free publication available in several retail outlets throughout the West Central Minnesota area. Also available through subscription at the following rates: One Year (6 issues) $10.00, Two Years (12 issues) $18.00, Three Years (18 issues) $24.00. ©2016 Compass Media. Except for purposes of review, material contained herein may not be reproduced without prior written consent. 218-205-2706 • artwork@fmsportsview.com

117 South Mill Street Fergus Falls, MN 56537 218.739.3377 • 888.389.3377 americanfederalbank.com

Kevyn B Heck 218.998.2233 Kevyn@KevynHeck.com

125 S Mill St Fergus Falls, MN

Coverage you can Trust, from an Agent you Know!

Auto • Home • Life • Business • Health

4 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Scholar Athlete > PELICAN RAPIDS

VIKINGS

Preston Hart football - trapshooting Nickname: Prestie Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 4.0 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society, FFA Notable Academic Accomplishment: Excel Award Nominee

I Root For: Minnesota Vikings Pets: Dog, Izzy In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Starting a family with a good job.

Scholar Athlete > UNDERWOOD

ROCKETS

Carter Peterson football - basketball - track Nickname: Petey Favorite School Subject: Physics Grade Point Average: 4.087 I Root For: The Minnesota Vikings Notable Academic Accomplishment: Top of Physics Class

Groups and Organizations: Knowledge Bowl, Speech, BPA, Show Choir, Jazz Band, Economics Team Pets: Dogs; Molly, Maggie and Copper, One Cat; Stormy In Ten Years...I’ll Be: A agricultural engineer working for John Deere.

JACEY ROSS

I

f you ask many high school seniors what they’re most looking forward to, the answer you’ll typically get it is “graduation.” But for Jacey Ross, she wants nothing more than to take her team to state.

This fall Jacey Ross is a senior at Underwood High School in Underwood, MN. She is the youngest of three kids, and the daughter of both the football and volleyball coaches.

Coming from an athletic family her career was not a given, but at the same time it’s not all that surprising.

by Lexus Haut • Photography by Thru Him Photography

Growing up, she would watch her mom on the court - not as a player, but as the coach. She remembers running around the gym from the time she could walk. It’s where she spent a majority of her time, and made lifelong friends. Jacey knew that because of her raw talent and her mom’s knowledge, she would become a volleyball player someday.

At her first opportunity, which was in 4th grade, Jacey went out for the volleyball team and the rest is pretty much history. Being the coach’s daughter the sport was never forced on Jacey. She learned the game and fell in love all on her own.

For the last 18 years, Jacey has lived and breathed volleyball.

8 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

In her second year, Jacey decided to follow in her mom’s footsteps - one step further. She became the setter for her team. Not only was that the position that her mom played, but it’s where she felt most at home.

“When you think of a setter, you think of a quarterback,” she said.

“She’s the playmaker, the leader, the transition from play to point.”

“Jacey is a great teammate and she is also one of my best friends. She is a great leader on the court and I love playing with her in volleyball and basketball!”

Teammate, Captain, Friend In talking with her teammates it’s clear to see that Jacey’s mentality and skill have formed not only an amazing person, but an extraordinary player.

From these words, one can see that Jacey has had quite a successful career, but let the numbers speak for themselves. In 2014, during her sophomore year, Jacey completed her one-thousandth set assist. A set assist is when her set leads to a kill.

“Jacey is a great person to play next to on the floor, she always wants to win, and is willing to do what’s needed as our setter!”

She hopes to reach two-thousand by the end of the year and in doing so will break the school record.

Last season’s stats include 98 kills, 671 set assists, 44 ace serves and 296 digs.

Jacey was selected as co-captain in her junior year. It’s likely that this title will carry over into her final year.

As captain and setter, the team looks to Jacey for guidance and reassurance. It’s a big role to fill, but she’s gotten used to the responsibility.

During the off-season, Jacey is like any other teenager from Minnesota.

She loves to spend time with her family and friends at the lake. She also enjoys going to sporting events, in particular, Gopher volleyball games. She also plays basketball for

Underwood in the winter months.

A majority of her time, however, is invested in the game of volleyball.

Jacey spends almost every day in the gym, and attends volleyball camps on a regular basis.

Jacey Ross

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016 SPORTS VIEW 9

JACEY ROSS

Diane Ross

by Lexus Haut • Photography by Thru Him Photography

Mother : Coach, Daughter : Player This will be the fifth year together on the court for Jacey and her mom, Diane. It all started in Jacey’s 8th grade year, when she was moved up to Varsity. As one can imagine, it’s not always easy to keep their home and court relationships separate, but they do the best they can. When it comes to Jacey’s teammates, they’re aware of the mother/daughter relationship and understand the dynamics involved. If decisions are ever questioned or accused of be-

ing bias, the situation is always addressed in a positive manner. Jacey doesn’t let this affect her game, she says, “You just have to let it go.”

Over the years sharing the love of the game has done nothing but strengthened Jacey and her mom’s relationship.

“I am very proud of her as a daughter and a player. She has a passion for the game and that is fun to watch both as a coach and mom,” says Diane.

As proud as her mom is, Jacey couldn’t be more thankful for what she’s taught her. Leadership, responsibility, endurance -- she’s got it all.

Now or Never Going into her senior year, Jacey knows that this run will eventually come to an end. What she’s telling herself, “Play every game like it’s your last, because at some point it will be and I know that.” Looking back at her career, she described it as “lucky.” She hasn’t had any major injuries or set-

backs, and for a high school athlete she knows how fortunate she is.

ing to state would probably be my dream come true.”

For now she just wants to see how the season will go but, with six starters returning she’s definitely optimistic.

The current team has been playing together since elementary school. They have great chemistry and know how to communicate on the court. Going into this year, it’s safe to say they all have the same goal. Jacey hasn’t seen the lights of state since she was moved to varsity in 8th grade. She says, “Go-

As for her future, it is currently unplanned. Jacey hopes to attend a four-year school that she loves and play volleyball for them. She wants to pursue the medical field and someday become a Registered Nurse.

Wherever life may take her, you can rest assured that the game will go with her. “Volleyball has been my whole life, it’s hard to picture it without it.”

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016 SPORTS VIEW 11

Hillcrest football

T

hat’s right, they’re back.

Three all-conference football players for the Hillcrest Comets, quarterback/linebacker Sean McGuire, running back/linebacker Kyler Newman and wide receiver/safety Reggie Undseth are all back as seniors this fall. They are the three top offensive and defensive leaders returning from their 9-2 team last year and hope to lead the team to the promised land of the state tournament. Last year they lost in the section final to state powerhouse Underwood by 5 points.

New head coach Evan Newman is enthusiastic about the possibilities for the season. Newman, an assistant coach the last two seasons, has stepped in with the departure of prior head coach Charlie Brue.

best to win. But why I coach and why these kids play isn’t all about the W-L’s. These kids will always play hard and give it their best, but in true Hillcrest tradition they will be humble in victory and defeat.

They understand it’s about giving glory to the Lord, and appreciating their parents and the students and fans cheering for them.”

“Our four captains, Sean, Kyler, Reggie and Sam Isaac are all very mature for their age and understand that football in the fall helps set the tone right away for the school year,” Newman adds. “These captains know that how they treat

“I’m excited for this coming season for our players, our parents and our many followers as we have these three talented leaders back,” states Coach Newman.

“We also have an athletic, energetic and knowledgeable nucleus around them. I strongly feel we’ll be hard to stop and exciting to watch. Part of playing sports is giving your

14 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

by Norm Newell • Photography by Jeremy Petrick Photography the younger players and how they respect all the girls and boys in our student body, in school and out, can make the Hillcrest experience rewarding for all. They are super teammates to all players on our team and they treat adults and other students alike with respect. Their football stats and accomplishments are excellent, but their respect for others transcends football stats and I’m very proud of them for that. I watch how they interact off the field with their fellow players and other students and see they really enjoy doing stuff together with kids across the spectrum of the Hillcrest student body.”

So, what makes Sean McGuire, Kyler Newman and Reggie Undseth top scorers and defenders? Coach Newman has several answers for that.

Reason #1 | They have football experience All three players got significant playing time their freshman year.

McGuire played linebacker on defense and put in some time at tight end and running back. Newman started at linebacker, third on the team in tackles, and got a full game in at running back besides spot duty there. Undseth played at cornerback with spot duty at running back. The young team finished 1-7.

Their sophomore year, they were all starters and helped the team to a 5-4 record, playing in the same defensive positions. Offensively, McGuire had a breakout year as a receiver with 17

catches, and saw fill-in duty at quarterback and on a number of running plays. Reggie Undseth and Kyler Newman stepped into the starting running back roles and led the team in rushing throughout the season. Undseth went for 609 yards on the ground, Newman 550. Undseth also had 141 receiving yards, and with returning kicks, he led the team with 935 all-purpose yards.

These three players accounted for 138 tackles for the team on defense, and Newman led the team with 9 tackles for losses. They also accounted for 6 of the team’s 9 interceptions on defense.

Last season, their junior year, they played the same defensive positions again, but offensively they took on different roles

K y l e r N e w m a n | R e g g i e U n d s e t h | S e a n M c G u i re

Hillcrest football and the team went 9-2. McGuire stepped into the quarterback position and flourished. He completed a staggering total of 153 passes out of 270 attempts for a 56.7% completion rate. He passed for 2,036 yards, meaning he can throw the ball down the field for completions, and threw for 26 TDs with only 6 interceptions. He had an overall quarterback rating of 147.3, with anything over 100 considered quite good… you do the math. Newman took on the primary running back role and rushed for 853 yards, also catching 39 passes for 518 yards, for a total of 1,371 yards from the line of scrimmage. Fans, that’s really good in any league. Reggie Undseth moved into the primary wide receiver role and was McGuire’s go-to guy with 45 receptions for 733 yards, averaging over 16 yards a reception.

You can easily see now why Coach Newman is excited about this com-

by Norm Newell • Photography by Jeremy Petrick Photography

ing year and expects his team to go up and down the field. Defensively, these three players were 2nd, 3rd and 4th in tackles behind departing all-state defensive player Chris Tungseth. A defensive highlight for the season was Undseth setting a school record with 9 interceptions on the season.

can throw the ball accurately 70 yards, and he sees the field well. I know colleges would like him at the pitcher spot in baseball too.”

McGuire says if he went to a small college he may look at football in the fall and baseball in the spring, if he went to a larger college he might try out for baseball.

Reason #2 | They are talented athletically Sean McGuire is a three sport athlete, not only excelling at quarterback in football but also as a pitcher and shortstop in baseball, which he says is his favorite sport. He also plays guard and forward in basketball. He’s had a number of colleges contact him already about playing baseball and has had a couple of contacts about football, notably Moorhead State. Per Coach Newman,” I really think he could play college football at the quarterback position. He has a tremendous arm,

Kyler Newman, besides being the man at running back for the Comets this year, is also a top guard on their basketball team, and he considers basketball his favorite sport. In the spring, he concentrates on weightlifting and conditioning for football and basketball. In basketball he was the 6th man as a freshman and started his sophomore year, but missed a number of games with injuries.

His junior year he was the starting shooting guard and was second on the team in scoring. He’s played AAU basketball in the summer with other star players in western Min-

16 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

nesota, playing in tournaments in other states also. Nothing for sure yet, but he’s considering NDSCS for college and would try out for the basketball team there.

Reggie Undseth is also a three sport athlete, playing basketball in the winter and baseball in the spring.

In basketball he started a few games as a freshman, started most games as a sophomore, and started on last year’s 26-1 basketball team. He’s played baseball since his freshman year where he played outfield, but moved to shortstop and 2nd base his sophomore year. He also pitches on occasion. Asked what sport is his favorite, “whatever the season” was his answer. “I like the changes in seasons and activities” he says. He went to football camp at Concordia College in Moorhead and they’ve talked to him about coming there as a defensive back. UMD has some interest in him for baseball. Nothing

is decided yet but he would possibly play baseball and/or maybe football depending on the college. He says he would choose the college fit first before worrying about playing sports.

Reason #3 | They are mentally strong Coach Newman says about all three players, “They are all very good students in the classroom, but also good students of the game they are playing. They have played enough football and other sports to know what it takes preparation-wise and on the field of play to be successful.

That especially includes being selfless. I could put any one of these three at any position on the team and not only would they be good at it athletically, but they wouldn’t care where, they would do anything for the team and its’ success.

He continues, “They don’t care who gets the stats. They understand a team sport is not about them and their individual goals, it’s about their roles in the team format and

being the best they can be at their role.”

Coach Newman gives football examples by pointing out how well Sean can see the field and read the defenses to find the open man; how Kyler can read the running back holes and hit them quickly and hard; and how Reggie can run an excellent pass pattern to get open, as well as read the other team’s pass plays to be in a proper position for interceptions.

Reason #4 | They have something special “Sean is a very smart quarterback, sees the field very well, has great arm strength and is a vocal leader,” says Coach Newman. “He has the potential to be the all-time Hillcrest leader in passing yards. Newman goes on to say, “Kyler for his size runs very hard, can run over people.

He has good hands as a receiver, and as a teammate, he won’t let anyone pick on anybody else…he looks out for his teammates. Defensively, he could be the all-time leader for

Hillcrest in tackles.” Comments on Reggie Undseth include, “A great safety, he reads the plays so well.

He will likely be the all-time leader in interceptions for Hillcrest. As a teammate, he thinks about everyone else above himself, and his prayers after practice reflect a very mature and thoughtful process.”

Reason #5 | They are great teammates “These young men will make great captains, because they are excellent teammates to their fellow players,” states Coach Newman. “They know in football that team camaraderie and supporting each other is the key to being successful.” He notes that they do their work in football practices, but also make it fun for all the players on the team, regardless of ability.

The team concept came through clearly when I asked each of the three players what were the top two things they were looking forward to this coming season and the number

one answer for each of them: “Being with the guys, giving it all with our teammates”. Their consensus that nothing is more exciting in football than a teammate making a big hit or great play, no matter who it is on the team makes it very clear that each of them values their teammates and the team experiences the most. Each of them recognize they could do something special this year and are very much looking forward to giving it their all in their senior season.

These boys at a young age have grasped a firm understanding of what sports are all about, i.e. doing everything you can to do your best and enjoying the season journey with your teammates.

Fans, catch their games and join them in their journey, it will definitely be exciting.

Look out Class 9-Man Section 4 football…Sean McGuire, Kyler Newman and Reggie Undseth are back!

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016 SPORTS VIEW 17

18 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

WDC Cheerleading

F

or Wadena-Deer Creek seniors Nicole Iken, Sydney Emerson, Ashely Lehmkuhl and Kloe Pettit-Sperling, cheerleading is more than a high school activity, it is a ticket to travel to far away places and an opportunity to do what they love with a group of girls they love just as much.

“I’ve been a football cheerleader for four years,” relays Nicole. “I like cheering because it is both challenging and fun.”

“I like that I get to be on a team with my friends and cheer under the Friday night lights which is so awesome,” notes Kloe.

“It’s also less stressful [ than other sports],” adds Sydney. “You get to be part of a team but also have time for other things and school.”

Nicole, Sydney, Ashley and Kloe are part of the Wadena-Deer Creek football cheer squad which consists of twelve student athletes under the direction of Holly Becker. Last year the entire WDC cheer team got the opportunity to perform at the Citrus Bowl Pre-Game show on January 1, 2016 that was held in Orlando, Fla. Just one of their many accolades of late.

“We were part of a Universal Cheerleader Association, UCA, Pre-Game show,” explains Nicole. “The best of the best,” she notes.

“It was a great experience,” recalls Kloe. “We were featured in the middle group which is really great spot to be positioned.”

“It was a lot of fun, but it was also pretty hot,” adds Ashley.

20 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

by Jackie Jenson • Photography by Thru Him Photography This year Iken, Emerson, Lehmkuhl and Pettit-Sperling tried out to be part of another type of elite UCA cheer squad. Scoring high enough to qualify for this elite group of cheerleaders from all over the United States, the four senior WDC cheerleaders discovered on August 9th that they would be traveling to London, England this winter, representing their school in the city’s News Day Parade.

“It was tough competition to get to London,” notes Nicole. “Eight [from our team] tried out and four made it.”

“We had to learn and perform an ‘extreme routine’ for the try-out, our best jump, cheer and dance,” explains Sydney.

“We are so excited to perform in the New Year’s Day Parade and stay a week in London,” says Ashley.

Next on the agenda is to fundraise for the pricey trip across the pond.

The girls, however, approach their fundraising endeavor as just another part of preparing for the upcoming cheer season which consists of getting physically into cheer condition, learning a number of new cheers, perfecting their coordinated stunts and securing funds to get to London.

“We’ve done a few fundraisers and were even on the radio,” notes Lehmkuhl.

“It’s very intense. We’ve kind of bonded over the whole thing,” adds Pettit-Sperling.

Both Emerson and Pettit-Sperling have been on the team for two years and this is Lehmkuhl’s first year on the squad. Iken has been a member of the WDC Cheer team since she was a freshman in high school.

Considered a veteran on the team, Iken chalks up their recent series of successes to working hard and having a good attitude. She also points to the fact that the team is continually adding new talent as friends and freshman try out for the team each year.

cheers on this season’s roster, there is always something new to learn according to the veteran cheerleader.

“Half the team is new this year which makes everyone try harder,” explains Iken.

“It takes a lot of arm muscle to do lifts,” notes Pettit-Sperling. “You have to get into the right mind set to do some of these complicated cheers. We work out a lot.”

It is this constant mix of old and new participants that helps the team remain positive, competitive and open to trying new willing to try new things. With more than 70

To condition for the season and learn all the various stunts needed, the cheerleading squad, much like other Minnesota State High School League sanctioned activities, the cheer team practices over the summer, putting in more than 50 hours of training in to ensure their cheers are ready for the football season and appear seamless to the crowd.

“In addition to stunt boot camp, we also run, do push–ups and work on our abs and legs to get ready for the

WDC Cheerleading season as fast as we can,” comments Iken. “We practice hard in the summer to prepare. This year we will be performing more than seventy different cheers.”

“Some of the stunts can be a little scary to do until you really learn them,” adds Emerson. “My favorite cheer, though, is Boogie on Down,” says Sydney. “But you really can’t beat Go, Fight Win! Incorporating more than 20 stunts –things like extensions, pyramid, splits, and backflips to 50-plus cheers, the learning curve is high.

There are several unique stunts

that you may not know by their name, but could recognize in their performances that are challenging to execute correctly. Things like a “Swedish Fall” which amounts to a number of team members lifting another cheerleader to make it look like she is simply lying in the air.

“You have to be strong to be both a flyer [a person who gets lifted] and the person lifting them up,” notes Iken.

After finishing a two-day cheer and stunt camp on August 8-9, the cheer team is readying itself for the upcoming football season, which

22 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

by Jackie Jenson • Photography by Thru Him Photography will take place before school is even in session. Their first game is September 2nd.

year, although they have participated in other sports such as Volleyball and Dance Team through the years.

“The season comes up fast, but I can’t wait to cheer under the lights,” says Pettit-Sperling.

“We work together very well,” concludes Iken. “Getting to be on a team, though, with your friends and having everyone working together is the best part of being on the WDC Cheer Team. We can’t wait for London.”

When asked why they each wanted to become a cheerleader, the answer is simple and very similar for the WDC seniors. In a word - fun.

Lehmkuhl is a three sport athlete, participating in Cheerleading, Dance Team and Softball. For Iken, Emerson and Pettit-Sperling, Cheerleading is their only sport this

Scholar Athlete > PERHAM

YELLOWJACKETS

Carly Jo Breitenfeldt Gymnastics Nickname: Carly Jo Favorite School Subject: Math I Root For: Minnesota Gophers

In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Having a career in the medical field and starting a family.

Scholar Athlete > DETROIT LAKES

LAKERS

Emma Disse Gymnastics - diving - track Nickname: Em Grade Point Average: 3.7 Favorite School Subjects: History Groups and Organizations: Young Life Pets: Three dogs; Ace, Mac and Gus

I Root For: University of Minnesota Gopher Gymnastics In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Out of college, starting a family and settling down.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016 SPORTS VIEW 23

• Must be a 2017 Graduating Senior, Attending Post Secondary School • Must have been featured in High School Sports View as a Scholar Athlete • Download PDF Scholarship Application online at www.fmsportsview.com and submit with essay (500 word max) by emailing both to artwork@fmsportsview.com • Application deadline: February 20, 2017 • Scholarship recipients will be announced in a Summer 2017 issue of High School Sports View.

24 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Scholar Athlete > BRANDON-EVANSVILLE

CHARGERS

McKenon Plaster football - basketball - trapshooting Nickname: Kenon Favorite School Subject: Shop Class Grade Point Average: 3.5 Notable Academic Accomplishment: Student of the Month

Pets: A yellow lab, Maggie; a chocolate lab, Snuff; and a yorky, Khloe In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Building houses.

Scholar Athlete > HILLCREST

COMETS

Abigail Christenson Volleyball - basketball - track Nickname: Abby Favorite School Subject: English and Music Grade Point Average: 4.0 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society Notable Academic Accomplishments: Honor Roll

I Root For: Twins, Vikings (Minnesota Teams) Pets: Dog, Coco; Cats, Shadow and Mixy In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Married, graduated from college and settled into a job.

A CONVERSATION Mariah Monke FERGUS FALLS > basketball Fergus Falls High School graduate (2012) Mariah Monke was a standout volleyball and basketball player while playing for the Otters, earning All-Conference honors four times in basketball.

She was named to the Minnesota Coach’s Association State All-Star team and was selected to the Wells Fargo 2012 Minnesota State All-Tournament Team. Mariah is the Otters all-time leading rebounder, grabbing 25 boards in a single contest, 326 for a single season and 1,134 for her career. She

by Craig Olson was also the Regional AAA award winner. After graduation Craig follows area sports throughout she made the decision to accept a scholarship to attend the the year at www.craigolsonsports.com University of Wisconsin – Green Bay to play college basketball.

As a redshirt freshman she appeared in 30 games, making five starts for the Phoenix, averaging 3.8 points and 2.2 rebounds per game while leading the team with 18 blocks on the season. The next season she started 24 of 28 games played while battling an injury for portions of the season, averaging 4.1 points per game while shooting .485 (47-97) from the field. During her third season she averaged 2.6 points and 2.1 rebounds per game. Monke decided to forego her last season of eligibility at Green Bay, graduating this past spring.

Craig Olson: Mariah, you are back in Fergus Falls after having graduated from UW-Green Bay, bring us up to date on what you will be doing with District 544.

Maria Monke: I am excited to be back in the area, and I will be student teaching at Kennedy Secondary this fall. I also get the opportunity to coach 7th grade volleyball.

CO: When did you decide that teaching and coaching would be your career path and how much were you influenced by the fact that both of your parents are in education?

26 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

MM: I always had teaching as an option in the back of my mind, but it wasn’t until I got to college and took some general courses in education that I started to realize this was the right career for me. The professors I had were so caring and helpful, and I really enjoyed studying how people learn.

MM: I’m currently just focusing on doing a good job student teaching. I’m lucky to be able to work with a couple of great teachers this semester, so I plan on trying to learn as much from them as I can.

Eventually, I would like to get my masters and maybe go on to work in administration.

CO: There are so many opportunities in the education field with classroom teaching, coaching, administration and more. What type of career goals do you have in mind at this time?

CO: As you reflect on your four years of college, what are some of the things that stand out about that whole experience?

MM: I had a great time the past four years at Green Bay, but I was also challenged in

a conversation with craig a lot of ways. Eventually, I learned how to see failing as a means to improving, which is something I didn’t really understand in high school. I’m grateful to have had coaches, professors, and teammates that pushed me to become better.

the time. The only way to properly describe what I looked like on the court would be a wet noodle in boiling water. It became clear very quickly that I had a lot of work to do if I was ever going to be able to compete with these girls.

CO: What did you find to be the most challenging part of being a collegiate student-athlete?

CO: As for the on the court experience as a member of the basketball team, what were some of your personal highlights and team highlights?

MM: Just trying to keep a good balance with school, workouts, friends, etc. Also, you’re literally tired all the time. Your body just isn’t used to working out that much, so naps and coffee are a must.

CO: What surprised you the most about the college game as compared to high school?

MM: When I started summer workouts four years ago I was 18. The very first week there I was scrimmaging against 23 year old alumni.

These girls were stronger, faster, and much smarter than I was at

MM: I got to travel to some amazing places. We visited Cancun and the Virgin Islands, but my favorite memory is for sure playing in front of President Obama against Princeton in the NCAA tournament.

CO: Did you miss volleyball and did you get a chance to play any recreational or intramural volleyball in college?

MM: Unfortunately, our coaches didn’t allow us to play intramural sports, but yes I did miss volleyball

28 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Mariah Monke very much. Now I feel extremely rusty whenever I try to play. It’s crazy how much our bodies adapt to different sports, and I’m grateful I could play three sports in high school. I ran into some wear and tear type injuries after playing a couple years in college, and I think playing different sports at a young age was a good balance for my body.

MM: I remember playing Sartell my junior year and it was a close game.

The gym was packed and by the end there was maybe 50 standing at the entrance! I remember thinking (when I should have been paying attention to the game) how cool that was. It was just one of those moments when the significance of everything really hits you.

CO: What did you like most about the Green Bay area?

CO: You were a part of some very successful teams. As people move on to college or into the work force it is easy to lose touch. Have you been able to keep in contact with a lot of your former classmates and teammates since leaving high school?

MM: They had some wonderful restaurants! It’s not just a stereotype you really can get cheese curds anywhere. They also have a sense of community there that I would say is very similar to Fergus. The environment our fans created at our home games was insanely great and is something a lot of women’s college programs just don’t have.

CO: When you look back on your days as an Otter, what are the first memories that you have?

MM: I feel lucky to have been a part of some great teams and to have gotten to play with some very talented athletes. I’m still very close with my friends from high school. Our lives are all going in a million different directions, but whenever we meet up we can just pick up where we left off.

Scholar Athlete > BARNESVILLE

TROJANS

Brady Tweeton Football - Wrestling - baseball Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 3.88 Groups and Organizations: Assumption Youth I Root For: Minnesota Vikings

Scholar Athlete > BRECKENRIDGE

COWBOYS

Allison Lorenz volleyball - basketball Nickname: Big Al Favorite School Subject: English I Root For: Miami Dolphins Pets: Dog: Elvis

Groups and Organizations: St. Mary’s Youth Group In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Out of college and working.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016 SPORTS VIEW 29

a conversation with craig

Mariah Monke CO: When you think of your whole high school experience, who were the teachers, coaches, peers, who had the biggest impact on you during those formative years?

MM: This list could go on forever, but definitely Renae Erickson, Josh Mohagen, Renae Rasmusson, Jim Salentine and so many others. I was so surprised when I got to college and talked to my teammates about what there high school athletic experiences had been like. People don’t realized how lucky we are to have great people as coaches. Coaches who truly care about their players and treat them with respect. These people taught me about what’s really important in life.

CO: How excited are you to be doing some student teaching and coaching in Fergus Falls and does it feel strange to be in that role in your old school?

MM: I think it will definitely be interesting to be looking at everything with a different lens than I had when I was a student there, but I’m still very excited!

CO: I’ve always thought high school boys volleyball should be a competitive sport. What do you think?

MM: I agree! They actually have quite a few high schools that have boys volleyball in Wisconsin. Not to mention you don’t need a ton of players to make a team, so I think it’d be a good idea.

CO: I know you’ve visited a lot of places through your involvement in sports and probably some family trips, but what would by your dream vacation destination?

MM: I would love just backpacking through Europe. My college roommate and I are trying to plan a trip for this spring actually.

CO: I imagine with your own basketball schedule the last few years you haven’t really been able to see your sister Anna play at UM-Duluth or your brother Matthew play for the Otters as much as you would have liked to.

Is that one of the things you are most looking forward too now that you no longer have that team commitment?

CO: What is something about Mariah Monke that most people wouldn’t know?

MM: Yes! I’m very excited to get to see more of their games and be around for other family functions and holidays that I often had to miss out on the last couple years.

CO: We know you are quite athletic, but what are some of the things you enjoy when you have some down time with family and friends?

CO: Please rank your top 3 Fergus Falls eating places and what is your all-time favorite meal?

MM: Bello Cucina (Favorite: Chicken Parm), Cafe 116 and Ten Mile Steakhouse.

CO: I don’t know how much of the Olympics you were able to watch, but what sports are your favorites in the Olympic games and what was your favorite moment of the 2016 games?

30 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

MM: Honestly, any sport is just amazing to watch. Those athletes are just insane. I actually had a former Green Bay teammate get a bronze medal in rugby. She’s from Canada and probably one of the hardest workers, so that was cool to see her compete.

MM: The people I’m close with know this, but I’m a little bit of an introvert. Oddly enough, I only played team sports so I’m not really sure how that worked out.

MM: I love being outdoors camping, swimming, biking, etc. Those are all things I didn’t get to do much while I was playing basketball. I also love to bake. My Pinterest is like 90% desserts.

CO: After four years in Green Bay, did you become a Packer fan?

MM: Ha! No I didn’t, but they definitely tried to persuade me many times.

Scholar Athlete > wadena-deer creek

wolverines

Konnor Steuve cross country - track & Field Nickname: Konrad Favorite School Subject: History Grade Point Average: 3.7 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society, Knowledge Bowl

Notable Academic Accomplishment: Selected to go down to American Legion Boys state this summer.

I Root For: Cleveland Cavaliers Pets: Two Dogs - Nike and Marley In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Hopefully successful with a job I enjoy.

Scholar Athlete > ROTHSAY

TIGERS

Kenzie Lankow volleyball - basketball Nickname: Twin, Kenz, Kenize, KK, Kenzer, Special K Favorite School Subject: Science Grade Point Average: 3.91 I Root For: Minnesota Twins Notable Academic Accomplishment: A Honor Roll

Groups and Organizations: WE Committee, Band, Choir, Student Council In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Happy with a job that involves helping people.

RYLEY NELSON

R

By Alicia Underlee Nelson • Photography by Janssen Photography “I definitely like cross country the best -- the longer the distance, the better,” says Ryley. “I just like the whole team atmosphere of cross country a lot too, not just the distance. It’s not just about the individual; you’re waiting for your team to cross too.”

“If you look at marathon runners, distance runners, those guys that do well are built like Ryley,” said VanKempen. “I was just talking to a college coach and I told him that Ryley’s a bag of lungs on a set of legs.

He’s a little kid and it looks like two thirds of his body is legs.”

“If you didn’t see Ryley running, you won’t know he’s running,” says his coach John VanKempen. “You don’t hear him breathing; you don’t hear his feet flapping. It’s natural.

He has a natural gait. He’s a very efficient runner.”

Ryley Nelson had an extraordinary season, both as an individual competitor and as a team member, during his junior year in 2015.

“As a freshman and tenth grader, he was good. But he really put on a lot of miles between sophomore and junior year,” said VanKempen.

“Going into his junior year, that’s when he broke out.”

“Ryley was always small in stature,” agrees Assistant Coach Rick Toms.

“He’s always had the drive and desire to do well; it was just a matter of his body catching up to that. He’s got a small frame with a big engine. It’s served him well so far. I think he’s got a lot of room to improve yet, as he gets stronger physically.”

The senior runs track in the spring for West Central Area High School in Barrett, Minnesota, competing in the 3200, 1600 and 800-meter races. But his fall sport – cross country – is closest to his heart.

Ryley is built like an elite distance runner and blessed with an efficient stride. This season, Ryley’s coaches want him to continue weight training to build his strength and add muscle to his lean frame.

yley Nelson runs the gravel roads of rural Grant County with passion and precision, even through the blazing heat of a Minnesota summer. The rhythm of his breath and the muted patter of his running shoes keep barely audible time as he moves past family farms and untamed prairies, his tempo strong and steady.

34 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

He set a new school record in October 2015, running the 5K in just 16:24 at the Park Rapids Invitational. Ryley also finished 1st in the 5K at the MSHSL Section 6A meet with a time of 16:54 and 8th overall at the MSHSL State Championships at 16:25. He and

his teammates on the West Central Area Knights boy’s cross country team finished 1st at the MSHSL Section 6A meet and 4th overall at the MSHSL State Championships.

Ryley is focused on competing at the state level again in 2016. This year’s contest will be held at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota on November 5th, following the section 6A meet at New LondonSpicer High School on October 27th. His individual goal for state is simple. “I just want to do the best I can and place higher than last year,” he says.

The West Central Area High School boys cross country team has similarly high expectations for the 2016 season. “Today they set a team goal and that was to get on the podium this year, within the top three teams in the state,” say VanKempen. “I think that’s attainable for us.”

Ryley has been on the cross county team since 7th grade and has watched it become a more cohesive unit over the years. “I think our team has just built up since I’ve started,” he says. ‘I think that we’ve all become stronger together. I think it’s just time to have fun with the team, to know that it’s my last year and just really try to achieve to the highest of my ability -- to really work hard and see where we can go.”

As a senior, Ryley will help set the tone for the Knights’ season. “He’s definitely the leader,” says Toms. “All the kids respect and listen to him.” Ryley often leads team warm-ups and is quick to offer advice and assistance to his teammates.

“He likes to help the younger runners and lead by example,” agrees his mom, Tammy Nelson. His younger sister, Teagan returns to the women’s team this year, so Ryley will again be traveling to meets with family. His older brother Devin also ran cross country before graduating in 2015 and moving on to Augustana College.

Ryley credits his parents for creating a strong, supportive environment, both in the stands and at home in the farmhouse that’s been in the family for

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016 SPORTS VIEW 35

RYLEY NELSON

By Alicia Underlee Nelson • Photography by Janssen Photography generations. “They’re amazing,” Ryley says of Tammy and his dad, Jon. “They’re always there to support me in everything. They’re always coming to meets. They’re really supportive of everything I do.”

And he does a lot. Amiable and even-keeled, Ryley balances his training and meets with a full schedule of academic and artistic activities. He’s been involved in the student council since the 7th grade and currently serves as President of the National Honor Society.

He’s a musician as well. He plays alto, tenor and baritone saxophone, performs in musicals and sings in the choir. He even toured Europe this July, singing with The Music Ambassadors of Minnesota.

It was hard to take the time away from running to make the trip, but Ryley has proven that he’s good at the balancing game. In just a few weeks, he was back on those gravel roads, pouring his energy into the sport that he loves.

He trains with a quiet intensity that occasionally baffles those around him. “He’s way more dedicated than I’ve ever been at anything in my

36 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

life!” Tammy says with a chuckle.

“He works hard at it. He’s just got some internal drive that just keeps him going. He’s always looking for that next push.”

Ryley agrees that this drive has been an important component of his success in recent years. “I think for me, it’s a lot more mental than physical. I’ve never been a big guy, so I rely a lot more on my mental side to push myself harder,” he says. “I’ve never been the biggest kid or the fastest kid, so you’ve got to keep working hard. Try not to get discouraged and just keep working.”

He passes on that wisdom to the underclassmen on his team and to new runners in general. “It’s not gonna be pretty right away,” he says. “But if you keep rolling with it, you’ll eventually get better and you’ll have more fun the further you go.”

That’s solid advice for both running and for life. After his senior season ends, Ryley hopes to continue running at the collegiate level. He’s visiting colleges now, looking for the one that feels right.

His family and his coaches aren’t worried. They know Ryley will step into the next phase of his life and his running career with the same deliberate discipline he’s applied to everything he’s done so far.

“He not only has the physical ability, but he also has the mental toughness. And that combination is what makes an elite distance runner,” says Toms. “I think he’s going to do well, wherever he decides to go.”

“He’s willing to work for what he wants,” says Tammy. “And as long as he keeps doing that, he’s got a great future ahead of him.”

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016 SPORTS VIEW 37

38 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Scholar Athlete > ASHBY

ARROWS

Sawyer Jean Risbrudt volleyball - basketball Nickname: Soysauce Favorite School Subject: Sociology Grade Point Average: 3.7 Pets: Three Dogs - Brody, Bounty and Peaches; One Cat - Blue Ivy

Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society, Student Council, Band, Choir I Root For: Minnesota Twins In Ten Years...I’ll Be: By the ocean.

Scholar Athlete > FERGUS FALLS

OTTERS

Elijah Colbeck basketball - football - golf Nickname: El Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 3.75 Groups and Organizations: Youth Group I Root For: Minnesota Vikings, Timberwolves and Gophers

Notable Academic Accomplishment: Otter of the Month, All Conference Academic Pets: Dog - Mieka; Cat - Boots In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Some kind of engineer.

DATE

TIME

SPORT

9/6/16 7:00pm FF Boys Soccer

OPPONENT

SD

SD

CHANNEL CHANNEL

1

601

9/13/16 6:00pm FF Girls Swimming Sauk Rapids-Rice

TrekNorth

1

601

9/15/16 7:00pm FF Girls Soccer

Sartell

1

601

9/16/16 7:00pm FF Football

Detroit Lakes

1

601

9/20/16 7:00pm FF Boys Soccer

Sauk Rapids-Rice

1

601

9/22/16 7:00pm FF Girls Soccer

Brainerd

1

601

9/22/16 6:00pm FF Girls Swimming Willmar

123

723

9/29/16 7:00pm FF Volleyball

Brainerd

123

723

9/29/16 7:00pm FF Boys Soccer

Alexandria

1

601

9/30/16 7:00pm FF Football

Roseau

1

601

10/4/16 7:00pm FF Volleyball

Willmar

1

601

10/6/16 7:00pm FF Girls Soccer

Rocori

1

601

123

723

10/6/16 6:00pm FF Girls Swimming Brainerd 10/13/16 7:00pm FF Volleyball

Rocori

1

601

10/19/16 7:00pm FF Football

Perham

1

601

DATE

OPPONENT

SD

SD

TIME

SPORT

CHANNEL CHANNEL

9/6/16 7:15pm Volleyball

Ashby

123

723

9/12/16 7:15pm Volleyball

Wheaton

123

723

9/20/16 7:15pm Volleyball

Brandon-Evansville 123

723

9/23/16 7:00pm Football

Rothsay

1

601

10/4/16 7:15pm Volleyball

Henning

123

723

10/7/16 7:00pm Football

Verndale

1

601

10/11/16 7:15pm Volleyball

Rothsay

1

601

10/14/16 7:00pm Football

Hillcrest

1

601

DATE

TIME

SPORT

OPPONENT

SD

SD

CHANNEL CHANNEL

9/13/16 7:15pm Volleyball

Rothsay

123

723

9/15/16 7:15pm Volleyball

Hillcrest

123

723

9/27/16 7:15pm Volleyball

Underwood

123

723

10/13/16 7:15pm Volleyball

Battle Lake

123

723

10/18/16 7:15pm Volleyball

Clinton-Graceville 1 Beardsley

601

Tony Thiel coached the Battle Lake High School Football team to a pair of Class C state titles, one in 1974 and another in 1977. His 1978 team finished as state runners-up and he also took teams to the state quarterfinals in 1979, 1982 and 1988. He ended up with 211 wins and 69 losses in his coaching career and was inducted into the Minnesota State Football Coaches Association in 1989. An impressive list of accomplishments in his chosen profession.

Thiel was a 1950 graduate of Beardsley High School, spent four years in military service from 1953 to 1957 and then graduated from Moorhead State University in 1960. After spending six years as a teacher and coach in Argyle, Minnesota, Thiel and his wife Janice moved to Battle Lake where he spent 28 years as a math instructor and head football coach.

“I grew up in the little town of Beardsley and they didn’t have a gymnasium at the school, but the city had one and it was open year round,” re-

40 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

called Thiel. “We spent a lot of time there. They also had a skating rink right across the street and we played hockey every weekend. I might have played hockey had we had that sport in high school.”

Thiel was the catcher on the high school baseball team and started playing town team baseball when he was a sophomore in high school.

In his three years as a high school football player Beardsley lost only two games, going undefeated his senior year. They also won the subdistrict basketball tournament twice during his high school career.

“I liked football the best,” said Thiel. “I was a halfback and also played defense as everyone went both ways back then. We played some six man football in Minnesota and eight man football against South Dakota teams. My basketball coach Ray Berneking told me that you can make a business of coaching and teaching and told me I had two choices, Moorhead State or

Tony Thiel

Northern State in Aberdeen. When I got out of the military, Andy McCarty stopped at my house and told me he was going to Moorhead State and that I should go with him. I decided to go. We were teammates on the football team and he was one of my four roommates. I was a wide receiver my freshman year, but I wasn’t very good. I loved sports and I thought coaching sounded like a good idea. I took a job driving school bus before and after my classes, making $160 a month. That, with my GI bill payment of $135 a month kept me from getting into any school debt. My wife is from Sabin and we met during this time.

Best thing that ever happened to me.”

by Craig Olson • Photos provided by Tony Thiel

Thiel coached football, basketball and baseball at Argyle during his five years at the school and also ran the summer recreation program.

Jim Langlie, who was the superintendent at Battle Lake, offered a teaching and coaching job to Thiel in August of 1966. Tony accepted the job and never left.

“I enjoyed Argyle, but it was time to move on. I took on the football program and we had a good team.

We started three sophomores and a freshman in the backfield. Craig

42 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Anderson was our quarterback and he was a good football player. He started for me for three years and he was a horse. Mark Hustad was the best quarterback I ever had at Battle Lake. He was a tremendous athlete and he was an accurate passer. David Freeman and Brian Carr were both outstanding receivers. Chuck Evert ran that offense. We beat Bird Island in double overtime for the title in 1974 with that team.”

Hustad completed four of five passes during the final drive, leading the Battlers to the tying score with one minute to play in regulation. In the first overtime period Battle Lake took defense and Bird Island scored.

The Battlers answered with a touchdown, forcing the second overtime.

Battle Lake started the second OT on offense and scored, setting up the extra point try.

“Tony had the respect of his players and was a great motivator.”

Fellow coach, Chuck Evert sleeve.’ Hustad rolled out, threw it to Freeman and put us ahead 34-26.

Hustad intercepted a pass on second down to wrap up the win.”

“Evert and I talked about going for two. We had practiced the fake kick with Hustad as the holder and we were going to throw it to Freeman, so we decided to go for it. Oats Legrand was announcing the game and we heard the tape later and he was saying ‘I don’t know what they’re going to do but Hustad is holding and I know Tony well enough to know he’s got something up his

The Battlers returned to the state title game in 1977 and again won in overtime, this time beating Henderson 21-20 in one overtime. A third trip to the state title game ended with a 15-14 loss to Alden-Conger in 1978. A loss that Thiel blames on his coaching and still says it’s the worst loss of his career. His son Tony was a member of that team. Thiel says coaching his son was one of the highlights of his years as a head coach. “I liked it a lot, but I don’t know if he liked it so much. Honestly, he was a very good athlete. His best sport was probably basketball, he was a good shooter. In baseball, Dick Buntje was his coach and Tony pitched for him. I always loved to see

my former players go into coaching and teaching. It’s the greatest feeling in the world to see them have success in that career. Now I’m enjoying watching my grandson Carter play at MSUM.”

Lake enjoyed all those seasons. He allowed me to work with the offense and he worked with the defense, especially his patented 5-3 defense. It was a lot of fun all those years for me being his assistant.”

Craig Anderson and running back Randy Bjorklund, along with Tony’s son Tony, Jr. were among the former players who followed Thiel’s path, becoming teachers and football coaches.

“Chuck was a damn good coach,” noted Thiel. “You know he farmed and he would sit on the tractor all day and run plays in his head. He was always coming up with new plays. He was quite creative. When we joined with Henning and became Otter Tail Central I was the head coach, Chuck was the offensive coordinator, and Don Seipkes was the defensive coordinator. The first game of the consolidation Breckenridge beat us. That was my last year coaching. Chuck came in and was head coach one year before taking the AD and Assistant Principal position at Pelican Rapids, then Seipkes

Chuck Evert, who coached alongside Thiel for many years has high praise for the Hall of Fame coach, “Tony had the respect of his players and was a great motivator. Those would be two things about him that made him a successful coach. He was also good at delegating responsibility so he always made us feel that we were a part of the success Battle

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016 SPORTS VIEW 43

Tony Thiel

took over and coached through last season.”

One of the most successful players at the college level from Battle Lake was Ross Ukkelberg. A 1984 graduate, Ukkelberg played for the University of Minnesota. He was one of those unique student-athletes who come along once in a coaching career and Thiel used him in several different roles.

“Ross was 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds as a sophomore,” recalled Thiel.

“Chuck and I talked about him and Chuck said we should make an end out of him. I decided we’d make a

by Craig Olson • Photos provided by Tony Thiel

tackle out of him because we had a good running back and we ran off tackle all season. His junior year I listened to Chuck and we made him an end. He caught the ball real well and was hard to cover. His senior year I decided to play him at fullback. He was 6-foot-7 and 235 pounds then. It didn’t matter where we played him he made a difference. The U of M had Lou Holtz as their head coach at the time and I think he was one of the best football coaches around. They offered him a full ride and they wanted to use him as a pulling guard because of his speed and athletic ability. He was a special player.”

44 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Ukkelberg had this to say about Thiel, “He was the guy. We’d run through a brick wall for him. He yelled and screamed, but he got results. He was very black and white and always told it like it was. He was my number one coach at any level.

I just wanted to play well for him.”

When Tony was driving bus while in college, Janice was riding his bus. He asked her out, took her to a movie, The Bridge Over the River Kwai, and won her heart. They’ve been married for 58 years. The Thiels had four kids, all of whom went into education. Shari was a math teacher at Big Lake, now retired. Judy is the

Human Resources Director at Alexandria High School and Edie is an English teacher at Davies High School in Fargo. Tony, Jr. coached football and baseball in Wheaton for 19 years. They also have four grandsons and one granddaughter.

“I had a good time coaching and teaching,” added Thiel. “I loved every minute of it. Personally, I think if you’re going to be a head coach and a teacher you have to have a good wife behind you, because it’s a lot of hours and a lot of time spent away from family.”

Scholar Athlete > ALEXANDRIA

CARDINALS

McKenzie Revering Soccer - hockey - softball Nickname: Rev or Krev Grade Point Average: 3.62 Favorite School Subjects: English Notable Academic Accomplishment: National Honor Society, Gold Academic Achievements for Sports

Groups and Organizations: A-Club I Root For: UMD Bulldogs Pets: Dog - Bauer In Ten Years...I’ll Be: English or Gym Teacher

Hunter Kjelshus

Perham > Cross Country Hunter Kjelshus, a senior at Perham High School, is ranked ninth individually in the 2016 pre-season Minnesota boys cross country poll. The Yellowjacket boys team is the top ranked team in the Class A poll heading into the 2016 season.

They are also ranked number three in the nation in Division II cross country.

Last fall, Kjelshus finished sixth individually and Perham was second as a team at the state cross country meet.

Andrew VanErp

battle lake > football Andrew VanErp, a 2016 Battle Lake High School graduate, participated in the Minnesota Football Coaches Association All-Star Football Game held on June 25 at Husky Stadium on the campus of St. Cloud State University. VanErp (5-11, 170) was a member of the North Squad which defeated the South team by the score of 38-19. Andrew, who was selected to the team as a defensive back, made six tackles for the North. He is attending St. John’s University and will be a wide receiver for the Johnnies.

brynnan covington

perham > cross country Perham senior Brynnan Covington is ranked ninth in the Class A individual cross country rankings and the Yellowjackets are the top ranked team in the state and number one in the nation heading into the 2016 season. Covington finished fourth in the state as a junior and Perham won the Class A team championship last fall. She also broke her own 2 mile time trial course record by 13 seconds at the annual 2 mile time trial event on August 20.

Joel King

Fergus Falls > football Fergus Falls graduate (2016) Joel King played for the North in the Minnesota Football Coaches Association All-Star Football Game this past June at Husky Stadium on the campus of St. Cloud State University. King, who will be attending Concordia College in Moorhead where he will be an offensive lineman, played on the defensive line in the All-Star game as the North beat the South 38-19. King recorded a pair of tackles in the contest.

Bethany Wach

ASHBY > Tae Kwon do Ashby High School junior Bethany Wach from Dalton has had an interesting summer. Wach, who has been a Tae Kwon Do student since she was three years old, brought home a silver medal in the World Class Black Belt Division at the National USAT Tae Kwon Do Championship in Richmond, VA on July 10, qualifying to compete in the 2016 USAT Team Trials in Colorado Springs, CO for an opportunity to make the national team.

Eric Amundson

ASHBY > trapshooting Ashby’s Eric Amundson shot in the Minnesota State High School League Clay Target individual state tournament at the Minneapolis Gun Club in June.

Amundson, who graduated from Ashby High School in May, qualified for the event by finishing inside the top 100 in the state for season average with a 23.5.

Amundson tied for 26th in the competition after powdering 94 targets.

46 SPORTS VIEW SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2016

Scholar Athlete > WEST CENTRAL

KNIGHTS

Drake Swanson cross country - wrestling Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 3.970 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society, FCA, Knowledge Bowl Notable Academic Accomplishment: PSEO Student

Pets: Dogs - Buster and Hugo I Root For: Vikings In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Working as an engineer, but I have no idea where.

Scholar Athlete > battle lake

battlers

Morgan Klintworth Volleyball - basketball - golf Nickname: Morgy Favorite School Subject: History Grade Point Average: 3.98 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society, Student Council, Interact

I Root For: Team USA Notable Academic Accomplishment: First in Class Pets: Dog named Buck Where Do You See Yourself in Ten Years: Hopefully will have a job I love and starting a family.