FM High School Sports View Oct/Nov '16

w w w.f msp o rts view. com

videos, ONLINE-only content & past articles

ROSTER

FEATURES

4

pushing to the finish line

20

big shots in the middle Shanley’s Emily Dietz & Kylie Kanwischer

Running to the rim

Steichen and the DGF Rebels Seek State Trophy

BY Kayley Erlandson

BY Jackie Jenson

28

Experienced Pitchmen Moorhead Soccer

BY Merrie sue holtan

BY Brent Rogness

36

Catching up with Larry Scott

BIg shots in the middle Photography by: J Style PHotography

Sara Lee

Cover

www.fmsportsview.com Volume 1 No. 5

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

West Fargo’s Jennifer Dufner

12

OCT / NOV 2016

40

Jack’s Corner Kira Larson

BY Jack Michaels

46

11 11 19 19 27 27 35 35 37 37

oak grove: emily Card fargo north: alexis bachmeier Sheyenne: North Knewtson moorhead: Kara WErth fargo south: arianna Harmon shanley: Hannah Manz park christian: josh janssen d-G-F: garrett scheel west fargo: Drew Mears davies: anna davison

The “A” List BY brent rogness

FM 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 Fargo-Moorhead area. Also available through subscription at the following rates: One Year (6 issues) $14.00, Two Years (12 issues) $25.00, Three Years (18 issues) $30.00. ©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

Jennifer dufner

A

sk anyone and they’ll tell you: Jennifer Dufner was born to run.

Since she began running competitively in 7th grade, the West Fargo senior has enjoyed a successful career as both a cross country runner, taking 4th place at state during her junior year, and as a long-distance runner for the track and field team, where she recently broke two school records.

Brad Amundson, Dufner’s cross country coach, says that Jen has grown into a leader on the team as her running career has progressed.

“She sets an example of what hard work and dedication look like and how it can pay off,” says Amundson.

“Running is a tough sport and when Jen is at her best, she is a motivator for the team, more by example than anything else. If she runs hard in a meet or practice, people see how hard and tough it is. It gives people motivation to run that hard and to be that tough.”

Jennifer’s mother, Bev Dufner, also spoke highly of her daughter’s intense discipline and devotion to oth-

ers, both on and off the race course.

“As a mom, I admire her so much for her dedication,” Bev proudly notes. “Not only for her training, but for her dedication to her family, her friends and her faith. What was really outstanding as a mom was to see her accomplishments.”

In addition to her natural aptitude for running and quiet leadership, Dufner exudes a strong sense of humility and focus she gained throughout the course of her six seasons running on the cross country team.

Jen’s main advice for runners?

“There are going to be days when you feel really good and there will be days you don’t feel good and don’t feel motivated,” mentions Dufner.

“You need to learn how to push past it. You need to push through it because…” she paused to laugh before continuing, “…because running is pain, mentally and physically.”

Dufner says she thrives off the energy in each and every race, and her favorite part of a cross country race is seeing how she stacks up against her competition.

“It pushes you to run a better time and stick with the front pack of girls,” Dufner says.

6 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

by Kayley Erlandson • Photography by Thru Him Photography

Dufner attributes her success in cross country and her positive attitude to her coach, her teammates and the team’s positive dynamic.

The cross country runners engage in numerous pre-race traditions, including doing a team cheer before each race and planning meals together the night before their meets.

“Seeing my teammates work hard every day, no matter what level they’re at, that gives me the motivation to work hard,” says Dufner. “I want to do well because my teammates are always there and support each other. I wouldn’t be able to do anything without them. No matter how fast or slow they are, new, veterans, it doesn’t matter. You can’t get anywhere without a team. You run for your team, not just yourself.”

Jennifer’s mom also reiterates the strong sense of camaraderie on the cross country team.

“Everything is so team-oriented,” Bev says. “It’s not just about the individual. I love seeing how much fun she’s having with her friends, watching them support one another.

At the end of the race, she and the girls all hug each other, support each other and hold each other up after the run.”

The West Fargo cross country team’s mantra this year is “Teamwork,” which bears remarkable similarity to Jennifer’s personal motto: “Teamwork makes the dream work.”

Jennifer dufner “You all work so hard together and you all have something in common, which is running,” Dufner mentions. “It’s nice looking back and thinking I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Dufner is also quick to attribute credit to her coach, Brad Amundson.

“He’s been there since day one in 7th grade,” Dufner says. “Everything I’ve earned, I owe it all to him.”

Coach Amundson talked about the things he wants his runners to focus on during each and every race.

“I always try to get my athletes to focus on what they can control,” Amundson emphasizes. “They can’t control the weather, how they feel, or how other runners feel or race.

They can only control their effort and competitiveness. They can control why they are competing, that it

is more than just for their place and time…it’s about running to help each other, the team.”

Jennifer’s focus and penchant for leading by example led her to her best cross country season yet last year, where she took 4th place at the state cross country meet. Dufner knows the road to last year’s state meet was paved with days of intense training and discipline.

“My goal was to get in the top eight,” Dufner said. “I remember crossing the finish line and just thinking, Wow, that went by so fast!

I suppose you get a bit of an energy rush.”

Dufner said she does not like to measure her performance by her final time or by rankings going into the race. To Dufner, the time it takes her to complete a race doesn’t matter as much as the effort she puts in during a race.

8 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

by Kayley Erlandson • Photography by Thru Him Photography

“We classify the season as a success if she runs her last race at state as hard as she can,” Amundson notes.

“That she finishes the season knowing that she has given the maximum effort in her race, that she has competed every single step and that she can look me in the eye and tell me she gave it her all for herself and the team.”

After her senior year, Jen hopes to continue pursuing her love of running after graduation.

senior year with success and building new relationships in college.”

“It’s going to be exciting to watch her compete at a higher level,” Dufner’s mother said. “To watch her continue to grow, to learn her own strengths and capacities.”

The specifics of Dufner’s upcoming running career may be up in the air, but one thing is absolutely certain: Jen loves to run, and she will run any course that is set before her.

FMSV

“I plan on running in college,” Dufner mentions. “I’m looking at some Division 1 schools and places that have nutrition programs. I’m looking forward to getting through

10 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

Scholar Athlete > OAK GROVE

GROVERS

Emily Card Basketball - volleyball - track Nickname: Em Favorite School Subject: Chemistry and Spanish Grade Point Average: 3.99 Groups and Organizations: Student Council, Key Club, Cass County Youth Commission, National Honor Society

I Root For: Duke Blue Devils, Pittsburgh Steelers Notable Academic Accomplishments: Three Year Letter Winner, Presidents List In Ten Years...I’ll Be: In a career working with kids and helping others.

Scholar Athlete > FARGO NORTH

SPARTANS

Alexis Bachmeier volleyball - track Nickname: Lex Favorite School Subject: Anatomy and Physiology Grade Point Average: 3.7 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Spanish Club, Imagine Thriving

I Root For: NDSU, Women’s National Volleyball Team Pets: Three Dogs - Blue, Oreo and Ully In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Working as a DA in the National Guard.

FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 13

Emily dietz & KYlie Kanwischer

T

o be “stuck in the middle with you” is perfect for Kylie Kanwischer and Emily Dietz both 6’1” senior captains who guard the net for the Fargo Shanley volleyball team. Kylie has accumulated 630 kills and 195 blocks over her career while Emily has 587 kills and 141 blocks. Curt Johnson, Shanley’s volleyball coach, says the two are great student-athlete role models, who share their leadership skills on and off the volleyball court.

Kylie also plays soccer and has run track, while Emily adds basketball and track and field (discus) to her list of sports endeavors. They have gone to the state tournament in

several sports and have achieved numerous all-tournament, all-conference and all-state awards. Two years ago, Shanley won the Class A State Volleyball Championship, and last year they placed second.

Kylie and Emily, also whiz kids in the classroom, both have 3.9 grade point averages. Emily leans toward math and science and wants to be an elementary education teacher, and Kylie excels at science and biology with a love of animals leading her to a career in veterinary science.

A self-described “home girl,” Emily decided to continue her basketball career at North Dakota State University.

14 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

by Merrie Sue Holtan • Photography by J Style Photography

“I’m a farm girl at heart,” says Emily, who has always loved riding the combine on her great uncle’s farm.

“I want to stay close and live where I don’t have to take a plane to come home.”

“I want to travel the world and live all over the place,” Kylie says. “ Maybe study animals in Africa, work in Hawaii or Colorado. I’d like to be a zoo vet and work with the big animals.”

When Kylie makes her college choice, it will include a campus surrounded by nature and an opportunity to play volleyball.

The Competitive Edge Emily Emily calls her family the ultimate “traveling sports family.” She played four summers for the North Dakota Pro basketball team, two of those at the elite level. This year they traveled to Minneapolis four times as well as Chicago and Iowa for tournaments.

Emily has an older sister Grace and younger siblings Adam and Megan.

“Traveling is a real time commitment, and I always sacrificed summer and friends,” Emily says. “I will never forget the feeling of being from North Dakota and competing and beating teams from all over the country.”

Emily’s parents, David and Lori, did not play sports, but Lori showed horses throughout the region. Emily credits her mom for teaching her tough mental training.

“I love the team aspect of basketball,” Emily says. “I love the burning fire to win and to make myself and the team better. It sounds cheesy, but it’s a pure love of the game.”

She believes volleyball is more choppy, start and stop, with more time to think. She prefers the flow of basketball, where there’s less down time.

“My dad is the encourager in the arts and activities,” says Emily, who is in National Honor Society, a service club, Teens for Life, and sings

in Concert Chorale and teaches religious education classes. To relax, she crochets and currently is finishing a blanket.

Kylie Kylie remembers being lugged to tournaments as a little girl while her older sisters Katrina and Kelsey played in tournaments. Both her parents, Kathy and Marvin, have run marathons including two Boston Marathons for Kathy. Marvin ran high school track and played football for Jamestown College and Kathy also ran high school track.

“We were an active family, immersed in sports,” Kylie says. “I started soccer in kindergarten and began traveling in third grade.”

Emily dietz & KYlie Kanwischer For two summers Kylie played for the North Dakota United volleyball team and competed at Asics Nationals in Chicago as well as at the Disney Wide World of Sports high school AAU volleyball competition in Orlando..

“I was always interested in playing volleyball in the backyard with my sisters,” she says. “I like the atmosphere of volleyball, and getting a big block is a big thrill.”

As an outside midfielder in soccer, Kylie spends her time running up and down the field, thinking about “the whole game.” In volleyball,

since she doesn’t play back row, she is more in and out of the action.

“Soccer is also a very physical game with people pushing at you,” she says. “You constantly have to go hard, be prepared and take risks.”

Kylie’s most difficult moment in sports was tearing her ACL and cracking her kneecap in ninth grade soccer.

“Trying to recover was so long and hard,” she says. “But my mom and dad helped me through it. It was a difficult come back.”

16 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

by Merrie Sue Holtan • Photography by J Style Photography

Kylie also sings in Concert Chorale, works as a lifeguard and a nanny, and is a member of National Honor Society and a service club. An artist, she loves oil painting and pottery and has even sold some of her paintings.

The Coach Factor Both girls agree a coach needs to communicate with players about what goes wrong and how to fix it – by doing it correctly.

“I like a competitive coach who is involved with the game in a positive manner,” Emily says.

Kylie adds a coach should push a player toward greatness; to be the “best self ” an athlete can be in all aspects of life. “My dad coached me all my years in soccer,” says Kylie.

“He pushed me, taught me lessons like fairness, competition and hard work.”

The girls also respect coaches who celebrate with them. On the other side of the coin, when there are challenging years, they’ve learned to pick up and move forward.

“Our volleyball coach, Curt Johnson, teaches us to play to our ability, not to the other team,” Emily adds.

Emily dietz & KYlie Kanwischer Advice for Athletes from Emily and Kylie • Practice makes perfect. You

won’t see improvement other wise. Go to the weight room.

Find it in yourself to go to the

gym when no one is there. If

you make yourself better, your

team will be better.

by Merrie Sue Holtan • Photography by J Style Photography

•

Traveling teams may take a toll on your family time. Talk about what’s most important with your family.

Marys in English, Spanish and Latin,” Kylie says. “We pray for strength to work hard and to keep us free from injury.”

•

Prioritize and balance your life: faith, family, academics, sports.

Lori and Dave Dietz are excited about Emily’s decision to play basketball at NDSU next year.

•

Don’t be afraid of mistakes.

You can’t be the best unless there are new things to learn.

Faith and Family “My family is a stickler about faith,” Emily says. “We are strong Catholics and always go to mass. My faith also helps calm me.”

•

Learn time management skills early. Use your study halls.

“Before each volleyball game, our team prays and says three Hail

18 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

“She is a great leader on and off the court,” Lori says, “and we can see her teaching and coaching in her career someday. She is also passionate about her Catholic faith, and this is truly a blessing for us as parents.”

Kathy Kanwischer believes Kylie has always been an unselfish player.

“She would rather assist than score,” she says. “Kylie plays hard when the team needs her and loves to have fun. She is very determined to be a veterinarian and will work hard to achieve that goal. We wouldn’t trade her for anything.” FMSV

ReId Anderson, Bobby Gunderson, Hyatt MartIneau, Jaden M c Gregor

Scholar Athlete > WEST FARGO SHEYENNE

MUSTANGS

North Knewtson Tennis Favorite School Subject: Government / History Grade Point Average: 3.92 I Root For: Duke Basketball, Minnesota Pro Sports, NDSU Football Pets: One Dog, Burhle

Notable Academic Accomplishments: Student Council President, National Honor Society, Academic Lettering In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Unsure, but will most likely go into Business Administration

Scholar Athlete > MOORHEAD

SPUDS

Kara Werth Hockey - Soccer - Track Nickname: K-Dubs Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 4.0 Notable Academic Accomplishments: 4.0 Since 8th Grade, Academic Letter Winner Each Year of High School

I Root For: Minnesota Wild Groups and Organizations: Volunteer at the V.A. Hospital Pets: Dog Named Sadie In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Married, possibly a pharmacist or biomedical engineer.

FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 19

20 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

DarIen BogenreIf, Jared Motschenbacher, Brandon LIen, Josh Janssen

Natalie Steichen

W

ith the 2016-17 school year officially underway, local athletes have recharged their aspirations toward the march for a state tournament appearance. The Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton girls basketball team is one squad that was on the doorstep last season, only to be denied in the Class AA, Section 8 finals.

Led by Natalie Steichen, D-G-F is primed to make a deeper playoff run this winter. Though only a junior, the Rebels are in good hands with Steichen, a fierce competitor who brings passion and intensity to the floor.

“I have played basketball since second grade,” relays Steichen. “I absolutely love to compete and win.”

by Jackie Jenson • Photography by J Style Photography

Having also participated in softball and track through the years, Steichen notes basketball has been her go-to sport since elementary school.

“What drew me to this sport [basketball] was the competitiveness that is shown on the court and the ability to play something I love with my friends.”

That said, the goal is to take the skills she has learned over the years and help her team get to state. With a strong bench and reputation for being able to move the ball down the court quickly, Steichen is confident all the pieces are in place to make that state dream a reality this season.

“Basketball has taught me many lessons, but none greater than how important it is to fight through adversity to achieve success.”

“I think we have a pretty good chance of making it to state this year with a lot of girls returning, and knowing how close we made it last year, just fuels us to get that much farther this year,” explains Steichen.

Speed is a weapon the team collectively uses to overwhelm opponents.

“A huge strength that we have for our team this year is our quickness and ability to run the floor. The quickness turns into great transition offense and defense which really helps the size factor for us,” Steichen expounds.

Getting a jump on her opponents by moving the ball down court rapidly to her teammates is where Steichen excels. This is sure to

be a skill she frequently showcases during the 2016-17 season.

“I am always looking for teammates that are up the floor, so I can push the ball in transition,” explains the D-G-F standout. “My speed helps me maneuver through people to get to the rim which helps because of my size.”

Another attribute Steichen says benefits the D-G-F girls basketball team is the fact that the Rebel post players can “play a little post/ perimeter,” which gives the team a wealth of agility on offense.

“The main challenge for us this year will be the height disadvantages. Our coaches, however, push us to the best of our abilities in

FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 23

Natalie Steichen

24 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

by Jackie Jenson • Photography by J Style Photography

practice, which results in us playing at our highest levels in games,” remarks the junior point guard.

Recently, Steichen committed to play basketball collegiately for Karla Nelson and the Minnesota State University Moorhead Dragons.

Having successfully maintained a balance between sports and academics throughout her high school life, she says she is looking forward to expanding her experiences with both at MSUM. “My goals for college are being able to have an impact on the success of the basketball team while successfully majoring in biology, so I am able to continue my education in the medical field,” relays Steichen.

What helped Steichen hone in on MSUM was the invested, supportive coaches and players she met at the Moorhead campus.

“When I went on my visit, the coaches showed that they cared a lot about their players and the success of the team,” notes Steichen.

There was also an additional draw, as a familiar Rebel face will be along for the ride too.

“My teammate, Alyson Brenna, committed there [MSUM] as well, so I thought it would be fun to play with her again,” explains Steichen.

“The location of it [MSUM] is just a bonus because it’s so close to home!”

In the present, Steichen waxes positive on her experience at D-G-F, mentioning it affords her an opportunity to play the sport she loves and grow as both a player and team member.

“The best part about being on the D-G-F basketball team is the relationships built and the memories made,” she says.

FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 25

Natalie Steichen

Steichen’s journey has met its share of challenges, such as injuries out of her control. In eighth grade she fought through Iliotibial Band Syndrome, a common overuse injury that occurs when the iliotibial band, a ligament that runs down the outside of the thigh from the hip to the shin, is tight or inflamed.

“I noticed that I was injured during a softball tournament,” relays Steichen. “We didn’t go to the orthopedic doctor until the summer going into eighth grade and that’s when I discovered I had IT band syndrome and hamstring tendonitis. I had to do six to eight weeks of physical therapy until I could participate again, which was challenging.”

Getting back to the court again was the goal.

Playing varsity basketball and making it to state was an even bigger carrot. Through it all, Steichen’s success is based on her second-nature principles of persistent effort and a will to push through the painful moments.

“Basketball has taught me many lessons, but none greater than how important it is to fight through adversity to achieve success,” she says.

Some simple, yet powerful advice she gives to anyone starting out on a varsity basketball team would be to build relationships with teammates and coaches.

“Always work your hardest, whether it’s in practice or a game. Be an easily coachable player by always listening to the coach, and being a good teammate. Never give up.” FMSV

26 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

Scholar Athlete > FARGO SOUTH

BRUINS

Arianna Harmon Tennis Nickname: Anna Favorite School Subject: Science Grade Point Average: 3.89 I Root For: University of Wisconsin Madison Badgers Notable Academic Accomplishments: Three year academic letter winner

Pets: Five Dogs - Hermione, Starbuck, Griffy, Lily and Rose Groups and Organizations: Theater, Knowledge Bowl, Science Olympiad, Science Bowl, Spanish Club, Club Volleyball, National Honor Society In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Working as a chemical engineer and as a volleyball coach.

Scholar Athlete > SHANLEY

DEACONS

Hannah Manz volleyball - tennis Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 4.07 Groups and Organizations: Student Council, Student Ambassadors, Teens for Life, Service Club I Root For: University of North Dakota, Chicago Blackhawks, Roger Federer

Notable Academic Accomplishments: Presidential Academic Award, National Honor Society, NDHSAA Distinguished Student Pets: Four Dogs - Hudsou, Herbie, Teddy and Snoopy In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Married, working in the medical field.

28 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 29

MOORHEAD SOCCER

A

ccording to statistics, Minnesota has the highest concentration of people of Norwegian descent than any other state in the U.S. Yet, when it comes to this year’s Minnesota high school soccer landscape, many teams are finding it difficult to compete with the talented ‘Swiss Boys.’

The self-given moniker of the Moorhead Spuds soccer team has more to do with team bus trips than family trees or ancestry.

“We all love the Swiss chocolate milk,” says senior and team captain Joey Grundstrom. “Sometimes we get on the bus to go to a game and then realize we have to quick run to the gas station if we forgot it.”

Senior comrade Noah Yak agrees, time spent together on bus rides

Tommy Swenson

by Brent Rogness • Photography by Jeremy Petrick Photography

simply goes better with milk, just watch your labels closely.

“The bus rides with the team get pretty crazy. (We enjoy) team bonding and getting close with each other,” says Yak. He jokingly adds, “Don’t bring any of that skim milk stuff. We might throw you out.”

While the Spuds are out of the gates fast again this year, reaching a seventh-consecutive 10-win season, their ultimate success on the pitch has more to do with experience than it does the pregame beverage.

Yak, Grundstrom, and fellow senior Tommy Swenson bring an invaluable combination of on-field seasoning and leadership. Each athlete has dressed varsity since ninth grade, something that virtually never happens en masse at Moorhead High.

“All three of them stood out to me their freshman year,” says Spuds head coach Lance Hansen. “I can count on one hand how many freshmen we’ve had through our program. In one year, to select three freshmen (for the varsity team) from that group was pretty incredible.”

While Yak, Grundstrom, and Swenson bring a wealth of experience to the pitch, the three are also very different from each other in their style of play.

A natural-born leader, Grundstrom made Hansen’s choice easy from the moment he first auditioned as a ninth-grader.

“Joey had an impressive tryout his freshman year. His character is pretty incredible,” says Hansen. “I said to Joey, ‘By the time you’re a junior, you’re going to be a captain.’ I don’t

Noah Yak

think I had ever said that to a player before. He leads in a way that people really respect him.”

As any quality leader does, Grundstrom takes satisfaction in contributing to success as a team.

“I like distributing the ball and I like watching my team score,” says Grundstrom.

Yak not only made the squad, but his proficiency in finding the net earned him a starting job toward the end of his ninth-grade campaign.

He credits much of his success to having the right mindset as he approaches each scoring opportunity.

“Surprisingly, my head is really clear (as I’m heading toward the net), and all I see is just me, the goal, and the ball in the back of the net,” says Yak.

Joey Grundstrom

FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 31

MOORHEAD SOCCER Hansen adds that Yak is “relentless” when attacking the goal.

“He’s so dominant out there,” says Hansen. “He gets a lot of velocity on his shots.”

In his fourth season, Yak has come to realize how much he’s grown as a person and a player in the program.

“It’s been a lot of fun to be part of the team since my freshman year, developing my skills and growing and developing as a team,” he mentions.

Swenson thrives on the defensive side of the field, keeping the game balanced as he offers strength and speed to the midfield.

“Tommy is a quieter player, but he’s very dominant defensively for us.

He can hold down the middle and he just dominates space,” says Hansen. “His on-the-ball quickness is incredible. He can slow down counterattacks, which is so important in soccer.”

A Squad too Strong to Resist Hansen has been at the helm of the Moorhead boys soccer program

by Brent Rogness • Photography by Jeremy Petrick Photography

since 2006. He is also a sixth-grade teacher at Moorhead Park Christian, where his daughters are enrolled. He coaches them during the spring season as part of their co-op with the Shanley program.

As his daughters advance through the high-school ranks, Hansen’s narrowing his focus. He has decided this will be his final season with the Spuds’ boys team. He initially considered backing away last season, but coaching this talented class of seniors proved too hard to back away from.

“Stepping away with this group is exactly what I wanted to do,” Hansen says. “This is the perfect way to step out. The program will continue to do well.”

Grundstrom credits Hansen with much of the program’s success, and was pleased to see him make the choice to return.

“We were all hoping he’d come back because he brings our team together and it seems at the end of the year we peak at the right moments,” Grundstrom says. “He’s good at that at practice and he has a lot to do with our success on the field.”

Working Together to Fulfill the Dream Grundstrom, a second-year captain, shares duties with senior Devon Thompson and junior Clay Riveland.

He relishes taking on a leadership role in practices, games, and beyond.

“I’m incredibly honored to be nominated as a captain by my teammates.

It’s been a great time leading them on and off the pitch,” Grundstrom says. “As we’ve grown up over the past year, it’s been fun to have a common goal to make the state tournament. Hopefully we can fulfill our dream this year.”

Fulfilling that dream will likely require finding a way through St. Cloud Tech, a team that has gotten the best of them in the Class AA, Section 8 semifinals each of the past two years. In the 2015 tournament, the teams played to a 0-0 tie, but Tech ended Moorhead’s season with a penalty shootout win.

“Last year was a heartbreak loss with the shootout,” says Grundstrom.

“St. Cloud Tech is a very skilled team.”

Tech went on to finish third at the state tournament last fall. They once again field a team with a strong

chance to compete for a section title, Grundstrom observes.

percent of the starters were on a club team.”

“Our biggest nemesis will be St. Cloud Tech,” he says. “They’re our rival in the section.”

For the Spuds, the ingredients are there to create a deep playoff run this fall: High character, strong work ethic, a wealth of experience, a deep roster, and a coach aiming to end his career in style. Just don’t forget to add an ice-cold pint of Swiss chocolate milk. FMSV

Hard work and dedication have brought the Spuds a long way in recent seasons. Swenson is optimistic the year-round work they put in will ultimately help bring them over the top.

“There’s a lot of pride in being a Spud,” Swenson says. “Most of us worked hard in the offseason to reach our full potential. About 75

“As we’ve grown up over the past year, it’s been fun to have a common goal to make the state tournament.

Hopefully we can fulfill our dream this year.”

Joey Grundstrom

FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 33

34 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

Scholar Athlete > PARK CHRISTIAN

FALCONS

Josh Janssen Football Favorite School Subject: History Grade Point Average: 3.38 Notable Academic Accomplishments: B Honor Roll

I Root For: Pittsburgh Steelers In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Welding

Scholar Athlete > DILWORTH-GLYNDON-FELTON

REBELS

Garrett Scheel football - track & Field - wrestling Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 4.0 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society, Dilworth Lutheran Church Youth Group I Root For: Wisconsin Badgers, Green Bay Packers Pets: Two Dogs - Hunny and Buttercup

Notable Academic Accomplishments: A Honor Roll, Mathlete Since 7th Grade, Envirothon Competitor, A in Biology In Ten Years...I’ll Be: With a comfortable job, a house and possibly be starting a family.

Sara Lee

MINNESOTA sTATE uNIVERSITY mOORHEAD

A legend of sorts in basketball shorts, Sara Lee is a product of a more innocent time when studentathletes were allowed, even encouraged, to play more than one sport. Lee went eagerly from sport to sport, from volleyball to basketball, from basketball to softball and nobody earned more varsity letters at Minnesota State University Moorhead. It was a challenge that formed the bedrock for a productive coaching career as well.

“I enjoyed whatever sport was in season,” Lee said. “I enjoyed playing multiple sports; it kept me from burning out on one. I also liked to be very active— I actually liked to practice— and there was not as many out of season activities as there are today for student-athletes. It also allowed me to be a part of many different teams and exposed me to numerous coaches with differing styles of leadership.”

“It was the most difficult from fall to winter as they (sports) overlapped the most, but the coaches were wonderful and made the transition as smooth as possible. All my teammates were very gracious, helping me as I walked in weeks and even months late. Everyone at Moorhead State was very supportive, especially the three coaches who recruited me.”

“I learned from all the coaches I played for and was mentored by and it helped create my own coaching philosophy. It was through my playing days I saw how much influence and impact a coach has on their athletes and I wanted to have that same impact on young women.”

A native of Alexandria, Minn., Larry Scott spent 40 years as sports information director at Minnesota State University Moorhead before retiring in 2009. A 1963 graduate of Alexandria High School, Scott received a BS degree in English from Moorhead State in 1967 and was appointed the first fulltime MSC SID in 1969. Scott was named sports publicist of the NIC as well in 1970. Scott filled a three-year term (1984-87) as a college division representative on the Board of Directors of the College Sports Information Directors of America. Scott was presented the Ike Pearson award as NAIA SID of the Year in 1990 and inducted into the Dragon Hall of Fame in 1988, the CoSIDA Hall of Fame in 1991 and the NSIC Hall of Fame in 2015. Scott won 107 national awards for athletic publications, including 25 “Best in the Nation” certificates and is an adjunct professor in the MSU Moorhead Mass Communications department. A member of the MSUM football broadcast team, Scott has worked 501 consecutive Dragon football games since 1967.

by Larry Scott

Scholar Athlete > WEST FARGO

PACKERS

Drew Mears cross Country - Track & Field Nickname: Drew Favorite School Subject: Accounting Grade Point Average: 3.90 Groups and Organizations: National Honor Society, PAY I Root For: UND, University of South Carolina, Pittsburgh Penguins

Notable Academic Accomplishments: Student of the Month, Lettered in Academics Pets: A Dog named Trip In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Living out of state with an enjoyable job and hopefully starting a family.

Scholar Athlete > DAVIES

EAGLES

Anna Davison soccer - basketball - golf Favorite School Subject: Math Grade Point Average: 3.75 Your Role Models: Dad and Big Brother, Lukas

I Root For: SDSU and University of North Dakota Pets: Two Dogs - Daisy and Ace In Ten Years...I’ll Be: Teaching elementary school.

Sara Lee

by Larry Scott

Sara Lee receives the NAIA graduate scholarship from MSU president, Dr. Roland Dille.

A finished product of Moorhead High School and MSU Moorhead, Lee begins her 28th year as head coach of the highly successful women’s basketball program at Denison University in Granville, OH this year, firmly set on chasing more championship dreams. While she looks back fondly on that era of pre¬specialization in sports, she understands the landscape of athletics in America is changing.

“I think specialization is here to stay. Kids are being pushed at a young age to do so and sometimes they feel the only way to make a good team is to train all year around. Others feel they need to concentrate on one in order to get a college athletic scholarship.”

38 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

Lee and the Big Red are coming off a North Coast Athletic Conference Championship in 2015-16.

The team finished 23-5 record and advanced to the NCAA Division III Tournament for the sixth time in program history. Since 2003- 04, the Big Red have won 263 games, an average harvest of 20 wins per season.

Under Lee, Denison has captured four NCAC championships and seven NCAC Tournament titles. In 2010-11, the Big Red completed the league’s first undefeated regular season with a spotless 25-0 run and claimed the NCAC Tournament title for the sixth time in seven years. She was named NCAC Coach of the Year for a fifth time last winter.

In addition to her basketball duties, Lee served as the head volleyball coach for 18 seasons at Denison. She stepped down prior to the 2007 season with 395 career victories. She is still the program’s all-time leader in wins and the 31 victories in 1993 remains the single season record.

After a rewarding stop at Moorhead High School that included a runnerup finish in the state volleyball championships, Lee committed to the young athletic program at Moorhead State in 1982 and made an immediate impact. While those were Spartan times, especially for women’s athletics, Lee had no complaints, and was especially pleased with the coaching arrangement.

“I thought we were treated well; I had a female coach for virtually every season.”

Lee was a four-year letter winner in volleyball, basketball and softball at MSUM from 198286. She earned all-conference and all-district recognition in volleyball as a junior and senior and was twice named her team’s most valuable player. She earned the MSUM Palmer Volleyball Award as a senior as well.

A reliable point guard, Lee served as a basketball captain as a senior and a starting left fielder and all-district selection in softball.

Those days of yesteryear still conjure up some special memories. “It was a special moment when I got to start in the first volleyball game my freshman year. I remember getting an opportunity to play outside hitter during my junior year within the 6.2 offense and making all- tournament teams.”

“My best basketball memories include my teammates, some who became my best friends throughout college. I remember getting to play a bit during my inaugural season, and getting to travel with the team two days after coming to practice once volleyball was done. We were down big in the game and coach put me in.

Not even knowing the plays, I was petrified but thrilled to be part of the team.”

“Being a strong female student-athlete gave me confidence, and it is my hope the players I coach will grow in the same way through their athletic experience. Also, I was so fortunate to have many women role models in my life early on, such as Mary Ann Donnay, Karin Schumacher and Sharon Anderson. It was because of these women that I continue in athletics and coaching today.”

Lee was honored as the recipient of an NAIA Scholarship as an undergraduate and saluted as the Outstanding Student-Athlete as a senior. She was inducted into the MSUM Hall of Fame in 1995 and the NSIC Hall of Fame in 2016 and remains confident in the value of athletics.

“I really feel that athletics can help prepare students for the rest of their lives. The lessons you learn through practice and competition are invaluable and can be transferable to many other aspects of your life. My athletic experience made me the person I am today. My classroom on the court and field were just as important to my development as my coursework.” FMSV

Photography by Jace Delgado FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 39

Jack Michaels is a sports broadcaster and host of the ‘Jack Michaels Show’ on 740 The Fan. Jack is the Sports Director at Midwest Radio Communications in Fargo.

Kira Larson

University of MISSOURI

Kira is a former Fargo North Spartan and is currently a redshirt junior playing volleyball for the University of Missouri. Kira is also a former USA Today North Dakota Volleyball Player of the Year as well as a 4-time state high jump champion in North Dakota. As a basketball player at North, she was part of their state champion basketball team.

Jack Michaels: Kira, you were one of the top high school volleyball players in the country coming out of Fargo North High School, a state high jump record holder, an All-Big 10 academic honoree while at Nebraska and you are coming off an All-American year at the University of Missouri. Did you ever think as a little girl growing up in north Fargo that these things were possible?

KIRA LARSON: You know, when I was little I never really thought that far ahead. I wanted to play everything, I wanted to be in every sport I could and I wanted to be better than everyone else. It didn’t matter if you were a boy or girl, I just wanted to win. So, growing up it wasn’t like I had big dreams of playing college volleyball or basketball, I just loved playing sports. Even in middle school I had no idea what sport I was going to play. I just knew that I loved competing.

40 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

JM: You’re 6 feet 2 inches tall. Were you always the tallest in your class growing up? When did you hit your growth spurt?

KL: I was always the tallest, and then there was a point where others started catching up to me. I thought, well okay, I guess I’m not going to be as tall as I think I am. But then I had another spurt.

I never thought I would be 6-foot-2. My older sister is only 5-foot-10 and my dad is 6-foot-2, … I wear the same shoe size as him. I wondered, how did this happen? But, it’s definitely a blessing because it helps me in what I do now.

JM: Speaking of your parents... Your father, Don has been the track and field coach at NDSU for several decades and your mother, Desire’e has worked with jumpers for 20 years. Having both parents who are coaches, was it a foregone conclusion that you would play sports?

FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 41

jack’s corner - KIRA LARSON KL: I think that’s one of the big misconceptions being a coach’s kid. Often times when your parent is a coach, they push you too hard and you see a lot of kids back out of it because of so much expectation that’s been put on them. My parents weren’t like that, neither of them were. When I was little, my mother told me if I didn’t want to play sports, I didn’t have to. I think that’s why I loved it so much. It was always my decision to play. My dad never made me stay after a practice for extra reps, it just was never like that. I grew up on a track watching college athletes working hard day in and day out. Track and field is a sport where what you put in you get out and I liked that. I think watching those college athletes work hard kind of sparked something in me.

One of my mottos is: You may be taller than me, you may be able to jump higher than me, but I’m going to outwork you every single day. I think that’s just the nature of how I grew up. My parents instilled in me what hard work can do. I got lucky, I have some of the greatest parents you could ask for and honestly, I’m just blessed.

JM: Do you think being involved in track and field early has helped you in other sports?

KL: Definitely. I was practically born on a track. I was always around it. I mean, I really didn’t get started playing volleyball until high school.

The thing that makes me the volleyball player I am, if you watch me, I do everything off of one foot. I love going off one foot. Most players hit off two feet. I prefer one foot. It makes sense. Look at what I was best at in high school, the high jump. You jump over the bar off one foot. I played basketball, in the post I used one foot driving in for layups. I am who I am because of my

past. What makes me the volleyball player I am is because I played many different sports.

JM: You were sought after by several big schools with scholarships in hand wanting you to come to their institution. How crazy was the recruiting process for you?

KL: The recruiting process for females, specifically for volleyball, is out of this world! I mean, I committed after my sophomore year in high school. You rarely see that with a boy because sometimes they haven’t even hit their growth spurt yet. In volleyball, I swear I’ve had teammates who committed after their freshman year, or eighth grade. It’s just out of this world, like things you’ve never seen before. I started playing club volleyball and that’s really where you get noticed. That’s where all the coaches are. Tournaments in Minneapolis and Orlando, places like that.

I was pretty new to volleyball, but before I knew it the letters started coming, and kept coming. Coaches were really interested in me, and I’m not gonna lie, it was very overwhelming. I was only a freshman or sophomore in high school and it was really overwhelming. I had to start narrowing down my choices and at the time track and field was also going really well for me, so I started thinking maybe I want to do both volleyball and track. Volleyball was still No. 1 for me, but I kind of wanted to do both and Nebraska became one of those schools where that could happen. They have an amazing high jump coach. I went on a visit and fell in love with Nebraska. So, I went there but it didn’t work out.

I’m one of those people who believes everything happens for a reason. So, looking back I feel I was meant to go there because I wouldn’t be where

42 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

by Jack Michaels

I am today. High jump didn’t work out and I was okay with that. Looking back I figured, I was a threesport athlete in high school, I can be a two-sport athlete in college.

Let me tell you, playing two sports in college is hard, heck, playing one sport in college is like a full-time job.

JM: Not many athletes from North Dakota play at the highest collegiate level. You are able to play against another former Fargo native in Emily Stroup who plays volleyball for Ole Miss. It’s pretty remarkable that two young ladies from Fargo are competing against each other in the SEC! KL: I talked with Emily and kind of told her that you need to be patient at this level. I mean, you’re so used to being the top player in high school and then sometimes you’re asked to wait your turn in college. It’s tough to play as a freshman. Most true freshmen don’t play. Even though it can be a shock to the ego, I appreciated not playing right away because now I can appreciate it more. I told Emily that her time will come.

JM: You’ve been able to travel to many places thanks to athletics. Is it true that you and your Missouri teammates went to China?

KL: Well, actually this is the second time I’ve been to China. I’ve been to Japan once and China twice. When I was at Nebraska we went on a foreign trip to Japan and China, then I came to Mizzou and wouldn’t you know it, they tell me we’re going to China! This trip to China was much different than the one I took with Nebraska. Two of our coaches are Chinese, they’re from China, and we have a girl on our team from China.

Having a coach you work with who can translate things so well in a foreign country made things so much easier and fun. It was such an amaz-

FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 43

jack’s corner - KIRA LARSON ing experience, when we left I was sad, I didn’t want to go. Being a little older now I realize I appreciate things more. I mean, I saw one of the Seven Wonders of the World… I was on the Great Wall of China! Not a lot of people can say that and I’m just so fortunate and thankful for it.

JM: You have a love of fishing. I bump into your father from time to time, and because we have daughters who love and play volleyball you would think that is the topic of conversation. It’s not. It doesn’t take long before your dad shows me pictures of you holding a big fish on one of your trips to the lake. What is it about fishing that you like so much?

KL: For me, I’ve played sports my whole life and when I’m not playing, I’m the kind of person that needs something else. So, fishing came to me at a young age. We have a lake home in Canada and we would go there and fish. I really liked it. It was relaxing and fun, and it kept me interested. With fishing, you’re not good at it because you’re tall, or because you’re fast, it’s just different and I liked it right away. Honestly for me, as much as I like fishing it’s just more about spending time with my dad. He loves fishing so much, and for me it’s about spending time with him because he’s just one of the most incredible human beings I’ve ever met. When I’m out there fishing we can talk about anything. We can talk about life, and he has such an amazing insight on life and for me that is so worth it.

JM: Kira, you’ve done so much and accomplished so much already. If there were young kids out there that wanted to accomplish what you have, what would be your message to them?

KL: I have a couple different messages. I believe if you want something as bad as you say you want it, you will do anything to get it. If you want it bad enough, you’ll work for it. I meet so many people who want to play club volleyball, but you have to put in the work. I missed out on so many things in high school. I loved high school, don’t get me wrong. But when others were out socializing, I was in the gym. I worked (hard) day in and day out and sacrificed a lot. I wouldn’t change it for anything though. I love where I’m at. I tell young kids, if you want it go for it, really, truly go for it. Give it 100

44 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016

by Jack Michaels

percent. I think about that each day. Did I give my all today? Could I have done more today?

Did I hold back at all today?

Secondly, you’re going to figure out where your path leads you and it’s not always what you think.

For me, I thought I was going to stay at Nebraska but it wasn’t the place. Now, I’ve found a place I’m happy. My message is to not settle for a place you’re not happy. If you’re not happy with your sport, you’re not going to enjoy it. If you don’t love your sport, college is going to be brutal for you. You have to love it, because it’s a lot of work.

JM: So, after you’re done at Mizzou would you like to play professionally?

KL: Oh, for sure! To play the game you love and actually make a few bucks for it, absolutely.

I would love to get picked up by a professional team overseas. I just want to try it out. It may not work out, but I don’t want to look back in five or ten years regretting not trying.

JM: Kira, thanks for spending some time with me and we’ll be sure to follow you and the rest of your volleyball career at Mizzou, who knows, maybe we’ll see you on a lake fishing some day.

KL: For sure, I’ll probably be there with my dad.

Thanks Jack. FMSV

FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016 45

Olivia roche

fargo north > swimming & Diving In her sixth and final year on Fargo North’s swim and dive team, Roche has qualified for state in six swimming events this fall. She will soon close out a decorated career that finds her name atop the school and state record board for the 400 free relay. A team captain, Roche also plays soccer for the Spartans. Additionally, she excels outside the realm of athletics as the North Dakota DECA president.

Katelin Winter

Moorhead > swimming & Diving A junior at Moorhead, Winter has already made her mark on the Moorhead swim and dive program and she looks forward to continuing her success in 2016. As a sophomore, Winter placed 14th in the 200-yard individual medley at the Minnesota state meet in 2015. The school record holder in the 200 individual medley and 100 butterfly, Winter and senior teammate Tabby Roman will be worth watching closely as they work toward a return trip to the University of Minnesota for the state meet.

CHASE TEIKEN

West Fargo > Football West Fargo’s red-hot start to the 2016 football season can be partially attributed to the performance of running back Chase Teiken. In six games, the senior running back has 118 carries for 759 yards and 12 touchdowns. Running behind an offensive line featuring standouts Brandon Metz and Zach Willis, Teiken is finding yards easy to come by, as evidenced by his 6.4 yards-percarry average.

Sam O’Keeffe

Fargo South > Soccer A junior goalkeeper for the Bruins, O’Keeffe is a two-year starter at the net and is one of the primary reasons Fargo South has been firmly entrenched in the top half of the Eastern Dakota Conference standings this fall. Through the team’s first nine conference games, O’Keeffe surrendered only five goals. He also excels in the classroom, carrying a 3.77 GPA.

Jason Gaulrupp

Sheyenne > Football West Fargo Sheyenne’s EDC-leading rushing attack has been spearheaded by the efforts of junior running back Jason Gaulrupp. Through six games, Gaulrupp has 613 yards on 126 carries with seven touchdowns. Sheyenne quarterback Keaton Mahnke has also contributed to the Mustangs’ high-octane running game, rushing for 424 yards and five touchdowns.

Anna Davison

Davies > golf Davison, a junior at Davies, has been a strong and steady force on the course for the Eagles this fall. Taking on the team’s No. 1 role after the departure of two-time state champion Jenny Marsh, Davison finished third in the EDC in scoring. Her best regular-season performance came Aug. 31 at Edgewood in Fargo, where she carded an 80 to tie for medalist honors.

46 FM SPORTS VIEW OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2016