Bison Illustrated December 2013

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DECEMBER 2013

RESPECT THE SEATS Notable Bison athletes understand the significance of the 12th man and how it translates to success on the field.

contents DECEMBER 2013 | VOLUME 8 ISSUE 5

12

RESPECT THE SEATS

The FargoDome is loud. Learn how to use it to your advantage on gameday to help the Bison continue on their path to Frisco.

26 14 READY TO MAKE THEIR RUN

An inside look behind the No. 1 ranked team in the Summit League this season.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Erv Inniger, the winningest men’s basketball coach in Bison history, certainly hasn’t slowed down.

Spotlight Media LLC.

PRESIDENT

Mike Dragosavich

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR ART DIRECTOR EDITOR

BRING IT ON! NDSU STYLE

The men and women of the cheer team give perspective on what it takes to be a Bison cheerleader.

Andrew Jason Andy Neidt Joe Kerlin

DESIGN/LAYOUT

George Stack, Andy Neidt, Sydney Schermerhorn, Sarah Geiger

RESEARCHERS/ CONTRIBUTORS

Josh Swanson, Steve Walker, Joe Kerlin, Madalyn Laske, Ken Zetocha

COPY EDITORS

Andrew Jason, Candice Grimm, Joe Kerlin, Josie Eyers, Madalyn Laske, Sarah Tyre, Meagan Pittelko, Norah Kolberg

SALES MANAGER MARKETING/SALES

Brent Tehven Paul Hoefer Tracy Nicholson, Dennis Britton, Bethany Newgard, Paul Bougie

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Seth Holden

WEBSITE/SOCIAL MEDIA

Jake Schaffer, Erica Kale

PHOTOGRAPHY

60 An ode to all 24 seniors of the back-to-back National Championship football team.

PUBLISHER

GENERAL MANAGER

32 THANK YOU SENIORS

Bison Illustrated is a free publication distributed monthly (9 times a year).

Our mission is to help promote North Dakota State University Athletics, provide a quality and fun reading experience and to improve the way of life in our community. The publication is mailed to homes across the US and has stand distribution throughout North Dakota and Minnesota.

J. Alan Paul Photography, NDSU Athletics

ADMINISTRATION

Erika Olson

SPECIAL THANKS

Ryan Perreault, Wes Offerman, Ryan Anderson, NDSU Athletic Media Relations, Colle en Heimstead, IU Archive

DELIVERY

Codey Bernier, Chris Larson, George Stack, Matt Johnson

FOR ADVERTISING CALL 701-478-SPOT (7768) or Email info@fmspotlight.com

more 58 The Wolfpack 68 Swany Says 70 Bison Crossing 6

72 Walker’s Words 74 Team Makers 76 Pop Quiz

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DE C E M BE R 2 013

Bison Illustrated is published monthly by Spotlight Media LLC. Print quantity exceeds 15,000 per issue. Printed in the U.S.A. Bison Illustrated does not necessarily endorse or agree with content of articles or advertising presented. Bison Illustrated assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Bison Illustrated is NOT an official publication of North Dakota State University.

Send change of address information and other correspondence to: Spotlight Media LLC. 502 1st Ave N. First Floor Fargo ND, 58102 or info@fmspotlight.com

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Insight, Idea, Impact.

Seniors!

Mike Dragosavich Publisher, Bison Illustrated drago@fmspotlight.com

Download the Bison Illustrated App.

Search “NDSU” or “Bison Illustrated” on any device in the app stores.

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DE C E M BE R 2 013

When putting this issue together we wanted to dedicate some space to a unique group of senior athletes with a unique situation. Every year there are many seniors that move on to the real world, but this year has been special because of the volume and success. To me, my senior year at NDSU was both the best and worst year of my collegiate career. The best in the fact that I was at a point where my major was completed and my main courses were rock climbing and billiards, along with having the confidence with my athletic performance that only comes with experience. It was the worst in the fact that I had a punt block and another punt returned for a touchdown against South Dakota State in my last game (which we also lost!), and really the worst because it was all over. I will say I don’t feel that bad about the football seniors being almost finished, considering they have won championships! I’m not bitter... Wait, maybe a little.

Your Turn: 1. Now it’s up to us alumni and fans to figure out how to help these seniors get to the next level. If you or someone you know owns a business and has employment needs, reach out to myself or NDSU, and find out how you can be on the list for employers to help these seniors.

2. There are a couple of ways to get involved. Become involved with the Team Makers for as little as $100 a month. (Don't get me wrong though, you can always help out more.) Another way is the NDSU Development Foundation.

They can help create an endowment or a scholarship that can last for a lifetime.

Charity

I have had a rude awakening lately from my experiences with donating auction items to local benefits. This has motivated me to put into place a new concept with the help of some influential friends in the community. The technical details are yet to be determined, but I think I can tease you with the concept of what I want to create.

The Problem: I have been to over a dozen fundraisers for charity this fall. Some have incredible support and donations, while others lack resources and items to raise money. The real problem is a majority of these events, including the ones that hit home the most and aren’t as nationally recognized have really lackluster auction items. Most items only go for $20 or $30. I think there is room for improvement.

The Solution: Facilitate a project for anyone, organization or group to donate nonpractice items to allow for auctions. This project will basically act as a “trash to charity treasure” concept.

The Reality: I have already completed the first phase of this project and by the time you read this the second phase will be full speed ahead.

Your Turn: Now I urge you that if you share the same mindset, or if you have something that you would like to donate to the auction chest please let me know. I will be glad to share with you the further details.

3 Things Worth Sharing.

One Herd

A new project that I started in conjunction with Bison Illustrated is Oneherd.com and the brand “One Herd.” The idea was to start an e-commerce store for readers outside of Fargo to buy a subscription to Bison Illustrated. We then put the site together and realized why not provide these Bison fans all over the world with access to gear and merchandise. So we designed and gained official licensing through NDSU and the NCAA and created over 100 Bison shirts, hats, hoodies, accessories and more.

The Culture: We wanted the clothing and merchandise to mean more than cotton and plastic with a logo. So we created One Herd around the mentality that we are all in it together.

We’re all one unified herd. No matter what, we have each others back. So to expand on that concept we took an oath to donate $1 of every product sold to charity.

The Future: We hope that we take this charity aspect and make it bigger than we could of imagined. Some ideas are to find businesses and organizations to match $1 sold for a “sponsored item” of their choice. I can keep going about more options to grow the impact of this but I think you get the point.

Your Turn: Head to oneherd.com and check it out.

Any correspondence for the charity aspect goes directly to myself and I would love to discuss options.

Go Bison

Class of 2008,

Drago

FROM THE EDITOR

Seniors are looked upon to be the leaders both on and off the field. It’s amazing how this group of football players has come together to do just that.

Joe Kerlin

My top five signs

Editor, Bison Illustrated C O N TA C T M E joe@bisonillustrated.com

@j_kerlin

@bisonmag

facebook.com/bisonillustrated

For me, every month is a scramble

between preparation, collaboration and decision-making. Sometimes it’s easy to get lost in the whirlwind of projects and stories. But something was different about this month. I was reminded of the importance of reflection.

I have always been a motivated person who spends time moving forward through life, not allowing myself to look at the rear-view mirror while staying focused on the task at hand.

However, bringing together this month’s issue, I couldn’t help looking back at the remarkable careers of these seniors on the football team.

While I was reflecting (probably a little too much for our editorial director’s liking), I realized the unbelievable paths some of the seniors have taken to bring them to where they are now.

Take Bryan Shepherd for example. He is one of the fastest players on the Bison defense, and his career was almost taken out right underneath him while he was in Omaha. After a remarkable freshman season, the University of NebraskaOmaha dissolved its football program, leaving Shepherd without a team. That’s when Craig Bohl and the Bison welcomed Shepherd with open arms.

What about Derrick Lang? All Lang wanted was a chance to play Division I football when he came to Fargo. Lang walked on to the Bison program before earning a scholarship.

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DE C E M BE R 2 013

MEET THE TEAM

A Class to Be Remembered

MIKE

After sitting out his freshman year, Lang got his opportunity to make plays on special teams and is now picking up key first downs as a running back.

Meagan

Amazing stories like these are everywhere within the senior roster.

Two championships and three conference titles later give me enough confidence to bet my life that every senior on this team would tell you they made the right decision when picking NDSU.

Bethany

Who knows when the run will be over? Whether or not it ends with the icing on the cake in January, we can truly appreciate the success this class has brought to the Bison program.

Thank you, seniors. And I speak for the entire fan base when I say, thanks for the memories.

Jesse

Go Bison,

Joe Kerlin Correction In our September Bison Illustrated magazine we incorrectly credited a photo in our Homecoming article on page 64.

The Homecoming photo should have been credited to Bruce Crummy Photography.

PAUL

Brent

Andy

Andrew

Joe

norah

Erica

Jake

jessica

Josie

Sydney

Tracy

Seth

sarah

sarah

Candice

Erika

ben

Dennis

madalyn

Michael

GEorGE

RESPECT THE Grant Olson Defense Senior linebacker Grant Olson understands the importance of the pandemonium created by the FargoDome crowd. Here are some tips for helping create an atmosphere to show the visiting team whose house they’re in.

First down: Start the drive out right, show off those lungs.

Third down: This is your time to shine. Let it rip.

Goal Line Stand: This is when the 12th man becomes part of the team.

Fast FargoDome Facts 14

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

Bleacher Report ranked the FargoDome as the second loudest indoor stadium in college football behind the Carrier Dome (Syracuse).

SEATS

Bison players realize the importance of the 12th man. They need the fans wild and ready to go for the last chapter of their season.

Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography

Brock Jensen Offense Senior quarterback Brock Jensen needs your help on the offensive side of the ball too. As fans, you need to understand the appropriate times to save your vocal cords and when to scream at the top of your lungs.

Save your voice: Rest those vocal cords when the offense takes over.

Celebrate timely: First downs are good but touchdowns are better. Save it for six points.

Go NUTS! : You don’t need us to tell you what to do when the Bison score.

In six regular season games this season, the FargoDome has averaged 18,705 fans.

The FargoDome’s record attendance was set last season at 19,065 against Youngstown State.

Last season’s semifinal against Georgia Southern is known as the loudest game in NDSU history with decibels reaching well past the 111 mark.

The FargoDome is lovingly nicknamed the “Thunderdome.”

15

READY TO MAKE THEIR RUN These six seniors are hoping to make history as the second men’s basketball team to make it to the NCAA tournament in March.

Photos By J. Alan Paul Photography

3 MIKE

FELT THE FELT FILE

• Scored a career-high 24 points vs.

Youngstown State, Nov. 19, 2012 • Played his 100th game against Viterbo, Nov. 8, 2013 • Entered the season 57 three pointers shy of the school record (257)

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24 TAYLOR

BRAUN

THE BRAUN FILE • Awarded the 2013 Preseason Summit League Player of the Year • Back-to-back leading scorer for the Bison • Needs to average 13.6 points during the 30 regular season games to crack the Bison’s top-10 all-time scoring list

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

32 TRAYVONN

WRIGHT

THE WRIGHT FILE • Ranks third all-time in Bison history with 120 blocked shots • Recorded 61 blocked shots last season, second most all-time in Bison history • Entering this season, he is 244 points away from cracking the 1,000 point club

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

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42 MARSHALL

BJORKLUND

THE BJORKLUND FILE • Entered this season as all-time field goal percentage leader at 66.3 percent • Scored a career-high 27 points against Fresno State, Nov. 26, 2011 • Finished second in the country in field goal percentage at 67 percent last season

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0 FRED

NEWELL

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

THE NEWELL FILE • Walked onto the Bison program in 2009 • Played 39 games for the Bison entering this season • Credited with the development of many young Bison players

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44 JORDAN

AABERG

THE AABERG FILE • Tallest member of the team at a towering 6’9” • Has played in 82 games for the Bison entering this season • Scored a career-high 15 points against South Dakota, Jan. 14, 2012

*To read more about the basketball team, check out bisonillustrated.com

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

ERV INNIGER Erv Inniger coached 13

straight winning seasons at NDSU and played professional basketball for the Minnesota Muskies from 1967-1968 and the Miami Floridians from 1968-1969.

By Madalyn Laske Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography and courtesy of NDSU Athletics and IU University

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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? NOT MANY PEOPLE CAN CHANGE SOMEONE’S DAY FOR THE BETTER, let alone their life.

Erv Inniger is one of these people. With 244 wins in his Bison coaching career between 1978 and 1992, Inniger is the most successful coach in NDSU men’s basketball history. Nearly 21 years after coaching his final game, he walks in faith with wife Linda.

BACK ON THE SIDELINES The words “Erv Inniger” and “novice” could be considered oxymorons in most cases, especially when it comes to basketball. Nevertheless, at 68 years old, Inniger is doing something he’s never done. Reluctant at first, Inniger was offered to coach the boys’ basketball team for Park Christian High School in Moorhead and to pray about the decision. He said he responded with a laugh and a “I’m not praying real hard!”

After an interview, a tour around the school and Linda’s approval, Inniger changed his mind. “I really do feel I had no ambition to coach,” Inniger said. “Why would I want to do it after 21 years?…but I really believe the Holy Spirit totally pushed me into this thing.”

The high school scene is all new to Inniger. Getting used to parent involvement and the copious amounts of high school activities were one thing, but his intense coaching style is another.

That’s when Inniger received a call from one of his former players: Bart Inniger, his son. “He called me and said, ‘If you were coaching at a public school, they’d fire you in the first half hour. You need to ramp it back a little bit,’” Inniger said.

In addition to the counseling from his son, who coaches in Minneapolis, Inniger happened upon advice from a high school coach from his native state, Indiana.

Inniger took this as a sign.

“There were just a lot of things that were lining up,” Inniger said. “I mean, I go to the Final Four, I sit next to a basketball coach in Indiana...and he had won two state championships.

I said, ‘Okay, well tell me about the high school stuff,’ so I really quizzed him about things.”

Linda had concerns of her husband coaching, just as her son did, but for health reasons. In August 2012, Inniger suffered a heart attack and

she feared going back to the sidelines would be a hindrance to his health.

“I’m concerned because I know how he coaches,” Linda said. “(Park Christian) said he can take a couple days off of practice to relax if he needs, and I said, ‘Hmm, you don’t know him. He’s not taking any days off practice, he’ll crawl into practice if he has to.’”

TWO PEAS IN A POD The Innigers’ philosophy is to approach each day with a strong Christian faith and choose to look at each day with a positive attitude.

Linda was diagnosed with stage-four non-Hodgkins-lymphoma in 2010.

With her husband and with positivity and faith, Linda battled through the cancer and overcame it.

“We’ve never dwelled on it,” Inniger said. “I can remember coming back after we found out she had cancer. We were both in tears and

29

ERV INNIGER

said, ‘Okay, well here starts the fight. We’re both in this together.’ I think you got to look at life that way.

Everybody has tough times. Our tendency is to study things that are positive, be positive.”

Linda is now cancer-free and is feeling great. “God is good,” she said.

Fate led to the two of them being setup on a blind date 45 years ago. Inniger was playing professional basketball in Minneapolis, Linda was an airline stewardess for Northwest Airlines. They have been together ever since.

With every decision Inniger makes, Linda is there with him. When he accepted a job at NDSU and they had to move from Minneapolis, Linda supported it. When Inniger had to travel on the road for coaching, Linda went with him when she could.

“I couldn’t have done the things I’ve done without her,” Inniger said. “She’s one of the most Godly women I’ve known... She made a lot of sacrifices. She has been a real blessing to me.”

VISIBLE WITHIN THE COMMUNITY Something that Inniger and Linda like to do together is get involved with charity. Linda is currently on the board of the United Methodist Church Foundation. Inniger was on the board of the Salvation Army for 12 years, helped with the United Way and was a consultant at T.N.T. Kid’s Fitness and Gymnastics.

This summer, they both helped Hospice of the Red River Valley raise $20,000 in two hours. To add to their long rap sheets, Inniger and Linda both got involved in charities that hit close to home. Linda has been involved with Sanford and the fight against cancer while Inniger was majorly involved in the Heart Association, even lobbying for them after his heart-attack.

Inniger (second row, third on the left, number 42) was the captain of the 1967 university of Indiana Big Ten championship team.

“The Heart Association along with Hospice of the Red River Valley were major things in our lives,” Inniger said. “We’ve been able to give back to the community, and that’s always been our philosophy.”

ERV INNIGER

Inniger has run more than 10,000 kids through basketball camps and still hears from past players today.

“I’ve had a lot of basketball players call later in life and say, ‘Coach, I didn’t like you at all when you were coaching, but now I see what you were trying to do,’” Inniger said. “It moves you, it really does. You never know who you are going to touch.”

Inniger may have left NDSU over two decades ago, but his impact can still be heard ringing through the campus. He was the leader on a fundraising team responsible for Newman Outdoor Field, the Bison Sports Arena and helped raise over $30 million for the University.

Inniger has a way with people and he continues to inspire people today through motivational speaking.

“It’s just a matter of life is great,” Inniger said.

“You can moan about things, you can cry about things and a lot of people like to watch and see how you are going to handle those things. Visualize people at their highest potential. If I visualize you at your highest potential and try to help you get there, guess what? I’ve added to my life, too.”

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PAVING THE WAY TO A PARK CHRISTIAN LEGACY Agreeing only to coach for one year, Inniger is mentoring Josh Lee to take over the team next year.

"There is endless information that I've got from him, lessons learned," Lee said about Inniger. "The biggest things I've learned haven't even been basketball-related.

They've been living out life for the Lord and how to carry myself. More life skills, life lessons than anything he's taught me in basketball. But in basketball he's taught me an abundance as well... it's been amazing."

Inniger impacts everyone he meets and everything he does. He has a habit of leaving things better than how he found them.

“I hope that when I leave there that we can leave the work ethic and leave something that they can really build on no matter what happens this year… I think sometimes the expectation of me is because, ‘Oh, he coached college,’ they think, ‘Oh boy, he’s a big deal.’ There’s no big deal, at all. Is there, dear?” Inniger looks to his wife, “No,” she replies with a laugh.

"The biggest things I've learned (from Inniger) haven't even been basketballrelated.

They've been living out life for the Lord and how to carry myself.”

- Josh Lee

Arlan & Karla Swenson Moorhead MN Call for Appointment 218-236-4813 www.nwblinds.com

SENIORS

Thank You E

very year the football program looks to its seniors for leadership and camaraderie. That relationship between the seniors and the rest of the team is so deep, Zach Vraa can’t even catch up to it. It’s unlikely a group of men from all around the country could have the ability to come together and create another dynasty at NDSU. But then you notice the passion that flows from each player while on the field, their willingness to fight for not just their personal glory, but greatness for their unit, their team. For this group of seniors, it’s not the 40+ wins or the stats that matter, but rather the rings, the brotherhood and the flights to Frisco.

With their college days nearing the end, we sat down with all 24 seniors to reflect their amazing careers.

Article by: Joe Kerlin, Andrew Jason, Candice Grimm and Madalyn Laske

*You can check out the full-length interviews at bisonillustrated.com.

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CL_NFL_Kick Off_4-75x4-75_10468-8 JC.indd 1

10/11/13 3:38 PM

12

Cooper Wahlo Jr.

Position: Wide Receiver Hometown: Woodbury, Minn.

High School: Woodbury High School Bio: After battling an injury that cut his junior season short, Wahlo has pushed himself to become one of the hardest workers on the team. Wahlo hauled in his first receiving touchdown against Delaware State early this season.

*Missouri Valley Football Conference Commissioner’s Academic Excellence Award *Missouri Valley Conference Honor Roll What is the most helpful thing this class will pass down to future classes?

“Just showing the young guys the hard work. If you want to be on top, you gotta work. There are no short cuts. I feel like this senior class and what we have been through — we have been blessed with our hardwork mentality and giving it to the young guys.”

AJ Van Voorhis

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

Position: Defensive Back Hometown: Champlin, Minn.

High School: Champlin Park High School Bio: With over 50 games of experience, the strong safety is the captain of the “Special Forces.” Van Voorhis has nestled into becoming a reliable performer in the secondary and has unparalleled closing speed to bring down kick and punt returners.

How has this class shaped the culture of the program?

“I think that this class has set a good example on how to bring the team and people together. There’s not a lot of separation.

We’re pretty welcoming. In the past, there was some separation, the freshmen kind of kept to themselves and the seniors — you just kind of looked up to them, you didn’t really say much, but I feel like there’s a really interactive locker room.”

1

Marcus Williams

How has this class impacted the program?

“Just from the transition we made, and switching things around. We couldn’t ask for better leaders who were here before us, and now we took on that role, leading the younger players. We’re just trying to keep this program on track.”

Position: Defensive Back Hometown: Minneapolis, Minn.

High School: Hopkins High School Bio: Coming in as a freshman, Williams was a speedy cornerback who evolved into a prolific lockdown corner. Williams fought through a broken hand and a knee injury that plagued his senior season, but it hasn’t stopped him from intercepting more passes than any defender in Bison history. *2012 American Football Coaches Association FCS All-America Team *2011, 2012 Associated Press FCS All-America First Team *2012 Missouri Valley Football Conference Defensive Player of the Year *2011, 2012 College Sporting News FCS Fabulous 50 *2010 MVFC All-Newcomer Team 37

2 Brendin Pierre Position: Defensive Back Hometown: Miramar, Fla. High School: Miramar High School

What makes this group of guys different than any other you have been around?

“When I was in high school, I played with a team of people that were individuals. Everyone was trying to get their own. Their own stats, their own piece of the pie. This team, everyone makes sacrifices for one another. It’s not about who’s the guy, who’s the glamorous person on TV. We all love each other and we all play for one another.”

Position: Defensive Tackle Hometown: Fargo, N.D. High School: Fargo South High School Bio: Luecke has really come into his role this season. While being a leader off the field, Luecke has had his best season on the field.

The Fargo native is a strong physical player who has become a valuable asset to the Bison defense.

Bio: Undersized and undervalued, Pierre came to NDSU and immediately made an enormous impact on the defense. Pierre has played a valuable role both on the scout team and on the field during NDSU’s back-to-back championship runs.

Danny Luecke

*MVFC Commissioner’s Academic Excellence Award *Missouri Valley Football Conference Honor Roll

What’s something that’s unique about this class?

“The front row of the team room is where all the seniors get to sit. I think we all put other people in front of ourselves on this team, and that’s something I’ll take away. It’s not fighting to see who can get in that front row to be closest, it’s, ‘Hey, no, I’ll let my other teammate sit here.’ ... we’ve always put each other before ourselves.””

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

94

Position: Quarterback Hometown: Waupaca, Wis. High School: Waupaca High School

Brock Jensen

16

Bio: The man, the myth and the legend is the leader to the Bison’s unstoppable offense. Earning the starting quarterback position during his freshman season, Jensen has made his way into the record books in multiple statistical categories. *2012 NCAA FCS National Championship MVP *2012 College Sporting News FCS Playoff MVP *2012 All-Missouri Valley Football Conference Second Team

Why is this team so good when facing adversity?

“We’re the type of program that has that mentality. ...The next guy has to make a play, the next guy has to step into that role and be able to get it done, because that’s what good programs do. That’s what we have done. Last year with Colten’s injury, it was the just the next-guy-up mentality and we have to keep it that way because in order to keep winning, you have to think about it that way.”

39

22

Sam Ojuri

Position: Running Back Hometown: Barrington, Ill. High School: Barrington High School Bio: Need to convert a 4th down? Ojuri is your guy. Not many running backs can pound through the pile and still manage to gain yards quite like Ojuri. Splitting series the last two seasons with John Crockett, the relentless running-back has over 3,000 career rushing yards. *2011, 2012 CollegeFootballPerformance.com Running Back Watch List

What does Bison Pride mean to you?

“Bison Pride means the team, the team, the team. The team is way more important than yourself and it’s more about your decisions and how they’re going to affect the team — how everyone does their job, and you have to do your job. That’s Bison Pride to me.”

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

Position: Defensive Tackle Hometown: Gwinner, N.D. High School: North Sargent High School Bio: A main component in the Bison’s defensive line, Drevlow is one of the most skilled nose guards in the FCS. Hailing from Gwinner, N.D., Drevlow has solidified himself as a force at the line of scrimmage, tallying over 50 games in his career.

Ryan Drevlow

60

*2012 FCS Athletic Directors Academic All-Star *2012 Capital One Academic All-District 6 Team *Nominated for NCAA Elite 89 Academic Award/2012 FCS Championship *Missouri Valley Football Conference Commissioner’s Academic Excellence Award

What is it like to play for your home state’s team?

“It’s meant a lot. It’s always been my dream to play football for the Bison. To live it out is unreal. It’s something that you only dream about.”

41

When did you realize Bison Pride meant everything?

“It was probably my first game I got to play, which was (against) Kansas four years ago. After that game, in the locker room, obviously it was a big game, but the pride that senior class had from winning that game was pretty neat. Sometimes it’s hard to get excited about that, but that locker room after that game was really happy.”

40 Andrew Grothmann Position: Fullback Hometown: Hillsboro, N.D. High School: Hillsboro High School Bio: Grothmann paved the road for two running backs to rush over 1,000 yards last season. Grothmann has played over 50 games at full-back, has blocked relentlessly for two FCS Championship teams and continues to create space in the backfield, playing a key role in the Bison’s offense.

*2011, 2012 Missouri Valley Football Conference All-Academic Honorable Mention *Missouri Valley Football Conference Commissioner’s Academic Excellence Award *Missouri Valley Football Conference Honor Roll 42

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Position: Linebacker Hometown: Plymouth, Minn.

High School: Wayzata High School

*2012 College Sporting News FCS Fabulous 50 *2012 College Sports Journal FCS All-America Honorable Mention *2012 All-Missouri Valley Football Conference First Team *2012 CollegeFootballPerformance.com FCS Playoffs Weekly Award

Bio: The glue of the Bison defense has developed into one of the most valuable linebackers in the FCS. Each season, Olson outperforms himself and continues to impress from game to game, proving his title as the leader of the Bison defense.

34 Grant Olson

What is your favorite memory you have made with your teammates?

“When I think back on the senior guys, it’s not a memory of one or two guys. All the fond memories seem to be together in big groups. There always seems to be five to 10 of us hanging out. It’s always a lot of us and we’re always having fun together.”

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Bryan Shepherd Position: Defensive Back Hometown: Olathe, Kan. High School: North High School Bio: Since recovering from a serious injury last season, Shepherd has become a main component in the Bison’s defensive backfield.

The University of Nebraska-Omaha transfer made his presence known with his big hits on special teams and defense.

How did the NDSU coaches make you a better player?

“Coach Klieman made a huge difference. I love that guy. He really brought out the love of the game for me even more. I always loved the game, but he really got everything out of me. He made me understand the game a lot more and made me a much better football player. He’s the best coach, I’d like to say.”

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24

Antonio Rodgers Photo by Dennis Hubbard/NDSU Athletics What is your relationship with your teammates like?

“We have a bond that is unbreakable, I think from being together so long. You can always count on these guys. After we finish it’s going to be a lifelong friendship.”

Position: Linebacker Hometown: North Miami Beach, Fla. High School: North Miami Beach High School

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Bio: Finding a home in special teams, the West Hills College (Calif.) transfer played all 15 games on special teams as linebacker after working hard to pick up the stingy Bison defensive system.

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BILLY TURNER

What do the relationships you have built here mean to you?

“Probably that the last four and a half years, the fun that I’ve had and the relationships that I’ve grown to have with a lot of guys on the team is something that has definitely shaped me as a man and is something that I’ll never forget. ... I got nothing but love for everyone.”

Position: Offensive Tackle Hometown: Shoreview, Minn.

High School: Mounds View High School Bio: Since his freshman year, Turner has been starting on the offensive line. His athleticism continues to impress spectators each time he steps on the field. Need to pick up a first down? Run through Turner because you can count on him to create running lanes for the runningback. Sometimes blocking two guys at once, Turner is a big reason Jensen has enough time to throw accurately and patiently from inside the pocket, and Ojuri and Crockett can run for over 1,000 yards.

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*2012 Sports Network FCS All-America First Team *2012 Associated Press FCS All-America Team *2012 Walter Camp FCS All-America Team *2012 All-Missouri Valley Football Conference First Team B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DE C E M BE R 2 013

Position: Defensive Tackle Hometown: Cottage Grove, Minn.

High School: St. Agnes High School Bio: Perry has been an unstoppable force at nose tackle for the Bison since the first time he stepped on the field. Perry overcame a significant knee injury last season and isn’t taking a play for granted this season, playing arguably the best football of his career. *2012 All-Missouri Valley Football Conference Second Team *2010 Missouri Valley Football Conference All-Newcomer Team

69 Leevon Perry

What does Bison Pride mean to you?

“It’s family. You work towards everything together and through those hard times — summer and winter where you have conditioning and are dying. You lean on the other teammates to get you through it.”

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Position: Wide Receiver Hometown: Wahpeton, N.D. High School: Wahpeton High School Bio: One of the most explosive players on the Bison offense wasn’t always split-out wide-right. Smith entered the program as a game-changing running back from Wahpeton. After his freshman year, Smith found a home with the wide receivers while becoming a nightmare to contain on special teams. *2011, 2012 All-Missouri Valley Football Conference Second Team

What has it meant to you growing up in North Dakota, and playing for NDSU? “I was a Bison fan my whole life. I was even a ball boy back in the day. It meant the world to me when Coach Bohl gave me that call and offered for me to play here. It was a surreal moment. Just being close to home and having my family close to me has been awesome.”

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Ryan Smith

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74 Andrew Nack

Photo by NDSU Athletics

What will you say to the rest of the senior class after your last game?

“Thanking them for the opportunity to go out and play the sport we all love with one another — that camaraderie. And thanking them for accepting a guy from small town Minnesota and just how close we’ve all gotten.”

Position: Offensive Lineman Hometown: Osakis, Minn.

High School: Osakis High School Bio: As one of the most hard-working and blue collar players on the team, Nack has been what the football program is all about. Not only is Nack a hard worker on the practice field, Nack gets it done in the classroom, too. *Missouri Valley Football Conference Honor Roll

Position: Defensive/Offensive Line Hometown: Mahnomen, Minn.

High School: Mahnomen High School Bio: Unlike most of the senior class, LaVoy wasn’t handed a scholarship right out of high school. The versatile offensive and defensive lineman worked his way slowly into the program, spending a season at Bemidji State. LaVoy played in key situations during the 2012 playoff run.

You went from offense to defense. Tell us about that challenge.

“I just wanted to do what was going to help the team out the most. I understand that at defense we were very deep and we had a lot of guys that were capable of doing great things over there. I didn’t even really think twice about it.”

63 Anthony LaVoy

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93Cole Jirik What would you like to say to the rest of the seniors?

“Probably just thanks, just for every day. When you’re down one day, there’s someone that’s picking you up, and when they’re down one day, you’re picking them up, and just for helping out and putting all the effort in.”

Position: Defensive End Hometown: Northfield, Minn.

High School: Northfield High School Bio: Jirik continues to be one of the most valuable players on the Bison’s defense. He renews his reliability to be a huge playmaker for the Bison, proving his strength, quickness and technique on every down. *College Football Performace.com Defensive End Watch List 52

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Michael Murphy Position: Long Snapper Hometown: Hollister, Calif.

High School: San Benito High School Bio: The experienced long snapper has one of the most overlooked jobs on the team. Murphy can be counted on to be consistent with his job to set up successful punts, field goals and extra points.

He has played in every game since his arrival and continues to make plays down field.

What surprised you the most about coming to Fargo?

“When I got here I realized the people are a million times nicer here in Fargo than they are out in California. People are very warm, welcoming and they want you to be here. Hearing people say, ‘Oh, you’re the long snapper for the Bison,’ when I don’t even know them... not many teams are lucky to have a fan base like we do.”

85 kevin Vaadeland

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How have you matured as a player in your years here?

“My first year we were 3-8 and this shows that the harder you work, good things can come along with it. That goes along with life, too.”

Position: Tight End Hometown: Park Rapids, Minn.

High School: Park Rapids Area High School Bio: Vaadeland has become one of Jensen’s favorite targets in the end zone this season. The tight end hauled in a huge touchdown in one of the biggest statement wins in NDSU history against Kansas State in the third quarter. *College Football Performance FCS Tight End Watch List *Collegefootball.com Tight End Weekly Award Honorable Mention

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Taylor Nelson Position: Tight End Hometown: Minnetonka, Minn.

High School: Minnetonka High School Bio: Working his way into the tight end rotation, Nelson has been playing in games since his sophomore year. He continues to improve from week to week, proving his reliability.

How did the NDSU coaches make you a better player?

“Coach Klieman made a huge difference. I love that guy. He really brought out the love of the game for me even more. I always loved the game, but he really got everything out of me. He made me understand the game a lot more and made me a much better football player. He’s the best coach, I’d like to say.”

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Jeremy Gordon

How have the coaches helped you?

“It’s like a family. Anything you need, you go to the coaches, talk to them. Also, they are a coach, a friend, father figure. They lead you in the right direction. What they talk about is genuine honesty.”

Position: Defensive End Hometown: Milwaukee, Wis. High School: Riverside University High School

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

Bio: Gordon is defining Bison Pride with every single snap he takes this season. Early in the season, Gordon tore his ACL, but he wasn’t going to let that stop him from finishing his career as a Bison on the field.

Position: Offensive Guard Hometown: Marshall, Minn.

High School: Marshall High School

*Missouri Valley Football Conference Honor Roll

Bio: Gimmestad wasn’t always moving defenders as a part of the “Rams”; he used to be one of the defenders being moved by the “Rams” during practice. Gimmestad switched to the offensive line during the 2011 season and has been opening holes for three 1,000-yard rushers ever since.

71 Tyler Gimmestad

When you came in as a freshman, were you expecting all of this success?

“Probably not, but you’ve got to have high expectations.

I don’t think we thought that we couldn’t do it. Now looking back, we had a bunch of great guys with great chemistry, so I’m not too surprised right now.”

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Position: Running Back Hometown: Wausau, Wis. High School: West High School Bio: The former walk-on has contributed to the program in more ways than one. Backing up Sam Ojuri and John Crockett, Lang has provided relief for the starting running backs with clutch thirddown plays.

What is your fondest memory of this team?

“I would say the summer conditioning when we’re busting our butts and it’s 100 degrees out there. Especially Fridays in July. Fridays in July we’re on Dacotah Field until 8 at night.

That definitely sticks out with the commitment that takes from all of us.”

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

5 Derrick Lang

The Bison defensive backfield is always hungry.

THE

To survive, they prey off of opposing wide receivers, running backs and quarterbacks that dare to test their skill. Individually, they are capable of providing for themselves, but when they are formed as a pack, the opposition doesn’t stand a chance.

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

From Left: Bryan Shepherd, AJ Van Voorhis, Marcus Williams, Christian Dudzik, Brendin Pierre and Colten Heagle

What the heck is the wolf pack?

Christian Dudzik: “The wolf pack identity is a group of guys that have to be the most athletic guys on the team and run to the ball and go get what they want.”

Why did the defensive backs start calling themselves the wolf pack?

Marcus Williams: “We do everything together. We

move together, we eat together, we laugh together and we do everything as one. We’re trying to bring that tradition here with the DBs and it’s worked well for us so far.”

How has Marcus made your job easier as a free safety?

Christian Dudzik: “Marcus makes my job easier because I don’t have to worry about him and help him too much. He helps me by seeing some of the offensive formations."

How has Christian made your job easier as a corner back?

Marcus Williams: “Christian makes my job a lot easier.

We stay in the same apartment complex so if I ever have any questions or if he wants to know anything, we’ll just go to each other and ask. You know you have a bond with a player when during the game you see things and he notices too. I know I can probably jump a certain route because I know Christian will be behind me to help out over the top. And it’s vice versa.”

What has made you one of the most feared group of DBs in the country?

Christian Dudzik: “We have a lot of speed and mostly

pride in our preparation. I don’t think anyone prepares like we do week in and week out, and we just take a lot of pride in what we are trying to accomplish.”

We have noticed some defensive linemen meowing. What’s that all about?

Marcus Williams: “They’re called the alley cats and they

do a little purr thing (laughs). If you ever want to go to war with anyone, it’s the alley cats for sure. It’s fun, just for kicks and giggles, but we know we all have the same goal no matter what position you play on this team and that’s to win.”

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BRING IT on NDSU Style

By Andrew Jason Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography

E

very Saturday during football season this team puts their bodies on the line for the entertainment of thousands of fans. The moves they pull off amaze everyone and keep everyone cheering.

Nope. We’re not talking about the Bison Football team. This is the NDSU Cheer Team.

FAST FACTS • The team is formed of 20 team members, 10 guys and 10 girls.

• The male cheerleaders do push-ups every time the Bison score. When NDSU has scored 50 points, the male cheerleaders have done around 250 push-ups.

• The Cheer Team performs for both football and men’s basketball.

• Most of the cheerleaders participate at home and away football games.

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drya thiesing

Senior alexan Senior David Fa

rrenkopf

Head Coach Verona Winkler

ders

Male Cheerlea

There are 10 male cheerleaders for the Bison.

These men show off an amazing array of athleticism because they are responsible for all of the impressive lifts and stunts they pull off week after week. Senior David Farrenkopf told us what it’s like to be a male cheerleader.

“It’s not as bad as it sounds or looks… once you start doing it, it’s so fun. It’s a great atmosphere. All your teammates are very comforting and help you out all the time.”

The Falls When it’s your job to fly through the air and be lifted to tops of pyramids, it’s inevitable that falls are going to happen. The job is knowing how to handle it when it happens. When a girl falls, it’s usually controlled and no one is hurt. “There’s a difference between dropping and falling. What the crowd might think is ‘Oh my gosh, she fell.’ It’s really controlled. A drop would be that someone hit the ground type of thing and they get hurt. There’s a big difference between falling and dropping,” said senior cheerleader Alexandrya Thiesing.

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

“It’s a great atmosphere.

All your teammates are very comforting

and help you out all the time.”

- David Farrenkopf

Life After Cheerleading Many of the members of the NDSU Cheer Team hope to continue their cheerleading career after college. There are possibilities out there, but it can be difficult. Some options people look into is coaching competitive squads and being a member of the Universal Cheerleaders Association.

Cheerleading in the NFL is more like being on a dance team so that’s something that many college cheerleaders aren’t interested in. “The demand for someone like me who has been doing this since they were very young — your body gives out sooner than somebody who doesn’t… I’d love to coach and bring my expertise to other people. I do want cheerleading to be in my life forever,” said Thiesing.

Running For Your Life At the beginning of home games, the football team comes running out of a giant helmet. This can be a nerve-wracking experience for members of the Cheer Team. If they trip, there will be a team of football players running over them. “I’m the first one out and I’m at a dead sprint. I sometimes worry that because of my really short legs I’m going to trip so I have to step extra high,” said Thiesing.

To read a full interview with Farrenkopf, Thiesing and Head Coach Verona Winkler, go to bisonillustrated.com.

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

Way to go Bison!

Congratulations for making the NCAA playoffs!

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Fast forward 27 years from Triplett’s comments, not even a decade into the Division I move, and another USD head coach was as effusive in his praise as Triplett was in his blunt critique of NDSU’s excellence. Joe Glenn, whose Coyotes were dismantled in the regular season finale 42 – 0 by the Bison, doesn’t see anyone stopping this finely tuned and well oiled machine. “We played eight teams in the top 30 and two of the best in the Big Sky and nobody is close to this team,” Glenn said. “I tell you, they don’t have a weakness. I don’t see anybody stopping this team.” Glenn is as right in 2013 as Triplett was in 1986.

One For The Ages

By Josh Swanson |

T

he stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas! Bison fans will be singing these words, among others, on the evening of Jan. 4, 2014, in Frisco, Texas, after North Dakota State hoists its third consecutive national championship trophy at Toyota Stadium. While the stadium that was formerly known as Pizza Hut Park has gone through several name changes in the last few years, one thing has remained the same. When the final horn sounds in the Football Championship Subdivision title game on the first Saturday in January, NDSU is the team standing on the big stage celebrating with nearly 15,000 of our fans looking on and raising the familiar Bison horns.

In so doing, NDSU will join Appalachian State as the only FCS program to win three straight national championships. That’s pretty rarified air, even for a program as steeped in history and tradition as NDSU. Of NDSU’s ten national titles, only five ended in undefeated seasons – ’68, ’69, ’86, ’88 and ’90. And no Bison team has ever finished a season 15 – 0. The ’88 and ’90 teams both won titles with perfect 14 – 0 marks. No team in the nearly 120 years of NDSU Football has ever won three consecutive national championships. This team not only joins the discussion of being the best team in the school’s 119 years of football, they’ve built a pretty strong case for being at the top of the list.

What a ride the last three years have been as a fan. When it’s done, and Bison Nation charges the field of Toyota Stadium, this senior class will have compiled a jaw dropping 52 – 7 record.

The Herd have lost only twice since the clock turned 2011, and they will have racked up a 43 – 2 mark in the three championship seasons. Not to mention a national quarterfinal appearance in 2010. Simply put, nobody has been better. Nobody has won like this team. Period. Not a single team in Division I football has more wins in the last three seasons than our Bison. Not even perennial super power Alabama has been better.

“Enjoy this month and early January because who knows when we’ll see another group like the 24 that have brought Bison Football to new heights. This team is too focused, too good, too experienced and too determined to let anyone keep them from reaching their goal of an undefeated perfect season and adding another year to the championship banner hanging in the FargoDome.”

In 1986, another remarkable and record-setting group of Bison seniors raised their third national championship banner, defeating conference rival South Dakota 27 – 7. Following that game, USD head coach Dave Triplett summed up NDSU’s dominance over the rest of their division. “I wish to hell they would get out of Division II. They can go wherever they want.” That group of seniors played in four national championship games, and would have four national titles, but for a 50-yard field goal by Troy State as time expired in the 1984 national championship game.

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B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

@swany8

In my August column, “Enjoy the Ride,” I predicted this team would go wire-to-wire and finish undefeated. But that wasn’t my driving point. The driving point was that this season would be something special. Writing before the season kicked off, I penned, “Enjoy the ride. Don’t get caught up in the hype or expectations. This is about much, much more than Frisco. We’re watching something special. And if you can’t see that from the hype, you’ll miss out. So let’s take it one game at a time, starting Aug. 30 in Manhattan, Kansas and finishing Jan. 4, 2014, in Frisco, Texas – and every game in between.” As we get further removed from Aug. 30 and closer to Jan. 4, this team, and this season, have been every bit as special as expected.

I hope you have enjoyed this season as much as I have because seasons like this don’t come around very often. The last team to go undefeated and win an FCS national championship was Marshall in 1996. That team featured a guy named Randy Moss. Not even those great Appalachian State teams that won three straight from 2005 to 2007 finished undefeated.

From the pulse pounding last-minute victory in Manhattan that gave us “the drive” and Brock Jensen’s unforgettable touchdown plunge, to ESPN’s College GameDay showcasing NDSU and Fargo on that unforgettable September day, a fourth straight Dakota Marker victory in Brookings, the thrilling come from behind victory over Northern Iowa, to our third straight Missouri Valley Football Conference title, this team has cemented its already rich legacy.

Of the 24 seniors, there are numerous sure-fire Bison Hall of Famers, a Hall of Fame coach, not to mention the team itself, which will one day enter the Hall. This team, this year, these championships, will be talked about by Bison fans for decades to come. Enjoy this month and early January because who knows when we’ll see another group like the 24 that have brought Bison Football to new heights. This team is too focused, too good, too experienced and too determined to let anyone keep them from reaching their goal of an undefeated perfect season and adding another year to the championship banner hanging in the FargoDome. From Fargo to Frisco, it’s been one for the ages. Everyone up for the kickoff, the march is on.

*Josh Swanson is a native of Maddock, ND, is a proud NDSU alum, was the former sports editor of NDSU’s student newspaper, “The Spectrum” and is a life-long Bison fan.

BISONCROSSING Difficulty: Varsity 1 4

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Are you a Bison die-hard?

Think you have superior knowledge of Bison athletics?

Prove it every month at the Bison Crossing.

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Thanks for playing!

Find the correct answers in the January issue of Bison Illustrated.

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Down 1. Former Bison quarterback who led the football team to three

Across 1. Quarterback and Track and Field star in the early ’90s. Named first team

championships in the ’80s.

4. Where did Erv Inniger go to college?

All-North Central Conference in football twice and was a two-time North Central

5. Head coach of the Bison Cheer Team.

6. NDSU men’s basketball senior Taylor Braun is from what state?

8. What is the name of this section of Bison Illustrated?

9. ____ ____ is considered the “Voice of the Bison” and commentates the NDSU football games on the radio.

11. How many consecutive times has NDSU football won the MVFC title?

13. Former men’s basketball coach Tim Miles currently coaches at the University of _______.

15. The Bison football team’s long snapper from California.

17. In 1919, NDSU football head coach, Stan Borleske, switched the mascot name from the “_____” to the Bison because he wanted a strong and fierce mascot.

Conference decathlon champion in ‘90 & ’93.

2. NDSU volleyball earned the number _____ seed for the Summit League 3. What Minnesota ABA team did Erv Inniger play with for one season.

7. Walk-on guard playing for the men’s basketball team that is known for his energetic defense in practice.

10. Women’s Athletic Director Lynn Dorn graduated from _____ State.

12. Chad Stark and ____ ____ made a fierce combination in the Bison back

field in the 80s before he tore up his knee, ending his career before the 1986 championship game.

14. _____ _____ is NDSU’s all-time winningest women’s basketball coach with a 671-198 record over 29 seasons.

16. NDSU wrestling is part of the ________ Wrestling Conference.

18. The Bison soccer team finished second in the Summit League _______ ______.

19. Notable Bison wide receiver and kickoff returner from Wahpeton, N.D.

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3 U T N 4 M A H O 5 6 P M A R K C O O K M R 7 H E K Y M I 8 9 10 A R I Z O N A S T A T E W J 11 U L H I L L S B O R O N N S E S S D O 12 13 A E H T E U D 14 15 T M R A O R R S A 16 G E O R G I A S O U T H E R N S A I N 17 H G E T O N I T A L Y L B R E F N E E Y X O L 18 R A G R I C U L T U R A L 19 D T A Y L O R B R A U N E 20 S E V E N T E E N 2

Hanson-Runsvold has been inducted into the NFDA Hall of Excellence upon receiving their 10th Consecutive Pursuit of Excellence Award.

Jacques Boucher*, Aynsley Odegard*, John* and Cyd Runsvold, Owners, Alex Rydell*, Tom Sauby* *Licensed Funeral Directors pictured with the “Pursuit of Excellence Eagle Award”

WALKER’S WORD 2010: NDSU is one blind replay official away from moving on to the semi-finals of the FCS playoffs after losing to Eastern Washington in overtime.

Leaving A Legacy

2011: NDSU wins its first Division I FCS National Championship in school history.

2012: NDSU repeats and wins its second National Championship in a row.

By Steve Walker |

W

hen you take on a project, whether it be in business, athletics or life, most people will say that they want to leave it in better shape than when they first saw it.

When a doctor visits a patient, they both hope they walk out the door in a better condition than they arrived. When a mechanic looks at a car, every mechanic hopes that it drives out of the garage running better than when it came in. How does this have anything to do with NDSU Athletics?

Twenty-four senior football players on the Bison football team embarked on doing the exact same thing when they came to NDSU four or five years ago. Their goal was to leave the Bison program in better shape than when they arrived in Fargo.

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2013: NDSU wins the Missouri Valley Football Conference Title for the third time in three years.

“This class of 24 seniors has definitely left the NDSU football program in a better place than when they arrived, and it’s the leadership they possess that will make sure every class after them does the exact same thing.”

This trip down memory lane brings back some great memories, and puts the phrase “Bison Pride” in the front of my mind. Is the season over? Absolutely not, it’s just beginning in the minds of many Bison fans.

Looking back over the first part of this 2013 season, it hasn’t always been perfect in the minds of Bison fans, but no team will ever be perfect every snap of every play. The Bison have been consistent, dominant and fun to watch playing together. How can you not get excited when the second half comes around and the offensive line is pushing defenders back while putting them on their rear ends? Or watching the linebackers fill run gaps and everyone running to the ball, playing great defensive football? Even watching the punter, Ben LeCompte, consistently pinning teams deep in their own territory without a return opportunity has been exhilarating.

It is safe to say that these senior football players have done just that. Try and disagree with that statement and you will be spinning your wheels. It seems like only yesterday when most of this senior class came in during the fall of 2009. Most redshirted during the ‘09 campaign and watched the Thundering Herd struggle through a three-win season, but look what has taken place since then. These players deserve a huge “thank you” from all of Bison Nation.

Bison Pride is about coming together and playing as a team. Not a man in that locker room cares about individual statistics, and all they want to do is continue to win and get another ring on their finger once this season is all said and done. This class of 24 seniors has definitely left the NDSU football program in a better place than when they arrived, and it’s the leadership they possess that will make sure every class after them does the exact same thing.

Let’s re-cap a few things over the last four years, when they transformed our Bison into the back-to-back National Champions in search of a three-peat.

GO BISON!

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

*Steve Walker started 36 games as quarterback for the Bison between 2004 - 2007. He holds school records for pass attempts in a game, pass completion percentage, yards gained passing in a game and touchdown passes in a single game.

It’s a Hat Trick!

For the third consecutive year, Spectrum Aeromed has been added to the list of the Inc. 500/5000 Fastest Growing Companies.

In addition, the company increased their rank to number one in the top 100 in the State of North Dakota.

“The more we grow, the more impact we have on saving lives which is how we truly measure success.”, said Spectrum Aeromed President and CEO Dean Atchison.

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MOE’S SOUTHWEST GRILL

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(701)356-MOES

TEAM

MAKERS

Happy Holidays Bison Nation!

moving forward with the marvelous renovation project thanks to the generosity of so many Bison Alumni and fans.

By Ken Zetocha

C

ongratulations to the Bison football and women’s cross country teams for winning their respective Missouri Valley Conference and Summit League Conference championships.

Holiday greetings from all of us on the NDSU Team Maker board. As 2013 comes to a close, along with my term as Team Maker president, I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their time and generosity in making the 2013 Team Maker Fund Drive another record breaking year. My congratulation to our fund drive chairman, Paul Bougie, the team captains and their team members for their dedication and hard work, alongside the Bison Athletic Department in exceeding our Fund Drive goal of $2,740,000. In fact Bison fans and Team Maker supporters I am proud to say for the first time we have raised in excess of $3 million for Bison Athletics and our student athletes. What a banner year! Yet, in visiting with Bison Athletic Director, Gene Taylor, we find that today it takes an excess of $3.5 million to fully fund the athletic scholarships.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your 2013 NDSU Team Maker president...

Thank you to everyone for your support of Team Makers and Bison Athletics this past year. Go Bison!”

Also, in this past year we have assisted Bison Athletics with the installation of the new Athletic Field turf south of the Bison Sports Arena. There will be a new sign going up out at the athletic fields, so take a look and see what your Team Makers support continues to do.

As the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays are fast approaching and this year’s end is quickly upon us, we have so much to be thankful for, including the successes of all Bison student athletes and coaches. And yes, it does appear the Bison Sports Arena is

76

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

Your membership in NDSU Team Makers, which has been around for over 63 years, helps provide the resources necessary for the Bison Athletic programs to recruit, develop and graduate those student athletes within their respective programs, thus allowing them to pursue so many opportunities as the brightest and best student athletes in the region.

If you are not currently a Team Maker member and share in our mission of supporting the Bison student athletes, I encourage you to do so with your taxdeductible membership to NDSU Team Makers.

Team Makers has a wide range of membership levels of giving and support that include priority points for events, membership card, window decal, event program recognition and a subscription to Bison Illustrated. You can visit with a Team Makers volunteer or go to ndsuteammakers.com or gobison.com and click on the Team Makers tab and you can learn more about Team Makers, our mission and join or donate online.

I want to take this opportunity to wish the Bison football, volleyball and cross-country teams continued success into the post season. Also, I want to wish the same success to the Bison winter sports of men and women’s basketball, wrestling and indoor track and field in the upcoming season.

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your 2013 NDSU Team Maker president, during which time I have had the opportunity to meet so many friends of Bison Athletics. Thank you to everyone for your support of Team Makers and Bison Athletics this past year. Go Bison! * Ken Zetocha is the current head of the Team Makers. Team Makers is a non-profit organization committed to raising scholarship money for student-athletes and assisting them in earning degrees for a successful future.

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PopQuiz

With NDSU Athletes Who was your favorite athlete to watch as a kid?

Describe your favorite thing about NDSU.

Favorite dessert for the holidays?

Antonio Rodgers

Football

Rodgers joined the Bison after transferring from West Hills College (Calif.). In his debut season, he played in all 15 games, tallying 17 tackles including six solos. He has made his presence known on special teams, laying the wood to opponents.

The environment at NDSU is what I love the most.

Everyone is a diehard Bison fan.

Sweet potato pie

Campus isn’t too big or too small

Strawberry cheesecake

Lindsay Whalen when she played for the Gophers.

The hometown feel.

My aunt’s homemade cheesecake!

My favorite athlete to watch as a kid was Brett Favre when he played for the Packers.

My favorite thing about NDSU is the success of our athletic programs.

My favorite dessert for the holidays is apple crisp.

Allyson Felix

I love the family atmosphere.

Everyone is so friendly with each other.

Sugar cookies... with a lot of icing!

Deion Sanders

Kevin Vaadeland

Football

This senior tight end has developed into a major factor in the Bison’s offense this season, becoming one of Jensen’s prime targets in the end zone. Vaadeland hauled in a huge touchdown reception against Kansas State during the Bison’s triumphant comeback victory.

Michael Jordan

Liz Keena

Women’s Basketball

The junior forward averaged 4.6 points/g and 2.6 rebounds/g for the Bison last season. Keena shot 80 percent from the free-throw line and 42 percent from the field. The Hastings, Minn. native has become a key veteran on a young team.

Evan Knutson The junior finished with a 17-15 overall record last season, placing second at the NCAA West Regional tournament.

Knutson, the 285-pound heavyweight Wisconsin native, received an at-large bid to the 2013 NCAA Championships.

Wrestling Ashlynn Simon

Women’s Track & Field 78

The sophomore runner ran the 800m relay at the Indoor Summit League Championships, claiming the fourthfastest time in school history. Simon clinched the fifth-best all-time 600m in NDSU history with her time of 1:33.44 at the Jack Johnson classic.

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • DECEM BE R 2 0 1 3

Where will you be celebrating the holidays?

Here in Fargo with my teammates as we get ready to chase number three.

Best gift you ever received during the holidays.

A pair of Jordans that I got last year.

In Park Rapids, Minn. with my family

Trip to Florida from my parents

At my lake cabin, and I’ll probably be bringing the two aussies with me.

My parents got me a Barbie that came with matching pajamas. Best. Gift.

Ever.

I will be celebrating the holidays at home in Wausau, Wis. with my family.

The best gift I ever received was my first snowboard in 6th grade.

Canada

I got a car from my grandparents one year.

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