www.highschoolsportsview.com
VIDEOS, ONLINE-ONLY CONTENT & PAST ARTICLES
ROSTER
FALL 2018 www.highschoolsportsview.com VOLUME 6 NO. 1
F E AT U R E S
04
SCHOLAR ATHLETE
KAYLIE ISAMAN PELICAN RAPIDS FEATURE
06
THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
Two Siblings Excel as Cross Country Competitors BY JENNIFER LUKENS
18 NEVER STOP ATTITUDE PHOTOGRAPHY BY: JUSTIN EILER PHOTOGRAPHY
COVER
20 22
SCHOLAR ATHLETE
34 36 38
CHRISTINA KUISMI DAXTON OLSON UNDERWOOD
LILY PEARSON FERGUS FALLS
SCHOLAR ATHLETE
OLIVIA FOSS HILLCREST FEATURE
CONVERSATION WITH CRAIG Jason Retzlaff
BY CRAIG OLSON
BRANDON-EVANSVILLE SCHOLAR ATHLETE
SCHOLAR ATHLETE
46
FEATURE
THE ‘A’ LIST BY CRAIG OLSON
FEATURE
NEVER STOP ATTITUDE
Fergus Falls’ Ethan Olson BY ANGELA GARVIN
SPORTS VIEW is published four times a year by Compass Media, 118 S Vine St, Fergus Falls, MN 56537. This is a free publication available in several retail outlets throughout the West Central Minnesota area. Also available through subscription at the following rates: One Year (6 issues) $10.00, Two Years (12 issues) $18.00, Three Years (18 issues) $24.00. ©2018 Compass Media. Except for purposes of review, material contained herein may not be reproduced without prior written consent. 218-205-2706 • artwork@fmsportsview.com
Nickname Kay
Kaylie Isaman
VOLLEYBALL - BASKETBALL - TRACK
GPA 3.90
Favorite School Subject Accounting
I Root For Minnesota Lynx
When did you start your athletic Career? I started playing in fourth grade and fell in love with sports. Kaylie Isaman is a three-sport athlete for the Vikings, competing in volleyball, basketball and track and field. She has placed at the state track meet three years in a row, a sport where she has been a four-time all-conference performer. She has earned all-conference honors in basketball three times, while being named MVP once. She also has been a captain for both volleyball and track. Isaman recorded her 1000th career dig in a match against Perham on September 20. As a varsity volleyball player she also is quite familiar with the head coach, her mom, Heidi Isaman. Even in such a competitive conference and section, Kaylie says the Vikings are determined to make 2018 special on the volleyball court. “I think our group of seniors have a lot of experience and we know what we want and we have a lot of younger girls who understand our goals and are on the same page with us as far as what we are trying to accomplish as a team,” said Isaman. “We have been improving our back row play as the season goes on and we have an amazing setter (Sarah Thompson) who knows exactly what to do in our offense, along with some hitters who have really stepped it up.” Her role on the team has changed a bit this year as she is getting used to a new position. “I’ve switched to being a full-time back row player so I’m really learning how to just concentrate on defense and serve receive. I really like the change and I like being in charge of the back row and watching my teammates succeed.”
How have sports made You the person you are today? It has taught me how to be a leader, make new relationships, and to work hard and compete.
What does the future Hold for you? College is undecided, but I am going to play basketball. I want to go into accounting, but am not set on it yet.
As for playing for Mom, Kaylie says, “I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I do give her a lot of credit because she puts a lot of work into this team and it’s so special to be with her. We have our ups and downs, I might get a little cranky here and there and she might too, but at the end of the day we come home and we’re really thankful we get this opportunity.” Mom is enjoying it too, “Kaylie is the ultimate athlete and I know how to push her. She responds to that well, but I have to be able to step back and just love her and be a mom. I think we find that balance pretty well. She lets me know when it’s time to give her some space and just put the mom hat on. With her younger sister traveling with us this year it has allowed the three of us to create some great memories. Basketball has been her passion since she was little and I’ve actually been able to coach her in her younger years. She has put her heart and soul into basketball and I’m really excited for her as she enters college next year.” Kaylie has decided to play basketball in college and is in the process of making a school selection after numerous visits. She plans to make her choice around Thanksgiving time. Another positive Kaylie has taken from high school athletics is how she has expanded her group of friends. “Sports has allowed me to make a lot of friends that might not have been my friends without my involvement in athletics, especially some of the younger girls. It’s going to be really hard to leave them next year.” Coach Heidi Isaman has high hopes for her volleyball team, saying, “Our numbers our low but as long as we stay healthy this group is very hard working, probably the most competitive group I’ve had in a long time. They really do push each other and keep each other accountable. We have great leaders and great workers and it’s fun to see the competitiveness come out on the court.” SV
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 5
6 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 7
JACOB AND LEXI BRIGHT
A
s the fall cross country season kicks off, Jacob and Lexi Bright are ready to compete alongside one another as siblings and teammates. The duo has been some of Minnesota’s West Central Area Secondary School’s top racers, landing ninth and 39th respectively in the individual Class A cross country state meet last year. But it’s not just their speed that makes them a mighty combination for the Knights. John Van Kempen has coached Jacob (junior) and Lexi (freshman) since they were seventh graders. “Other kids on the team look up to them and follow their lead,” he said. “Both are as genuine, good-hearted Midwesterners as you’ll ever meet, and we have been very fortunate to have them in our program at West Central Area.”
8 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
The Brights
Growing up just two years apart, Jacob and Lexi are some of the best witnesses to each other’s character. Lexi describes Jacob as smart, athletic, and kind. Jacob’s dedication to his studies and extracurriculars got him accepted into the National Honor Society last year. An accomplished tri-sport athlete in cross country, basketball (point guard), and track (distance), he also picked up golf last spring. “It was a one-time thing, just to try it out,” he explained. Jacob plans on returning to track and keeping golf as a hobby this year instead.
by Jennifer Lukens • Photography by Renegade Photography
It’s Jacob’s kindness, Lexi said, that is making an impact on the team. “He makes sure to talk to everybody and that they feel welcome into our team.” This mark of a leader may have been one of the reasons his coaches elected Jacob to be a co-captain this year. As Jacob’s chemistry teacher, Coach Van Kempen sees firsthand the genuine regard for others played out on and off the course: “Jacob is one of the politest kids in the school. He greets everyone with a smile and will talk to anyone – from kindergarten to 90 years old.
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 9
JACOB AND LEXI BRIGHT But when the gun goes off for racing, he is a fierce competitor.” Jacob describes Lexi as determined, hardworking, and intelligent. “You can tell that she is determined when you look at her face at the end of the race,” said Jacob. “If she lost, it was not because she didn’t work her hardest.” Lexi has applied that same determination to all three of her sports, and it’s paid off: she was all-conference in softball (catcher), basketball (point guard), and cross country as an eighth grader. Lexi’s fast times have secured her a spot on the cross country varsity team since seventh grade. And her intelligence
by Jennifer Lukens • Photography by Renegade Photography
(and hard work) has kept her grades no lower than an A. Coach Van Kempen shared a similar assessment, “Lexi is a relentless worker, she likes to get to work and be intense at whatever she is doing, and that’s the way she has been since seventh grade.” But more than their athletic prowess, Lexi and Jacob agree that having a good family and friends is more valuable than any medal. When they’re not running or seen with ball in hand, they spend an abundance of time with friends on the Bright’s country home property: playing ping pong, hot tubbing, four-wheeling, or shooting hoops. The siblings
also make time for music – both sing in the school choir. Lexi plays trumpet and Jacob is a member of an a capella group.
It Runs in their Blood
The Brights were raised in an environment that fostered athletic success through dedication and hard work. “Heidi and Todd have been instrumental in developing their kids and are always very supportive of whatever we are doing as a team with Lexi and Jacob,” attested Coach Van Kempen. A marathon runner, Heidi started coaching the girls cross country team when Lexi started her seventh grade year. “My
mom has helped so much. I really enjoy having her at practice,” said Lexi. “I think all of the girls like having her there. She’s someone to talk to and another person to help motivate us.” Todd played wide receiver in football and point guard in basketball. “He was really fast,” said Lexi. His personal 5K record was 19:04. “Jacob beat that as an eighth-grader. I still haven’t yet, but that’s definitely one of my goals.” Both Lexi and Jacob started running at a young age – Jacob’s first 5K was when he was just 4 years old, and Lexi first competed at age 6. They ran in road races alongside of their
mom and grandfather, Carlos Bright. Carlos has been racing since he was a young man, so Jacob and Lexi fondly remember the time they outran him. “It was a big milestone,” said Jacob, who was 12 years old at the time. Lexi recalled the feeling she had when she outran him. “All I remember is that when I beat him, I was so excited to talk to him when he crossed the line.”
A Friendly Sibling Rivalry
When asked who their athletic inspiration was, Lexi named her brother. As with many younger siblings, she attended his cross country meets before she was eligible to try out. “I loved
“We don’t necessarily compete against each other but compete with each other based off of places.” ~ JaCob Bright FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 11
JACOB AND LEXI BRIGHT
by Jennifer Lukens • Photography by Renegade Photography
“I remember I was so tired pushing up the hill, but I knew the finish line was very close; it was almost finished.” ~ LExi Bright on the 2017 State Meet 12 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
watching his meets because his team was super good…It was so exciting to watch him and cheer him on,” said Lexi. During practice, the guys and girls are split up based on speed, so the siblings don’t often get the chance to compete side by side because, “He’s a lot faster than me,” Lexi clarified. But a friendly sibling rivalry still exists. “We don’t necessarily compete against each other but compete with each other based off of places,” explained Jacob. For instance, if Lexi places third in a race, it motivates Jacob to make the top three as well. Coach Van Kempen can testify that this mutual support plays out regularly, “There may be a friendly competition between them at races to see who can finish better, but I know they want each other to be successful.” The Brights have their individual preferences, whether it’s their training course (Lexi prefers running in town and Jacob, the country roads) or their pregame meal (Lexi’s is chicken and rice while Jacob’s choice is chicken Alfredo). But during the race, the siblings share the same ritual to push forward. They count their steps, usually hitting 100 before starting over. “It helps time go by and helps me not have to focus on the torture,” said Jacob. Although they weren’t taught this trick, their DNA or the fact that their favorite subject is math may have something to do with it.
The 2017 State Meet
The Brights’ early commitment to running has fostered their success. Jacob secured ninth place at the Class A boys cross country state meet last year as a sophomore, with a time of 16:18, defeating 167 other boys. “At the beginning of the season, I don’t think I saw myself ending up with that kind of success, but when you have good coaches that motivate you and teammates that are helping you during practice, it’s a good formula for success,” Jacob said. This was his third appearance at state with the team competition and second as an individual. West Central Area’s boys team placed eighth out of the 16 teams competing. Lexi finished 39th at 19:58, besting 135 other girls as an eighth grader. The girls’ team took 15th place. This was Lexi’s second appearance at the state cross country meet as an individual and with her team. The race took place at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minn. All varsity races, including the state meet, are 5,000 meters in distance (3.1 miles/5K). The girls competed first, followed by the boys. “It was loud. There were so many people; so many footsteps. It’s just crazy,” recalled Lexi.
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 13
JACOB AND LEXI BRIGHT
by Jennifer Lukens • Photography by Renegade Photography
Both Brights took their coach’s advice to get out ahead of the pack early on. After the first stretch, they came to the prairie loop where no spectators were allowed. The Brights, alone with their thoughts and steps, pushed through. During the final stretch, they reached a hill surrounded by fans cheering them on to the finish line. “I remember I was so tired pushing up the hill, but I knew the finish line was very close; it was almost finished,” said Lexi. During his run, Jacob said, “I remember trying to count what place I was in because I did not want to get passed again,” said Jacob. At one point, he remembers being in 11th place before he bolted past a few to land ninth. “It was one of those times at the end of the season where there’s no holding back at all, and you’ve just got to go 100 percent.”
Motivation, Guidance, and Tweaks
Of their head coach, John Van Kempen, Jacob said, “Being a teacher, you can see him in a classroom setting as well as a coaching setting. He helps motivate us to continue and try to get better each day through athletics and also through school.” Assistants Rick Toms, Austin Hanson, and Heidi Bright also make up the coaching staff. Jacob recalls a significant moment between he and his coaches the first meet of his eighth grade year, “They were telling me to go out with the leaders and see what happens. I thought they were absolutely insane. There was no way I was going to win that race. Turns out they were right, and I should have trust-
ed them in the first place….That was the day I realized they knew what they were talking about.” His ear has been tuned to their guidance ever since. Their coaching strategies continue to work, reflected by a growing number of athletes in cross country over the past few years. “Our practice schedule has changed so much over the years, just by little tweaks to make us faster. I think all of that is coming together now and working for our success,” said Lexi. “We couldn’t do anything without [our coaches]. We wouldn’t even be close to where we are now.”
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 15
JACOB AND LEXI BRIGHT
The Reward is Greater than the Pain
The brother-sister duo kept busy training this summer, running up to five times a week to build base mileage before the season starts. Both entered road races and participated
by Jennifer Lukens • Photography by Renegade Photography
in Knights Athletic training – a weight lifting program for all West Central Area athletes.
Regionals Heartland race, in which state qualifiers compete for a spot at nationals.
At the start of this fall’s season, Lexi set out to improve from last year, and to see her team do the same. Jacob’s personal goal is to make a better time at state and at the Nike Cross
As with many runners, the Bright siblings agree that it’s the after effect that makes running worth the effort: “Running just makes me feel awesome,” summarized Jacob. But what keeps
his legs going when the pain is telling him to stop? “Thinking about finishing the race,” he said. “Knowing how mad at myself I would be if I gave up in this moment. And knowing that the reward is greater than the pain that I’m facing in the current moment.”
Coach Van Kempen has high hopes for the season: “We have been fortunate to have been to state with both the girls’ and boys’ teams for the last couple of years, with Jacob and Lexi as our number one runners, and that is our goal again this year.”
While running is an individual sport, it takes a group effort to land a victory against another team during the season. Lexi said it’s thinking about her team that keeps her going strong. “We all have to push to be the best we can be. One of us can’t slack that day…so we have to be there for each other and also trust that the rest of the team will be there for us.” Because they are all tight friends, Lexi explained, that’s not as hard to do.
Needless to say, for Van Kempen and the West Central cross country program, the future is Bright indeed. SV
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 17
GPA 4.0
Christina
Kuismi CROSS COUNTRY
Favorite School Subject Biology
I Root For Vikings, Timberwolves for pro, and Gophers for college.
When did you start your athletic Career? I started basketball in fifth grade, volleyball in seventh grade and cross country in 11th grade, which is the first year our school had the sport.
Christina Kuismi started running seriously four years ago and has been a part of the cross country program at Brandon-Evansville since the program began last year. “I’m really working on my form this year and that’s something I never really thought about when I was just running for fun,” said Kuismi. “It might take a little while to get the program where it’s competitive, but we do have an elementary program that is working with the high school kids and attending some of the meets with us so I think in a few years the program will be very competitive.” Brandon-Evansville cross country head coach Robert Bosma has high praise for Kuismi, “Christina is a runner who defines the term student-athlete. She is driven to do her best in each race and in the classroom. She put in a lot of training over the summer to help her find her comfort in running. During practice, at meets, and on the bus, you can often find Christina helping her teammates and offering advice. It’s evident that her team looks at her for guidance and leadership.”
How have sports made You the person you are today? It has taught me the value of hard work. It also has taught me the value of teamwork. It has helped my time management skills as well.
Groups, organizations & Accomplishments 4-H, 4-H State Ambassador, Family, Career & Community Leaders of America, 2nd Place State 4-H Science of Agriculture Team Member, Fergus Falls Chemistry Organization
Kuismi is planning to study gene therapy and work with genetic disorders like autism and Down syndrome. “I have some friends and family members that have a genetic disorder, so I’ve gotten to meet a lot of kids and they are just amazing people. I would love to help them be more effective with their ability to communicate and really help them get over some of the obstacles they are facing.” Christina is very involved in the local 4-H program, serving as a Minnesota 4-H state ambassador and finishing second at state as a Douglas County Science of Agriculture Team Member. She is also in FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) and is a member of the Fergus Falls Chemistry Organization. SV
Who has made the biggest impact on you? Academically: High school math teacher, Mrs. Glenetske Athletically: Mr. Bosma (XC Coach) FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 19
Nickname D
Daxton Olson
FOOTBALL - BASKETBALL - BASEBALL
GPA 3.60
Favorite School Subject Science
I Root For UND, Twins and Giants
When did you start your athletic Career? In third grade I started playing football and basketball. Daxton Olson plays quarterback on offense and safety on defense for the Underwood Rockets high school football team. Olson is also a member of the basketball team at Underwood High School and plays baseball for the Ottertail Central Bulldogs. “Being involved in competitive sports has helped me with teamwork, leadership, learning how to overcome adversity and it’s given me some great friends,” said Olson. The Rockets have built a strong football tradition and Olson was influenced by the success he saw previous teams have as far as playing in the state playoffs and in a couple of title games. “Growing up and seeing all those guys going far in the playoffs and seeing how much fun they were having really made me want to play Underwood football. We have an ultimate goal of getting to the state playoffs this year, but we really try to take it week by week and just focus on our next opponent.” Head coach Chuck Ross said, “Daxton has many characteristics of a good leader, but what really stands out is his commitment and passion for the game. He has worked hard to get where he’s at on the football team and so far this season we really couldn’t ask much more from him. He has really done a great job of running the offense and is a big part of our 3-1 start. Another quality he has is you can always count on him. If he says he’s going to do something he will make sure it gets done.”
How have sports made You the person you are today? It has helped me with team work, leadership, learning how to overcome adversity and has given me some great friends.
What does the future Hold for you? I plan on going to college, but I don’t know where yet.
The Rockets have been ranked in the top 10 in the state in 9-man football this fall and Olson thinks the prospects for basketball and baseball are good as both teams return most of their players from last season. Daxton kept busy during the summer as he prepared for his senior year, trying to focus on all three of the sports he’s involved in. “We have Babe Ruth and junior legion baseball during the summer, I tried to get to a couple of basketball camps and we did team camps for football with morning lifts and morning throwarounds, so I try to balance it all out,” said Olson. “Getting in the weight room is important. We have everyone from seventh grade up lifting together and starting to form that bond as a team.” His baseball coach Ryan Hendrickson says, “Daxton is a gritty ball player who is always looking to do his best and do what is best for the team. He has shown a ton of versatility as he has found himself playing nearly every position over the last couple of years. He is a leader by example by always working hard to improve his skills in practice. I have really enjoyed coaching Daxton in not only baseball, but also football and weight lifting.” SV FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 21
22 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 23
ETHAN OLSON
E
by Angela Garvin • Photography by Justin Eiler Photography
ach athlete’s journey has its ups and downs, its highs and lows.
As with all sports, there is a risk of injury that accompanies the love of the game.
However, those that choose to fight through the tough times and don’t give up on something they love inspire everyone around them to do the same.
The first time he tore his ACL was at the end of the basketball season during seventh grade. The next eight months were focused on rehab and recovery, working with coaches at the school, and physical therapy both in Fergus Falls and in Fargo at the Sanford Power Center.
Ethan Olson, a three-sport high school junior, has lived in Fergus Falls his entire life and has been participating in athletics for as long as he can remember. Football, basketball, and baseball have been his sports of choice since a young age, spending as much time at the court or on the field as he could. Hanging out with his older brother playing sports encouraged Ethan’s love for sports, although sometimes it ended in tears. “We both like to win,” he said with a smirk. Being on the football field with his father while he coached, and interacting with the players, is one of his favorite childhood memories.
24 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
As a forward in basketball, quarterback in football and a first and third base player on the diamond, knowing he could not participate was tough, but he was determined to get healthy again and support his team. And that is precisely what he did.
Unfortunately, this was not going to be the last time injury would derail this competitive athlete, as he tore his other ACL in a basketball game at the beginning of the season last year. Once again, he went through roughly eight months of rehab and recovery, only this time he knew exactly what it would take to get healthy again. Thankfully, he was cleared by doctors this past August. He is back on the field and ready to play the sports he loves. Ethan’s journey to recovery each time was witnessed and influenced by many, including his many coaches.
Keith Pearson, the quarterback and defensive backs coach as well as the assistant basketball coach, has lived across the street from Ethan “since his first day.” Ethan has worked hard to get himself back into shape, but since he has missed some opportunities to develop his skills, there will be some growing pains. However, he is up to the challenge. “Resilient is a word that comes to mind,” Pearson said about Ethan. “You think of a young kid like that who has already missed nearly two years of competition and participation as a result of [injuries] and knows how hard an ACL surgery is when it comes to recovery time, that could be devastating to anyone.” “Out on the field he is like another coach in the huddle,” continued. Pearson. “He is extremely knowledgeable, knows more than just his own position. [Ethan] doesn’t get on people. He instructs and corrects in a civil, good manner.”
“Out on the field he is like another coach in the huddle. He is extremely knowledgeable, knows more than just his own position.” Coach, Keith Pearson
“My clients who have worked with American Federal for their construction loans have appreciated the welcoming environment and professional advice provided by Chris Marvel. The entire staff at American Federal is committed to making the financing process stress free.”
- Dave Erwin, Dave Erwin Construction, Inc.
117 South Mill Street Fergus Falls, MN 56537 218.739.3377 888.389.3377
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 25
ETHAN OLSON
by Angela Garvin • Photography by Justin Eiler Photography “He’s one of those kids that people want to be around and gets along with everyone well. He treats everyone with respect, and in return the kids respect him.” Like many of the coaches, Pearson is a teacher at the school and had Ethan in his biology class last year. “Ethan is the same in the classroom as he is on the field,” Pearson said. “He is a leader and solid student that works hard.” “We just pray he has a good healthy junior and senior year so he can get out there and show people what he is capable of doing,” Pearson added. “We have high hopes for him in both football and basketball.” Matt Johnson, the high school varsity basketball coach, has gotten to know Ethan through the program over the past few years. It was during a game against ROCORI High School early last season that Ethan tore his other ACL, but that didn’t stop Ethan from being a part of the team.
Ethan traveled with the team on every road trip and to each tournament game, even during the summer when he didn’t play. “When you know you aren’t going to be one of the guys on the court, and you can’t even dress to play, and you’re still hopping on a vehicle at 6 a.m. to go to a tournament in the middle of the summer, it shows the dedication,” said Johnson. “That’s a credit to him and his parents for understanding how important it is to be a part of the program.” “You give up a lot to be a part of it, and he wants to be a leader of the team,” Johnson continued. “You have to put in the time and be committed in any situation.” Johnson has admired Ethan’s dedication to his rehab and recovery, to see him go through all he has gone through and naturally be disheartened at times, but never hang his head.
“It’s a level of maturity to understand that your injury is temporary and it’s going to take a lot of work to come back from it, and he never shied away from it.” Basketball Coach, Matt Johnson
26 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
“Even when he got hurt, he’d come to practice every day,” Johnson said. “Whether it was working on rehab or shooting free throws on the side when that was all his knee would allow him to do.” Johnson added, “It’s a level of maturity to understand that your injury is temporary and it’s going to take a lot of work to come back from it, and he never shied away from it.” Ethan has also helped with kids’ camps. “Kids love him. As a coach and a dad with a couple of young children, there is nobody better with kids,” Johnson continued. “Every time my little guys walk into the gym, he takes time to work with them.” Paul Ratz, the strength and conditioning coach, has helped Ethan in his rehab after both of his ACL injuries. “For him not to be able to play for two 8-month periods has been tough,” Ratz said. “But he’s stuck with it.”
28 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
ETHAN OLSON
by Angela Garvin • Photography by Justin Eiler Photography
“He’s one of the most humble and kind people I’ve ever gotten to be around. He’s just one of those kids that likes to get out there and compete.”
Ethan Soland
Going through the process of rehabbing and getting back to normal is not only difficult physically but mentally as well. “Dealing with the disappointment of not being able to play, the disappointment of not being able to help your team—he’s definitely got perseverance.”
“He knew if he did things right he would be back, after his experience last time.”
“The amount of time he has put into rehab himself has been amazing,” Ratz continued. Ethan was working on strengthening his leg at least three times a day, whether it was in the weight room, in the Fargo facility, or on the sidelines. “That’s a lot of commitment and effort on his part to get back to where he is now.”
Ethan Soland has gotten to know Ethan through many different programs at the school. He has had him as a student and has coached him in middle school basketball, JV baseball, and even had him on the fishing team that launched this past year.
“He is a competitor in the weight room as well,” Ratz added. “After rehabbing last time, he was able to squat 315 pounds five times which is crazy for his height and build.” “Then he hurt his other knee, had to start all over,” Ratz continued. “He wanted to catch up to everyone else, but I encouraged him to go slow, protect himself and take baby steps.”
“He’s taller than any of the linemen in front of him, standing at 6’5”,” Ratz said. “He stands back there with such composure; it’s fun to watch him throw the football.”
Ethan is passionate about fishing and does not pass up many chances to get out on the lake with his father, brother or his friends, so the fishing team was the perfect activity for him. With a season running from June to August, about 40 boats met on the lake from various schools, each with two students and a boat captain.
He was partnered up with one of his friends and someone from the DNR and Ethan was able to learn a lot from their time on the lake. “The thing I liked about it from the very beginning was that he thought there was value in getting out and enjoying it, regardless of the competition,” Soland said. “You could tell he just enjoyed being out on the water.” “He’s one of the most humble and kind people I’ve ever gotten to be around,” Soland commented. “He’s just one of those kids that likes to get out there and compete.” “He gives it his best every single time, and he’s not going to mope and cry about something that doesn’t go his way.” “Ethan’s not the kid that is going to showboat, show up other people, or talk trash,” Soland added. “He has a quiet confidence and actions speak for themselves. Ethan knows that his work is worthwhile.”
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 29
ETHAN OLSON
by Angela Garvin • Photography by Justin Eiler Photography Steve Olson is not just the high school varsity football coach, but is also Ethan’s father and has watched his love for sports grow over the years. He has also had a front row seat to both his son’s struggle and commitment to his recovery. “The first time he did it (injured his ACL) he was 13 years old, and he had no idea what it all meant,” Olson said. “When it happened again this last winter, it was pretty devastating because he knew exactly what it meant. It’s a huge commitment,” Olson stated. “The whole rehab process is really boring.”
30 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
“Instead of working on your game, you are just working on straightening your leg again for a long time, and you’re working on walking without a limp, rather than going out and working on your jump shot or working on your throwing mechanics as a quarterback.” “There are all those months after surgery where you’re just trying to make it back to where you were,” Olson continued. “As a high school kid, they should just be worrying about improving. You lose that developmental time when they’re young as he’s been doing this.” “He’s had to work awfully hard to come back from both of his ACL injuries.”
Naturally Olson is a little nervous about Ethan being back on the field after everything he has gone through the past few years; however, he is excited to see his son back in action. Ethan has been both greatly supported and inspired by his family, friends, and coaches these past few years. They push him to be the best he can be at everything he does, and he does his best to return the favor.
“[Mr. Ratz] plays a big part in all of our programs,” Ethan said. “We know each other well.” “[Mr. Johnson] has made a huge impact on our program,” Ethan continued. “He wants us to win, but he always reminds us that he wants us to go out there and have a good experience, to have fun and keep building up as a person.” “[Mr. Pearson] is a great guy. We know what the other is thinking a lot of the time.”
“There are all those months after surgery where you’re just trying to make it back to where you were... He’s had to work awfully hard to come back from both of his acl injuries.” Football Coach / Father, Steve Olson
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 31
ETHAN OLSON
by Angela Garvin • Photography by Justin Eiler Photography
Having your father as your coach would understandably be added pressure for a student, but Ethan appreciates his guidance and being able to talk to him at home.
“I just live by the ‘never stop attitude,’” Ethan remarked. “Life is going to put you down all the time, but you don’t have to let it. Just keep going and get back on the right track.”
His parents have been there for him as he has gone through the process of recovery from both of his ACL injuries. Between driving him to appointments and helping him through his recovery; their love for him has not gone unnoticed. “They’ve been huge supports,” Ethan said. “They’ve been a big help, and I really appreciate that.”
“I’ve had a lot of excuses to stop, but I just don’t let that happen.” SV
Ethan has some ideas about what he wants to do after high school, but for now, he is keeping his options open and seeing what happens over the next couple of years.
“I just live by the ‘never stop attitude.’ Life is going to put you down all the time, but you don’t have to let it. Just keep going and get back on the right track.” Ethan Olson
• Must be a 2019 Graduating Senior, attending post-secondary School • Must have been featured in High School Sports View as a Scholar Athlete • Original questionairre will be used as scholarship application. Any additional information should be submitted by email to artwork@fmsportsview.com • Deadline: April 15, 2019 • Scholarship recipients will be announced in a Spring 2019 issue of High School Sports View.
Nickname Propane
Lily
Pearson VOLLEYBALL - BASKETBALL
GPA 3.90
Favorite School Subject Math
I Root For Gophers and Vikings
Groups, Organizations & Accomplishments Choir, JETS, National Honor Society
Lily Pearson is one of the key members of both the Fergus Falls volleyball and basketball teams. Her father, Kevin Pearson, was a standout athlete for the Otters, as was her uncle Keith Pearson. She is the number one hitter for the Otter volleyball team and is the top scorer and rebounder for the Fergus Falls basketball team. Entering her senior season on the basketball court, Lily has 861 career points and 686 career rebounds. “Lily had a strong junior season,” said Fergus Falls head girls basketball coach Brad Strand. “She was CLC allconference in both her sophomore and junior years and averaged close to a double-double. Lily is an excellent rebounder and I look forward to her having a strong off-season in the gym and weight room. She has a strong work ethic and she will put in the time making improvements to her game. I can’t wait to see how well Lily plays her senior season. The coaching staff has high expectations for Lily to be a strong leader for the Otters both on and off the court during her senior season.” Pearson plans on majoring in accounting and finances in college and possibly continue to compete in athletics at that level. She has not decided on what school she will attend at this time. SV
How have sports made You the person you are today? Sports have helped me become a better leader as well as teaching me good time management skills.
What does the future Hold for you? Planning on majoring in accounting and finances. Not sure where I’ll attend. Possibly continue playing sports.
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 35
Nickname Ole, Liv, Foss
OLIVIA FOSS VOLLEYBALL - BASKETBALL
GPA 3.75
Favorite School Subject Understanding the Times
I Root For Timberwolves
Groups, Organizations & Accomplishments Student Council, Choir, Worship Team, Track Manager
Olivia Foss started playing volleyball in sixth grade while she was a student at Morning Son Christian School. With junior high numbers low at Hillcrest some sixth-graders were called up to participate on the team and Olivia has been playing the sport for the Comets ever since. “We have a lot of new kids every year at Hillcrest and it is hard to make a team with a group of players who haven’t played together before. We have kids from so many different cultures represented at Hillcrest and it’s so much fun to get to know new friends from around the world,” said Foss. When asked about the strength of the Comets this season Foss didn’t hesitate with her answer, “Our coach! Honestly, she is so awesome. We also have some strong players from Norway including a great setter which really helps make the team.” In addition to volleyball, Foss also plays basketball, is on the worship team, is a student council member and is in the choir. She is looking forward to the annual choir trip which this year is taking a Southwest trip to California and Arizona. Foss is thinking about attending CheckPoint, a one year Bible Camp at Inspiration Point after she graduates from Hillcrest. SV
How have sports made You the person you are today? They have taught me how to play with a team and how to work hard because the results are so worth it.
What does the future Hold for you? I’m not totally sure yet, but I’m thinking Check Point at Inspiration Point Bible Camp for next year.
“My clients who have worked with American Federal for their construction loans have appreciated the welcoming environment and professional advice provided by Chris Marvel. The entire staff at American Federal is committed to making the financing process stress free.”
- Dave Erwin, Dave Erwin Construction, Inc.
117 South Mill Street Fergus Falls, MN 56537 218.739.3377 888.389.3377
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 37
A CONVERSATION
Retzlaff Family / photo by Dawn’s Photography
38 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
Craig Olson: I think it would be fair to say that you were a true ‘gym rat’ when you were growing up. Tell us about your earliest memories of being around the game of basketball.
CO: I know you were a huge Larry Bird and Boston Celtics fan. How did that come about and how intense was your rivalry with your brother, Ryan, who was a huge LA Lakers fan?
Jason Retzlaff: My memories begin right around 1984 when I was 6 years old. The combination of my dad’s Spartans first state title and Larry Bird and the Celtics winning the championship really made me fall in love with the game. I couldn’t get enough of the gym. It didn’t matter if it was playing myself, watching games or practices. I also spent an enormous amount of time playing Nerf basketball in my basement. I truly believe that was a big part of developing some of the touch, feel, and coordination that helped me later on.
JR: It was certainly as intense as a 7-year-old and a 10-year-old can get. In fact, I remember being in tears as a 9-year-old when Magic made that hook shot in Game 5 of the Finals in ‘87. Larry Bird is my all-time favorite player and probably the greatest basketball player I have ever watched. I feel lucky to have been able to watch the NBA at that moment because the NBA in the 1980s was the best it has ever been.
CO: You competed in the Elks Hoop Shoot Free Throw Contest at a high level. Talk about that experience and how you became such a proficient free throw shooter. JR: That was a highlight of my youth basketball days. It brought out my competitive nature as I remember being very nervous for the competitions (as was my mom!). A great memory I had was competing in the state final of the hoop shoot in Hutchinson. It was scheduled on the same day as the 1988 MCCC state title game that featured my dad’s Spartans vs. the No. 1-ranked Mesabi team. My mom drove me to Hutchinson where I finished runner-up. We hustled in the car and drove to Brainerd and got there for the last 12 minutes of the game. The Spartans overcame a 20-point deficit to beat Mesabi in OT. It included a Tony Da-
vis three-point buzzer beater to send the game to overtime which was probably the greatest single shot in Spartan basketball history. Kent Ketter stole the ball late in the game to seal the championship 95-93. CO: With your dad coaching at the college I’m sure you spent many hours at the gym and around the Spartans. What are some of your most fond memories of those times? JR: I don’t know if there was a specific memory, but I wouldn’t change how I grew up for anything. I loved being in the gym, loved going on recruiting trips, loved being in the locker rooms with the college guys before the games. I was learning scouting reports at age 10-11 and was naturally able to learn a lot. But mostly as a kid who loved sports and
1988 State Championship - Scott Colbeck & Troy Hoberg Holding Jason Up FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 39
A Conversation with Craig
JASON RETZLAFF halftime of the B game and I believe the started filling classrooms with they live telecast. It was an atmosphere that I won’t ever forget. And the games were amazing. My junior year at Moorhead we won on a Nick Lange buzzer-beating tip in. My senior year I hit a 3 at the buzzer to send it to OT and 10 minutes later Seth Greenwaldt made a game winner with 3 seconds left. The games were always fantastic. The other specific game would certainly be the
yelling from the stands for me to miss a free throw in Alexandria. I had 40 points in the game and one more meant I would pass my brother for that record. He wanted both of us to have a share of it. I was just trying to win the game! We could hear him plain as day on the tape and it is a great memory. You know that at some point a record is going to be broken. I am just so pleased that the young men who passed me in career scoring, Mike Millard and Nathan
1991 Dwarf Baseball basketball, it was pretty special being a part of so many teams having your dad as the coach. The bonding I was able to have with my dad is something I will always cherish. CO: I believe you made your high school varsity debut in a game at Moorhead against the Spuds. What do you remember about your first varsity experience? JR: My varsity debut was actually during the waning seconds at Staples my freshman year. Though my first time in the true heat of the battle was against Moorhead. I thought Coach Bob Bjorklund did a great job building me up and nurturing my confidence during my freshman year. He would dress me on the varsity but the only minutes I got in the early to middle part of the year was against Moorhead—and it was 40 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
only about 3 minutes a game. Of course, Moorhead was the great rivalry for the Otters of the 90s—typically a game that sold out well before tip-off. At the time, I always thought it was strange he only put me in during the big games for a few minutes. But playing in those games slowly built my confidence and by the end of the year I was a much more seasoned player ready to take the next step in my sophomore year. I give Bob a lot of credit for developing my confidence in the game. CO: Any particular game or games that stand out from your high school days? JR: Certainly any game we played against Moorhead I can remember in detail. We got such amazing community support as our home games vs. the Spuds were sold out by
1993 Retz Cards CEO
loss to Rocori by 2 for the right to go to the state tournament. It was undoubtedly the toughest loss of my playing career. CO: When you left high school you held a few records, including all-time scoring leader. What does that mean to you? JR: They meant a lot at the time. As a very competitive young man, I enjoyed those opportunities. In fact a great story is that my Grandpa Pete once was
Rund, are not only great players but awesome young men. CO: Was there ever any doubt that you would play for your dad at FFCC (now M State)? JR: There really wasn’t a doubt. I did go through the recruiting process during my senior year, which was a great experience hearing from numerous Division I and II colleges. But the main purpose of going through that process at that time was to lay
the foundation for where I was going after playing for Dad for a couple of years. The programs recruiting me at the time were well aware that was how it was going to happen. CO: The 29-0 NJCAA Division III National Championship team of 1997-98 provided so many great moments and memories for basketball fans in our area. As a key player on that team, what made that group so successful and that year so special?
not only that team but the 18 teams he assisted. As for the players, there was amazing team chemistry. It was a group that every individual knew what role they had to carry out for the team to be successful and each player did so for the better of the team. It was also a team that had an unwavering belief that it could and should win any game no matter what the situation. It was also an incredibly explosive team that could score so many points. I still have many conversations to this day with people about that team. Our fans were also incredible and were a big factor in our success. We played Minneapolis on their home for the state championship and three-quarters of their gym was filled with our fans. There is no question that the fans gave us a big boost.
but they went on another run to open up a separate 15 point lead. You see comebacks from 15 points down quite often, but you almost never see a team fall back twice and get it done. It really was a special team. Some memories I have include Jonny Reese coming off the bench and scoring 20 points for us—we needed every last one of them to win. Tommy Chatman winning over the New
York crowds with his amazing athleticism. Watching my dad cut down the nets as a national champion was as good as it gets. One last thing that strikes me is that every year there is a moment where your heart gets broken with a tough playoff loss. In 1998, it never happened for us. It was odd, surreal, and wonderful to finish a season without that heartbreak. Retz Cards Logo
CO: The Spartans had to come back from two big deficits in the title game that year, do you have any specific memories of what transpired during the course of that amazing win?
JR: That team was just an amazing collection of individuals that were incredible players, competed so hard, knew and accepted their roles, and loved to be around each other. Our coaching staff was the best. My dad was an incredible teacher of the game but motivated in a way where you wanted to play hard for him rather than in fear of him. I am biased, but I’ve never seen a better coach. Rick Odden was also an enormous part of the success of
JR: One of the great characteristics of the 29-0 team is that we came back over and over again on numerous occasions. We trailed by double digits in seven different games but always came back to win. It goes back to the unwavering belief that this team had throughout the journey. So in the title game vs. Monroe college from the Bronx, we got down 11-0. The great part of having to come back so many times throughout the year was that instead of panic, we calmly went about our business of winning the game. We were down 15 and cut it to three,
1993 Jason & Kevin Pearson / Baseball Card Signing Day
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 41
1994 FFHS vs Spuds at Home CO: How did you arrive at the decision to attend NDSU and compete for the Bison after you were done at FFCC? JR: As mentioned earlier, they were one of the teams that recruited me during my senior year in high school. So when the recruiting process began for my post-FFCC decision, they were always there. It was a very difficult decision that came down to NDSU and St. Cloud State. I couldn’t go wrong with the decision and ended up going to NDSU as it was a university I was familiar with. They had a coaching staff I was
comfortable with, the NCC was a fantastic conference, and it was close enough to home where my family could continue to watch me play. CO: What were the highlights of your two years at NDSU and was it difficult to adjust to the game at that level? JR: The highlights were being around another group of great friends and teammates. It was also very special to be a part of the NDSU-UND rivalry. I’ve never seen anything as fierce as how the fans of those programs face each other. A memory I had
1995 FFHS Track & Field Triple Jump
1995 FFHS Track & Field High Jump was traveling to my first UND game at Grand Forks at Hyslop Arena. We entered the building during the women’s game and it was filled with 6000 people.
The fans noticed us walking in through the corner and we got booed like I had never been booed before. It was also surreal playing in it because those games were always televised on WDAY and I watched many of them growing up. We trailed by 8-12 points most of the game but made a furious rally late to win it. CO: When did you come to the decision to pursue teaching and coaching as a career? JR: That was the plan from a young age. Once I realized I needed to be much more ath-
42 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
A Conversation with Craig
JASON RETZLAFF letic to play in the NBA, I knew coaching was what I wanted to do and I also enjoyed working with young people, so teaching was a great fit as well. CO: What were your earliest coaching assignments and in addition to your father, who else influenced you in choosing your career path and defining your coaching philosophy? JR: My first coaching assignment was being an assistant coach for the Spartans in 2000-01. When I was recruited to play for NDSU, part of the deal in the recruiting process was that I would be able to be the graduate assistant coach for NDSU when my grad work began. I ended up working on Tim Miles’ staff from 20012003. Coach Miles was and is an outstanding coach who got
1995 Postgame Interview Craig Olson so much out of his players with relentless energy and maintaining a great rapport with his players. Craig Smith was also an assistant coach at that time and he is also one of the best coaches I have been around. I learned so much about scouting opponents from Craig and used that exact system and incorporated it into Spartan basketball when I returned to coach at FFCC after NDSU. It’s pretty incredible looking at the coaches that were at NDSU during that time. Coach Miles is now the head coach at Nebraska, Craig Smith is now the head coach at Utah State, and football assistant Gus Bradley was walking the NDSU halls at that time and he ended up as the head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars for three years. It was a great time to be a coach at NDSU. CO: What was it like to occupy a spot alongside your dad as a Spartan assistant? JR: It was seamless because I had been watching him coach my entire life and was in the locker room as a kid most of my life. So I knew exactly how he did things and my philosophy was built from watching him through the years so it was
1995 Section Championship Game at DL vs Spuds
men who worked extremely hard. It was also a great experience to have my dad, brother, and people like Rick Odden, Aaron Grove, and Dave Lehrke as assistant coaches as well for those years. A lot of people ask me why I stepped down. There was a lot to love about the job, especially working with some awesome young men on a daily basis. The main reason I stepped down was that I had a hard time mentally moving
1995 Section Championship Game at DL vs Spuds a great fit and wonderful experience. It was so much fun being on a staff with my dad, Rick Odden, and Aaron Grove. We all love the game and are all great friends. It was so much fun. CO: What prompted your decision to stop coaching basketball after six years in the position? JR: I am very thankful for the experience of being the head men’s basketball coach at M State. I had the opportunity to coach a lot of wonderful young
away from focusing on basketball off the court, no matter what time of day or season it was. It was something I identified quickly in my second year of coaching and I realized I needed to have a better balance if I was going to do it for many years. Four years later I felt it didn’t improve and it was the right choice to step away. Probably the toughest professional moment of my life was breaking the decision to my team after having a great season in 2012. But I feel the right decision was made and love FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 43
A Conversation with Craig
JASON RETZLAFF JR: It took some years before we were able to get the program to a point where we were able to recruit top notch talent. I have very fond memories of the years before we qualified for Nationals because we always had quality people who were so much fun to be around. The last eight years we have had the same type of great people but the golf talent is at a different level. We’ve been blessed to have a lot of great players in our program. It’s easy to have success with players like Chris Swenson, Lucas Gervais, Ryan Ames, and Brandon Sletmoen in your program. It is also a great boost that the high school golf programs and talent in this area are top notch. Jeff Haukos (14 year assistant coach) has been an integral part of the team’s success and the program wouldn’t be where it is without him.
1997 FFCC
being a part of the program as the athletic director for men’s and women’s basketball at M State. CO: Tell us about how you got into coaching the Spartan golf team. JR: In 2004 I was hired as the head golf coach, assistant men’s basketball coach, along with some teaching duties. It was a great opportunity as a young person to have the opportunity to coach two sports I loved. While I didn’t have a lot of experience playing competitive golf, I certainly felt I had the passion, knowledge, and recruiting ability to help build the golf program. I’m very thankful for the opportunity as it has been such a big part of my life the last 15 years. 44 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018
1998 Post MCCC State Tournament
CO: It didn’t take too long for you to put together a championship team and a program that is well-respected across the nation. Why have you been able to be so successful with the golf program?
CO: What do you enjoy most about being a coach? JR: Being around young people and having an opportunity to be a positive influence for them is an honor. While I love to compete and am ultra-competitive, so often it’s the stories
about things that don’t have anything to do with a game or the sport that is memorable. The relationships and togetherness you feel from a team is a special thing to be a part of. CO: You have ventured into the world of sports broadcasting since retiring as a basketball coach. What are your thoughts about being involved in sports as a representative of the media? JR: I chuckle when you say that I am a member of the media. I really enjoy broadcasting local games. I grew up playing Nerf basketball games and broadcasting my own games (out loud) that I played in my basement—usually as an imaginary member of the Celtics, Spartans, or Otters. I have found broadcasting a great way to get my sports fix but at the same time use my passion to help others enjoy it as well. I feel very fortunate to have had someone like you Craig, to have as an example of how to broadcast a game with class, excitement, and excellence. I strive for that whenever I broadcast a game. On many occasions my dad has joined me for color commentary and those are my most enjoyable and also the most interesting broadcasts. CO: Tell us about your growing family! JR: To say God has blessed me is an understatement. I have an amazing wife, Stephanie, of 5 years. She is incredibly supportive and a wonderful mother. She is the best coach in the family as well with many years as a coach in the Fergus Falls Skating Club. I have two sons, Charlie who is 3, and Roy who
JR: There is nothing like walking down Main Street USA at Magic Kingdom at Disney. It was a tradition in our family to go every 3-4 years and it’s a place that brings me back to my childhood so I love it. I hadn’t been there for about 10 years, but we got the tradition going again with Charlie’s first trip last year and Roy will get his first trip in 2019. My favorite ride is Splash Mountain and I also love the Haunted Mansion, Big Thunder Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean.
JR: These are players I have seen, so to clarify, my memory of Spartan teams begin in 1984. I would have to go with these for various reasons: Aaron Austin: Not only a great shooter, but made shots that other players couldn’t attempt. He received an incredible amount of defensive attention and it didn’t matter. Elton Byrd: The most dominant player to wear a Spartan uniform. I witnessed his 50 point game in Brainerd in 1990.
1998 Post National Championship
just turned two weeks old! Being a dad is a gift as they bring me so much joy. CO: Speaking of family, talk about the support of your family and the support of the community of Fergus Falls throughout your life and career. JR: I can’t express how fortunate I am to have a family that is unconditionally supportive. My parents are simply my heroes. My mom, who was probably the most athletic of all of us, is incredibly generous, and our rock who would do anything for her family. Aside from that, I couldn’t count the endless hours of golf and college basketball we have watched together! My dad is an amazing man who we can always go to for advice or encouragement. While many of my career choices in some ways followed in his footsteps, there was never an ounce of pressure to do anything other than what I wanted to do while always being so supportive in every way. My brothers Ryan and Justin were my biggest fans just as I was their biggest
fans. Ryan was a special role model for me growing up and Justin is one of the funniest and most thoughtful people I know. CO: When you have free time, what type of things do you enjoy doing? JR: Steph and I love to travel when time allows. I love playing with my kids and watching any sports–especially golf and college basketball. I have quite a large movie collection and while Steph and I don’t go to movies as much as we used to, we really enjoy going to the theater (and eating popcorn). CO: I know you are a big movie fan, so give me your top three favorite films. JR: Star Wars (The Empire Strikes Back in particular is my favorite), Jaws, The Godfather. CO: It is my understanding that you are quite an authority on Disney World. What are your favorite rides/attractions at the Magic Kingdom and who is your all-time favorite Disney character?
2001 National Championship Ring Ceremony
CO: Among your many traits, you are considered a pizza connoisseur. When you travel with sports teams you get to sample many different types of pizza. What are your top three pizza places? JR: 1. Pizza Factory in Monticello. 2. Cosettas in St. Paul. I will only give two because they are on a level of their own. CO: Okay, I’m putting you on the spot. If you could put together a ‘dream five’ of Spartan basketball players you have seen in your lifetime, who would they be?
Kevin Pearson: There wasn’t a weakness in his game. Ryan Retzlaff: A relentless worker who could score with anyone. His performance against Ridgewater in the first round of the ‘96 state tourney was one for the ages. Jim Schlieman: A great teammate who had hands that could catch anything. A supreme competitor and one of the best rebounders. There are about 50 more I’d like to mention if I had the time. SV
FALL 2018 SPORTS VIEW 45
DARLA THIEL
WHEATON AREA > COACHING
Darla Thiel has announced her retirement from coaching after serving as head volleyball coach at Wheaton Area Schools from 1989 through 2017. Thiel, a 1983 graduate of Breckenridge High School, compiled a career record of 554 wins and 218 losses, winning 13 conference championships, one district title, seven sub-section championships and two section titles. Her two state tournament teams finished fifth (consolation champs) and seventh. Thiel also played volleyball and basketball at FFCC from 1983-1985 and graduated from Moorhead State University in 1988. She is a fifth grade teacher in Wheaton.
ZACH HAIRE
BRECKENRIDGE / WAHPETON > CROSS COUNTRY
Senior Zach Haire of Breckenridge/Wahpeton comes into the 2018 boys cross country season ranked 11th among all Class A runners in the state of Minnesota. Haire was 25th in the Class A state meet at St. Olaf College in Northfield last season, covering the course in a time of 16:46.3. Haire also competed in the Class A State Track and Field Meet in June, ending up 11th in the 3200 meter run with a time of 10:00.22, setting a new school record in the process.
HUNTER GOWIN
BRECKENRIDGE / WAHPETON > CROSS COUNTRY
Breckenridge/Wahpeton senior Hunter Gowin finds himself rated as the number seven runner in Minnesota Class A Boys Cross Country, according to the preseason rankings. Gowin finished his junior season with a strong race at St. Olaf College in Northfield last November, placing 20th in the state Class A meet with a time of 16:41.5.
C.J. PEETERS
BATTLE LAKE > COACHING
C.J. Peeters has been named the new head boys basketball coach at Battle Lake High School. He will be a health and physical education instructor and will succeed Dan Peterka who spent 18 years in the position. Peeters was a three-time All-American college basketball player while leading Central Lakes College (Brainerd) and Jamestown (ND) to national tournament bids. Peeters spent three years coaching the M State (Fergus Falls) Men’s basketball team.
JADEN NORBY
ASHBY > BASEBALL
Jaden Norby was the catalyst for the Ashby 15U Babe Ruth baseball team, as they won the state championship by winning five games at the state tournament in Warroad. They defeated defending state champion New York Mills in their first tournament game and in the title game. Norby turned in a stellar pitching performance in the first game win, then did damage with his bat in the title game. He hit a 2-run homer in the first inning and a walk-off, 405-foot homer in the bottom of the eighth to win it.
JACOB BRIGHT
WEST CENTRAL AREA > CROSS COUNTRY
West Central Area junior Jacob Bright is the number four runner in the state according to the Minnesota Class A preseason cross country rankings. The Knights also appear fourth in the team rankings, behind Perham, St. James Area and Mankato Loyola/Cleveland. Bright placed ninth in the Class A State meet last fall and helped the Knights to an eighth-place team finish as they participated in their third consecutive state meet.
46 SPORTS VIEW FALL 2018