Bison Illustrated September 2014 by Spotlight Media

The New

REGIME Chris Klieman has all the confidence he needs to lead the Bison back to Frisco.

Meet Klieman’s Staff pg 70

September ‘14

CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER 2014 | VOLUME 9 ISSUE 2 Bison Illustrated is a free publication distributed monthly (10 times a year). Our mission is to help promote North Dakota State University Athletics, provide a quality and fun reading experience and to improve the way of life in our community. The publication is mailed to homes across the US and has newsstand distribution throughout North Dakota and Minnesota.

PUBLISHER

Spotlight Media

PRESIDENT

Mike Dragosavich

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER EDITORIAL DIRECTOR EDITOR

RELOADED

Chris Klieman has been vital to the Bison football team’s success. Now entering his fourth season in Fargo, he has been given the responsibility of revitalizing the coaching staff and preparing his players to take Bison Nation on another National Championship run.

RESEARCHERS/ CONTRIBUTORS

Josh Swanson, Joe Kerlin, Steve Walker, Paul Bougie, Andrew Jason, Cody Bickler

COPY EDITORS

MARKETING/SALES CIRCULATION MANAGER

MEET THE NEW COORDINATORS

THE STAFF

Get to know the coaching philosophies and journeys of offensive coordinator Tim Polasek and defensive coordinator Matt Entz.

Get to know more about the men responsible for leading and teaching your 2014 Bison football team.

AT A GLANCE BISON PRIDE

16 Bison Shots 18 Bison Pride 22 SHAC Countdown 28 Where in the World 30 Dynamic Duo 36 Chris Logan 38 Soccer Strategy 8

42 Opportunities Off The Field 100 Wearing History 122 Swany Says MORE info@spotlightmediafargo.com bisonillustrated.com @bisonmag facebook.com/bisonillustrated

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Joe Kerlin Sarah Geiger, George Stack, Nicole Smart, Brandon Sugihara

SALES MANAGER

Andrew Jason

DESIGN/LAYOUT

GENERAL MANAGER

Paul Bougie

PHOTOGRAPHY

Lisa Marchand, Cody Bickler, Gigi Wo od Brent Tehven Craig Holmquist Tracy Nicholson, Paul Hoefer, Paul Bougie, Kristen Killoran Codey Bernier J. Alan Paul Photography, NDSU Athletics, Tiffany Swanson, Joseph Ravits

ADMINISTRATION

Heather Hemingway

SPECIAL THANKS

Ryan Perreault, Wes Offerman, Ryan Anderson, Jeff Schwartz, Colle en Heimstead

WEB DEVELOPER

Nick Schommer

DELIVERY

Chris Larson, George Stack, Peyton Berger, Hal Ecker

FOR ADVERTISING CALL 701-478-SPOT (7768) or email info@spotlightmediafargo.com

Bison Illustrated is published monthly by Spotlight Media LLC. Print quantity exceeds 40,000 per issue. Printed in the U.S.A. Bison Illustrated does not necessarily endorse or agree with content of articles or advertising presented. Bison Illustrated assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Bison Illustrated is NOT an official publication of North Dakota State University. Send change of address information and other correspondence to: Spotlight Media LLC. 502 1st Ave N. First Floor Fargo ND, 58102 or info@spotlightmediafargo.com

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7/23/14 9:11 AM

FROM THE PUBLISHER

HERE WE GO AGAIN

Everybody Up For The Kickoff

Finally, the wait is over. Football season is here. Or, as a lot of you call it, tailgating season. I remember when I played for the Bison as a punter, I used to kill time before games by venturing out into the tailgating area. (I really didn’t need to listen to Metallica to get pumped up like the rest of the guys.) I remember in 2006 there was a pretty small area of tailgating. I mean compared to today, holy cow! Can we get some more space, please? We are all out of room.

“THIS IS THE NUMBER ONE QUESTION I GET: ‘What are you going to do when the Bison stop winning?’ And this is my answer: ‘Our fan base is becoming like the Nebraska Cornhuskers’ more and more every day.’”

In my mind, the fact that tailgating has become so popular tells me that the culture of Bison Pride is changing. This is the number one question I get: “What are you going to do when the Bison stop winning?” And this is my answer: “Our fan base is becoming like the Nebraska Cornhuskers’ more and more every day.” What I mean by that is, win or lose, Nebraska fans are there and supporting it because of how much camaraderie the program has provided fans outside of just spectating at a game. Our goal this year is to help spread that camaraderie through the expansion of Bison Illustrated statewide. We want to help develop more connections with people who have limited access to all the amazing happenings around Bison Nation. We hope these articles and photos intrigue new readers and convert them to fans. And eventually, the entire state will flood with Bison Pride.

GO BISON! 10

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My thoughts on the football season. 1. Look out for punter Ben LeCompte. I have worked with him in the past, and you can’t find anyone with a better work ethic and passion for good punting. He will make a huge impact on the field. 2. These coaches are GOOD! I’m interested to see how Tim Polasek’s offensive approach will end up. His passion for the game is insane. I’m glad to have him back. 3. I can’t wait to see who steps it up on the D-Line and adds some depth for us. Coach Kramer makes these young kids grow up fast and I bet we are going to find ourselves new all-conference youngsters this year. 4. I love that these players have a point to prove and that’s don’t underestimate this new team. The new group is going to step up and, as a bonus, they are having fun doing it.

Mike Dragosavich

NOTES:

The Mobile/Tablet App The Bison Illustrated Mobile and Tablet App is available for free. We include extra content like videos and links. Download it today at Amazon, Android or Apple.

Subscriptions Go to bisonillustrated.com if you would like a subscription to the magazine. (It costs $24.99 for 10 issues to cover our mailing fee.) It also makes for a nice gift.

Coming Soon… I’m proud to announce that I am involved in a group that is launching a new Bison-themed sports bar and restaurant called "The Herd & Horns." It will be a 5,000 square foot establishment across the street from NDSU campus in the Bison Block development on 12th Avenue. Our neighbors are Spicy Pie, Jimmy Johns and Café Delight. The idea of this restaurant is to showcase the Bison athletic tradition and create an atmosphere that reflects the integrity of the program. We plan to open in January.

EDITOR’S

NOTE

HELP WANTED FROM THE EDITOR

There’s always more we can do to help NDSU athletes. I’m not talking just donation money; I’m talking opportunity.

Joe Kerlin Editor, Bison Illustrated CONTACT ME

joe@bisonillustrated.com facebook.com/bisonillustrated @bisonmag @j_kerlin

he biggest tragedy in sports today is the fundamental belief that college athletes are molded for success after graduation. It is not my intention to downplay the importance of collegiate athletics to talented individuals who have been given the opportunity to compete at a highlevel, or to ignore the fact athletes are receiving financial support for a continued education past high school. All those things are dandy. My intention is to bring awareness to fans, alumni, business owners and to you, the fact that these athletes are in need of something money can’t buy and the university cannot provide. I’m taking about a shot in the real world before walking across the stage during graduation. Today’s educational system alone can’t help college students find jobs after they receive their diplomas. Ask any recent college graduate, and they’ll tell you experience is the most helpful thing you can show a potential employer. Showing specific examples of what you did during college can make an enormous impact on why you’re the perfect candidate for the job. This 12

takes time, and time is precious to student-athletes. College athletes, specifically football players, are kept from many opportunities to participate in internships because of the time commitment. Practice, lifting sessions, classes and study rooms make it impossible for athletes to see some kind of income while gaining meaningful work experience. Why not offer both? The lack of experience in the workforce is not an institutional failure, and this isn’t my time to stand on a soapbox to declare what I think is wrong in today’s college sports. It’s simply a lack of awareness of the topic. And I hope Christian Dudzik and Zach Vraa’s story illustrates the importance of giving athletes – football player or not – the chance to be integrated into a professional setting and given the opportunities I, along with my peers, were presented during college.

Go Bison,

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Joe Kerlin

Hot Takes The Rivalry Is Back C’mon admit it, you’re excited to see the University of North Dakota back on the Bison football schedule. It has been a long 11-year drought without a NDSU/UND football game, and we absolutely cannot wait for a chance to take back the in-state bragging rights.

Ciao, Lynn Lynn Dorn announced her retirement effective next March and we couldn’t be sadder to see her go. Lynn was so helpful to us at the magazine and was vital to our communication with the student-athletes within the SAAC program. It’s always tough to see someone leave our great institution. You will be missed, Lynn.

Final Four It should be noted this was written during the last week in August before Iowa State, so I have no clue who is going to be the new athletic director! The four finalists are more than qualified and what I keep telling Bougie is that I’m so happy I’m not on the selection committee, making the difficult choice. Whoever gets the job, I’m okay with at this point because of the structure that has been put in place and the wonderful people inside the NDSU Athletics office.

Let the fun begin FROM paul bougie CONTACT ME

701-478-7768 paulbougie@spotlightmediafargo.com

a feel it, don’t ya? It’s that new itch; although, it feels like an old itch. But this one is just a bit different. You look at your tailgating supplies with new excitement. Sure, you may have used them in Ames, Iowa, but this is a home game. This is our house. This is our FargoDome. You get set in that tailgating spot that you have had for years. or maybe it’s your first time in your own spot. Either way, it’s home. New trailers, new buses, new tents, bigger grills and new recipes that people have been itching to try. It’s another year of Bison football. For me, it is like a family reunion. I get to see people that I have not seen in a while. I get to congratulate a friend who got engaged or check in with all the different crews; Thor, Six Flags and Sambo. All of us back together in the west parking lot, sporting our plastic tailgating-approved drinking horn (at oneherd.com). We are all friends. But look around, there are so many, new friends in the west lot, thousands of people, but there is the one thing that makes us family – the Bison! Let the fun begin, or continue for that matter. And we want to see your fun! Send us your tailgating pics. Take a selfie with me at tailgating and maybe I’ll send you a Horn or put it in the magazine. Send your pics to info@ spotlightmediafargo.com. In closing, I continue to thank all of you who support Bison Illustrated with your advertising and loyal readership.

Paul Bougie Bougie is revved up for another year of Bison football.

THE TEAM

MEET THE TEAM We are Spotlight Media.

Every month, Spotlight Media brings you Stride, Fargo Monthly, Bison Illustrated and Design and Living Magazine. Here are the people behind these magazines.

MIKE

ANDREW

BOUGIE

Brent

Tracy

BRANDON

LISA

TIFFANY

George

NICOLE

Joe

Jesse

CRAIG

Michael

sarah

gigi

KRISTEN

NICK

To learn more about the team at Spotlight Media and our four magazines, go to spotlightmediafargo.com CODEY

HEATHER

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D â&#x20AC;˘ S E P T E M B E R 2 014

PAUL

BISON

FUN

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BISON SHOTS It was all smiles for (left to right) Hadley Steffen, Emily Minnick and Mikaela Purnell during the annual Fan Day at the FargoDome earlier this summer. Minnick is coming off a fantastic freshman season, with 202 kills last season from her middle blocker position. The NDSU volleyball team will open its home season against That Team Up North (UND), Tuesday, September 9 at the Bentson Bunker Fieldhouse. Photo by Tiffany Swanson

WANT MORE

Check out the Bison Illustrated App! Available for Android, Amazon, and Apple devices.

BISON

PRIDE

distribution cities

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bison territory

On July 23, NDSU announced its Bison Pride Flag Project. The goal of the project is to plant Bison Pride flags in every city in North Dakota, select cities in Minnesota and all 50 states. That goal has nearly been reached. Of the 350-some towns in North Dakota, 250 have been claimed as "Bison Territory," along with every state. Bison Nation can't be stopped, and soon the entire state will be engulfed with green and gold. To claim your town as Bison Territory, fill out the information at gobison.com/sb_output.aspx?form=24

Photo Credit Eric Gerst

The rules of the flag are simple: fly it every Friday during football game weeks, every game day for all Bison sports and the days following a Bison victory.

Bison Pride has spread its way across the world and into a military camp in Kabul, Afghanistan. Pictured left to right is Danny Carpenter, Brandon Grindall, Eric Gerst, Todd Schaffer

SIX

FLAGS

TAILGATOR OF TH

Tailgating is as important to Bison tradition as winning championships. Just ask Eric Yantzer. He took a step back from the grill to talk about his favorite tradition of the year and introduce his tailgating crew to the world. By Gigi Wood and Paul Bougie Photos by Heather Hemingway

E MONTH

TAILGATING TIPS Although the football season started Aug. 30, many fans are looking forward to the start of tailgating season. The Bison’s first home game will be Sept. 13, when they face the Incarnate Word Cardinals. For those new to the Herd fan base, here are a few tips for enjoying tailgating with 20,000 Bison fans at Fargodome.

Official Name

Six Flags Tailgating Official Members Eric Yantzer, Ryan Bergstrom, Dan Gatzke, Nic Prothero and Shannon Fagerland Location Row D 41-42-43

Alcohol: Allowed in lots E, F and G. Prohibited in lots A, AA, B, C, D and other NDSU lots.

Established As a Group 2009 As students 1990’s

Cost: Parking is $5 a spot, firstcome, first-served.

Signature dish Seafood Boil, Cheesy hash browns and Ring Sausage

Best Home Tailgating Story “The best are the hardest to remember, but the best home tailgate story has to be watching ESPN Gameday from our spots while they visited Fargo. There were too many people to count and what a beautiful day for tailgating.”

Best Away Tailgating Story

“When it comes to away games nothing beats a great road trip. However, debuting the trailer at Colorado State and then watching 15+ people exit the trailer upon return to the hotel takes the cake.” #leavingonatuesday

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Favorite tailgate ever?

“Why dont you just ask us to pick a favorite kid? It’s too close to call between Colorado State & Frisco III. Its tough to match the excitement of a championship tailgate.”

Whats next for your group? “Not planning got us this far, why ruin a good thing? I can tell you one thing, there is always something brewing.”

Any thoughts on this season?

“This is a good football team, we look forward to tailgating at the dome in December and Frisco in January, strap in, it’s going to be a wild ride!”

Hours: Tailgating ends 30 minutes before kickoff and lots close one hour after the game, or 11 p.m., whichever comes first. Grill it: Open-flame fires, including fire pits are prohibited. Propane and charcoal grills are allowed. Parking: Reserved spots open up 5 ½ hours before kickoff, while public spots open 5 hours before the game. Shut it: People using loud, abusive language and behavior could be asked to leave the event. Toss it: Fans are asked to keep the lots clean by disposing of trash in available bins. Vessels: Alcohol must be consumed from plastic cups. Beer kegs, party balls, open cans and glass bottles of beverages are prohibited in all parking areas.

Cass County Abstract Company Red River Title Services, Inc. Serving Our Customers Since 1910

Wishing the Bison a successful season! 35 4th St. N, Ste. 101

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SHAC

UPDATE

NORTH

The Countdown Begins Huge transformations are happening daily at the renovation site for the Sanford Health Athletic Complex. Darren Kruse and his crew are working tirelessly to complete the exterior before the harsh North Dakota winter strikes Fargo. By Joe Kerlin | Photos by Tiffany Swanson

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The north side of the building has been a tricky area for Kruse and his crew. The harsh winter created deep frost in the foundation around the BSA, making it a long time before the soil could soften on the shaded north side of the building. “We couldn’t start this area until well into June,” Kruse said, comparing the north to the south end. The north side also holds two critical factors for the construction crew: the north door is the main access point inside the building, and it’s where the electrical and maintenance system will be located. These will both prevent the north side from being fully enclosed this winter.

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking at where the old locker rooms were stripped down earlier this summer. The locker rooms will remain in the same area, strategically located in the middle of facility.

WEST

INDOORS

The biggest transformation from the renovation is on the west side of the building. Walls surrounding what will be the weight room and practice facility have already been erected, and the crew is waiting for more material to complete the roof. The far west wall is only feet from the east soccer goal on Dacotah Field, which should make for some interesting bounces this season. The west side of the SHAC is NDSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s number one priority because they want to get its athletes back inside the weight room as soon as possible.

Demolition is nearly 100 percent complete inside the building. The next step is to dig up the concrete floors and prepare to lay the new surface. Along with enclosing the building before winter hits, one of the top priorities is to construct an electrical and mechanical room. These rooms will be located on the north end of the building and will allow interior construction crews the resources they will need to bring power to all four corners of the SHAC.

SHAC

UPDATE

This is a perspective from the weight room looking toward the far west wall. This area has yet to be closed off, but the goal is to have it enclosed before winter.

EAST

SOUTH

Up until now, the east side has been the least touched of the building. The foundation has been dug for the exterior to be expanded, but work won’t begin for another month. The expansion will take place because of the concourse that will run around the basketball court and room is needed for the vendors inside the arena. The plan is to enclose the entire east side with glass, making the drive south on University more scenic and eye-catching for drivers.

The south end has been one of the busiest this summer as the crew works diligently to have the entrance’s exterior complete before winter hits. You can see the four columns are already placed and ready to be erected for the overhang that will go over the main entrance doors. There’s little to no parking in the south lot and the closure of the lot will continue next summer as the new parking layout is constructed. Be patient Bison fans, the new layout should improve the flow of traffic on the south side of the building.

COMING UP 24

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Next month, we’ll give you the lowdown on what’s happening inside the SHAC as the academic resource center and new weight room begin to take shape.

CHEMISTRY

QUIZ

EMILY

MIRON? ld What wou Miron

say?

he NDSU volleyball team comes into the season leaning on a handful of young players. Three are sophomores and all three happened to be named Emily. So we quizzed the Emilys to see how much they really know about one another.

THE QUESTIONS

EMILY’S ANSWERS

EMILY MILLIGAN

EMILY MINNICK

Shania Twain

1. Who is your favorite musician?

Shania Twain

2. What’s your favorite TV show?

Criminal Minds

3. Where in the world would you like to visit?

New Zealand

Europe

4. What’s your dream job?

5. What’s your favorite pregame meal? 6. What’s your favorite sport other than volleyball?

Criminal Minds

Europe

Cat whisperer... haha I literally don’t know. I’d love to be a stay at home mom!

Tim Tebow’s wife

Chicken and eight cookies

Scrambled Eggs and Chicken + 1/2

Spaghetti

Football

Olympic Volleyball Player

7. Who is your favorite actor/actress? 8. What’s your favorite sporting event to attend at NDSU?

Liam Neeson

Gerard Butler

Men’s basketball

Basketball

4 -8 1/2

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Emma Watson

Basketball

4-8

Your assets, your family, your future.

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T R U S T

C O M P A N Y

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INTERNATIONAL

BISON

ON S I B m fro

Photo by Tiffany Swanson By Joe Kerlin

AS THE BISON BRAND GROWS,

so does the geographical area NDSU will delve into for recruiting. Senior volleyball player Katie Anderson lived around the world when she was younger, until her family planted their stakes in Anchorage, Alaska. Since then, her family has moved again, and so has she. After graduating high school, Anderson wanted to explore the world some more. We sat down with her to find out how she landed in Fargo.

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INTERVIEW:

Anchorage, Alaska

Photo by Ken Graham

WHAT CAUSED YOU TO GO ALL THE WAY TO NEW YORK, TO STONY BROOK, AFTER GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL IN ANCHORAGE? “My sister actually went to school in Virginia and she loved the East Coast and spoke great words of it, and I just wanted to try something different, something out of the norm, because my friends mainly stayed on the West Coast. I just wanted something different, and volleyball gave me that opportunity, so I took it.”

WHAT ARE SOME COMMON QUESTIONS YOU GET ABOUT ALASKA? “I get questions all the time about the darkness thing during the winter and ‘How do you deal with that? Do you go to school in a dog sled?’ No (laughs), we have cars. No, I don’t have a pet penguin; I get that a lot. Stuff about Sarah Palin, which is interesting.”

WHAT KIND OF QUESTIONS DO YOU GET ABOUT SARAH PALIN?

SO WHAT DREW YOU TO FARGO? “I have family here. My dad grew up in Dickinson. He went to UND, unfortunately. It was nice because DU (Denver University) is in our conference, so we get to have a team dinner at my house, which is great because my team gets to meet my family.”

WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT ALASKA? “Scenery. I miss seeing the mountains. The summer, I miss the long days going on a hike at 3 in the morning and fun stuff like that; the outdoorsy stuff.”

“Do I know her. Do I go to school with her kids (laughs), stuff like that.”

WHAT’S THE BEST QUALITY OF ALASKA? “Just the people. Everyone is so down to Earth. The community is so great; everyone supports you and goes to games. It’s a great place to grow up … People here are great, too. It’s not that much different.”

YOU WERE A GREAT BASKETBALL PLAYER; HOW DID YOU CHOOSE BETWEEN THE TWO? “Actually, it’s one of the reasons I went to New York (Stony Brook). I was going to play basketball until February my senior year and I decided to switch, and with volleyball, people are usually committed by January their junior year. So I went to this recruiting website and (Stony Brook) was one of the teams that looked at my profile the most, and so I just went on an official visit and as soon as they offered me I said yes. I do miss basketball a lot, though. A lot of different things happened in high school, and I just decided I loved volleyball. I loved basketball, I just felt like I could do better in volleyball.”

HOW DID YOU THINK TRAVELING HAS HELPED YOU IN COLLEGE? “I love traveling. I think going to New York was different, culture wise. I think there was a little culture shock. My parents taught me how to deal with that and taught me to just take things one day at a time. Coming to North Dakota was a lot more my style. I like it here a lot more.” 29

BISON

SOCCER

By dy Co ck

Bi ler y sb to ho |P J. A la n

p ra og ot Ph ul Pa

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

Senior Anisha Kinnarath and sophomore Lauren Miller are a duo like no other. With a dynamic combo of strikers, the Bison womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soccer team believe they have what it takes to win the Summit League title, despite their underdog status. Another year older, another year more experienced, Kinnarath and Miller step into the spotlight to show why you should believe in the Bison this upcoming season.

BISON

SOCCER

TAR STRIKERS

Kinnarath and Miller have built a chemistry that has molded them into one of the most dynamic duos in the Summit League. However, it wasn’t always like this. Like any new relationship, good chemistry cannot be developed instantly. It takes time. Kinnarath acknowledged the struggle she had when Miller first came to the team. “The coaches told me she was a player who would complement my play, and I was like, ‘No,’” remembers Kinnarath. “I was stubborn. I was like, ‘There’s no way.’ When she came in, we didn’t click at first.” This lack of chemistry was a major reason for the Bison’s early-season struggles last year. They didn’t get a rhythm going and started the season (3-5). The inconsistency of last season was acknowledged by coach Mark Cook when he said, “We had the ups and downs early in the year, with some bad 32

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

losses and some good wins.” The chemistry Miller and Kinnarath have was built strictly by themselves. The coaching staff wanted their relationship to develop naturally and didn’t force a chemistry on them. Now, the two are better together than apart. Kinnarath spent two successful years on the team without Miller. Despite Kinnarath’s successful individual seasons, the team struggled to win without the presence of another great scorer. The two knew they needed to learn how to play together in order to develop a relationship that benefited the team’s success. Coach Cook also knew the importance of good chemistry between his star strikers. “With two strikers, they need to have a relationship about who is making runs where and recognizing the kind of partnership to combine off each other.”

Kinnarath recalls the chemistry built with Miller. “After a few games, we knew we could trust one another and our game progressed and we did really well together. That was when I realized (Miller) was a good player”. Their skills and synergy did improve throughout last season. It showed both individually and from a team standpoint, with an appearance in the Summit League Championship game, which they lost to Denver 5-1. This was huge for the team last season. “Once me and Anisha figured out that we could work off each other and really help each other on the field, that helped the team out a lot,” Miller said. Coming into this season, both strikers don’t want to settle for just an appearance in the Summit League Championship. They want to win it all and believe it is a realistic expectation.

Photo by Joseph Ravits

ANISHA KINNARATH Position: Forward Class: Sr. Hometown: Winnipeg, Manitoba High School: Kelvin High School Career Goals: 18 Career Assists: 13 Career Shots on Goal: 76

LAUREN MILLER Position: Forward Class: So. Hometown: St. Louis Park, Minn. High School: St. Louis Park High School Career Goals: 10 Career Assists: 7 Career Shots on Goal: 27

2013 games where both had 1 point (goal or assist) 8-23 vs Belmont 8-25 vs Minnesota 9-6 vs Idaho 10-11 vs Omaha

10-23 vs Denver 11-1 vs Fort Wayne 11-8 vs South Dakota St 11-10 vs Denver

Kinnarath and Miller are one of the same player. Kinnarath jokingly commented on how similar they are: “We’re nursing injuries right now. She broke her foot and I broke my ankle last spring. I guess you could say we do everything together.” Kinnarath appreciates having a great player like Miller out there to augment her play. “It makes life a little easier. It’s fun when you have a connection with her. Everything clicks. We get the ball and know where one another are. We know we are going to get the ball back. That is a trust factor that we have with one another, and that’s a good thing coming into this year.” This trust they have with one another is one of many reasons why they both think of themselves as the best striker duo in the Summit League. Expectations are high this season for the two stars as well as the rest of the Bison women’s soccer team. 33

CHRIS LOGAN

GET KNOW

Chris Logan

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

{

CHRIS

LOGAN LOOKS TO BRING

SUCCESS

By Cody Bickler | Photo by Tiffany Swanson

grew up in England. What is his (Coach Cook’s) Q: You What is the biggest difference Q: favorite soccer team? growing up there and living here now in the United States?

of the biggest adjustments I A: “One had to make right off the bat was

which side of the road to drive on. Outside of that, I think adjusting to the initial culture where soccer was a growing sport over here and not the major sport as it was in England. Learning the rules of football, basketball and baseball were fun ventures for me.”

Q: A:

This will be your first year as the associate head coach. What differences will this mean in your coaching responsibilities? “Coach Cook has been fantastic in giving me a lot of responsibilities on and off the field. The biggest difference I have noticed so far is it takes longer to write my title in an email than anything on the field. I am very fortunate, very privileged that I get to work with a remarkable group of young women every single day and I am thankful for that.”

is your relationship Q: What like with Coach Cook?

“It is Manchester United and I like Liverpool. The first time we ever spoke on the phone I told him I was going to hang up because I couldn’t work with a Manchester United fan. Aside from the teams we support, we have a great relationship. Our coaching philosophies are very similar. I would consider him not only a mentor, but a friend. There are big rivalries in the staff between Coach Cook, myself and Coach Kopietz because of the teams we support, so it is a lot of fun being a part of this staff.”

are your expectations Q: What coming into the season?

}

to the Bison women’s soccer team in his first year as associate head coach after spending the previous two seasons as an assistant coach. Logan made a name for himself at the University of Pittsburgh and at Slippery Rock University as the goalie coach, where he helped mold an All-American goalie. Logan looks to bring his knowledge from his playing time as a Semi-Professional, as well as his previous coaching experiences to the Bison in the hopes of producing a championship caliber team. Logan is more than just another soccer mind. Get to know the man who will play a huge part in the success of the Bison women’s soccer team this upcoming season.

“We firmly believe we have a championship winning team this year. Everyone knows that Denver are the favorites but we believe that we have closed the gap again this year. The team we have has more experience. I think the short term focus though is to prepare for each game properly in depth and to take it one game at a time. A championship isn’t won in 20 games’ time; it is won by winning the first game first and foremost.”

is the most unique Q: What thing you can tell us about your coaching style?

sounds kind of bad but I like A: “It to be very analytical and to take

emotion out of it. I like to look at it from a neutral perspective in terms of how we can change various aspects of the game. To see things that are going well and things that are not going quite as well and how to evolve the game as it goes on, and to make sure it ends in our favor.”

were previously an Q: You assistant at the University

of Pittsburgh. Why is NDSU right for you at this point in your career?

biggest thing that drew me A: “The to NDSU and the Fargo area were

the people. The team in particular impressed me. You can see here that the girls are a special group and certainly do remind me of one big family. From a career perspective I think that we have high aspirations here. I think that we can put this program on the national map. I am excited to be a part of that.”

have a great relationship A: “We apart from the fact that I hate his favorite soccer team.”

SOCCER LOGIC

23 MILLER

11 KINNARATH

9 Scanlan

16 Fenske

17 Arnquist

15 Yang

22 Veth

12 Johnston

7 Walczak

19 joyce

1 Bonham

The Lineup

Led by junior goaltender Sierra Bonham, the Bison women’s soccer team boasts an impressive lineup with talent at every position.

SOCCER

STRATEGY By Cody Bickler

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Much like the new Sanford Health Athletic Complex to the east of the pitch, the Bison soccer team is going through a transformation of its own. Head coach Mark Cook has always prided himself as a defense-first coach, but with an array of offensive firepower, the team looks to score more goals than ever before. But how are they going to do it? Here’s a breakdown of what the soccer team is going to look like this fall as they fight for its first Summit League Championship.

Park the bus

is a term that refers to when a team sits back defensively and lets the opposing team control the tempo. Teams often park the bus when facing an opponent who is clearly the better team, or when they have the lead and are trying to run out the clock. This strategy is similar to teams using the entire shot clock in basketball or football teams running the ball at the end of the game to use up the entire clock. Not always viewed as a negative strategy, but rather finding a way to win even when outmatched.

Revamped and revitalized The Bison have traditionally been a team that sits back defensively and looks to counter on teams. Previously, they have been known as a hard working team, but also a “park the bus” type of team. With their 4-4-2 formation, they would look to boot the ball up top to their forwards from their defensive zone.

recalls how they were perceived by the rest of the Summit League last year.

season. Coach Cook believes they will make a successful transition to the offensive style they want to play.

“The biggest satisfaction from last year was the Denver coach calling us the hardest working team in the Summit League and I think we want to build on that.”

Coming into this season however, they want to become more of the aggressor. Head coach Mark Cook

Since the end of last season, the team has been improving in preparation for the upcoming

“All spring we worked on coming less of a ‘park the bus’ standpoint. Can we maintain possession? Can we string passes together? Can we move more people forward? I think we’re a better team coming in from that perspective but if we have to play a team that’s better than us, we’ll park the bus.” 39

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; s easier to see the glass half full when the bottle is half priced.

CHRISTIAN DUDZIK

OPPORTUNITIES

OFF THE FIELD College is a time when young adults gather for educational purposes and begin the transition from dependents to independent adults. Classes are taken, supervisor meetings are attended and internships are performed. But for some Bison athletes, there's no time for the latter. Seniors Christian Dudzik and Zach Vraa are fortunate enough to have tackled internships and now have positioned themselves nicely for life after football.

By Joe Kerlin

Photos By J. Alan Paul Photography

CHRISTIAN DUDZIK Internship: Media Productions Christian Dudzik wants to make sports documentaries. This may surprise Bison fans who see number 35 soar across the field on Saturdays making big hits and catching timely interceptions. But the reality is, almost every football player at NDSU will not continue their careers in the NFL and will need a backup plan.

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CHRISTIAN DUDZIK

Photo by Indiana State Athletics

“

’m really interested in going to film school,” Dudzik said about his future after football. Although he admits the opportunities that open up after this season to continue playing football will choreograph his future, eventually, he sees filmmaking in his life’s plan. Over the summer, Dudzik completed an internship with Media Productions and was given the opportunity to get paid learning first-hand skills he will need to chase his passion. Dudzik shadowed videographers and editors, perfecting his craft for film in hopes of one day becoming a professional. Most Bison football players aren’t as fortunate to have this opportunity. “I’m lucky that this internship is paid because most aren’t,” Dudzik said. “It’s really tough for a studentathlete to not get paid in the summer. Especially football guys, not getting paid in the summer to do internships because we still have to pay for food and rent.” Football players’ scholarships cover room and board during the school year, but during the summer months, they are on their own. Dudzik said nearly every player on the team stayed in Fargo over the summer. Football equipment

“I think that (finding internships) is the biggest obstacle for football players that people don’t see.” manager Brian Gordon said they encourage the athletes to stay local “for offseason conditioning to stay with the Division I level.” To stay local, most players take up landscaping and construction jobs so they can afford the cost of living. The players are like any other college students who apply for summer jobs. The difference is they need to save money because getting a job during the fall and spring isn’t an option. Taking manual labor and retail jobs makes it difficult for athletes to participate in summer internships. This causes them to miss their chance to gain the valuable experience they will need after their football careers are over. Dudzik mentioned he passed on internship opportunities in the past because they weren’t paid. “I think that is the biggest obstacle for football players that people don’t see.” Dudzik explains it’s impossible for players to have unpaid internships and a job during the summer, between trying to stay at an elite Division I level with their mandatory morning lifts and afternoon conditioning groups. The NCAA made a list on its website of the values of college athletics.

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Number one on that list is college education. The opportunity to gain a secondary education after high school is one of the many benefits college athletes receive when they sign the dotted line on a scholarship. Most athletes use this chance wisely, going to school for free, earning an undergraduate degree and positioning themselves for future endeavors with whatever career they choose to enter. But the reality is, now more than ever, college-educated individuals are struggling to find career opportunities after graduation related to their field of study. According to a 2013 study by the Center for College Affordability & Productivity, 48 percent of employed U.S. college graduates are in jobs that don’t require college degrees. The more competitive the job market becomes, the more experience will benefit college graduates seeking jobs in their field of study. Graduates need to stick out from their peers, and one way is to present resumés littered with internships and accomplishments. Normal college students use the school year and summer to fill up their resumes, but football players have a year-round responsibility to train and are at an immediate disadvantage when looking for experience.

ZACH VRAA

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ZACH VRAA Internship: Flint Communications Senior wide receiver Zach Vraa was fortunate enough to spend his second consecutive summer at Flint Communications in Fargo. Vraa is a sports marketing major who juggled multiple projects while at Flint, from project management responsibilities with the Fargo Humane Society and Stephanie Goetz’s mental wellness initiative “Imagine Thriving”, to building client relationships with Bobcat. “The Bobcat audit is a huge project in and of itself,” said president of the Fargo Flint office Jodi Duncan. “He was always willing to do anything and everything that was thrown at him. He was very personable and he just did a fantastic job.”

ZACH VRAA

“He’s one of those people that we would definitely look at for future employment and could be a really good asset to us.” – Jodi Duncan

raa believes his experience with the football team prepared him for a successful two summers tasting the real world. He said his productive attitude and time management skills were at the forefront. His skills showed through. “He’s one of those people that we would definitely look at for future employment and could be a really good asset to us,” Duncan said. The impact an internship can have on a student can be enormous. Vraa is a prime example of when an athlete is given a chance to show his talents off the field. Vraa said he wants to play football as long as he can and thinks a sports retail company like Nike would be a business he can see himself working for in the future. Vraa was fortunate enough to have the right connections to be admitted into Flint and was lucky enough to be given an opportunity. Dudzik can say the same. 48

After working a summer with the multimedia department for Bison athletics learning the technical side of production, Dudzik’s skills have blossomed. “He’s come a long ways and he still continues to ask about cameras and ask us different questions. He certainly possesses all the skills he’d need,” Ryan Nelson said.

differently and to treat it like a film.” That’s high praise for a college football player who has never stepped foot inside of a video production class at NDSU. Dudzik is another living, breathing example of the channels in life that open up after college when athletes have the opportunity to take a passion and make it into a paying job.

Nelson is the new multimedia coordinator at NDSU and was a graduate assistant during the final month of Dudzik’s internship with Bison athletics in 2013. Since then, Nelson said he has had conversations with Dudzik about remaining at NDSU as his graduate assistant.

Vraa and Dudzik have positioned themselves nicely after graduation. But there are still many more athletes – football players especially – who will never experience an opportunity for an internship and never have a chance to mold their potential into something useful for their future.

“I think he’s going to be able to go anywhere he wants and be able to pursue this kind of, thing whether it’s NDSU or at a different university,” Nelson said. “I know he’s also discussed film school and that wouldn’t be a bad option for him because he’s got that creative mind that allows him to see things

Nelson thinks Dudzik’s internships will pay off in the end for the senior safety. Dudzik will have many avenues to choose from after football. His experiences on the field and behind a camera will place him above other recent college graduates.

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

WANT TO HELP AN ATHLETE LAND AN INTERNSHIP?

NDSU Career Fairs Sept. 4 Part-time Jobs Fair Sept. 11 Pharmacy, Nursing and Allied Sciences Career Fair Sept. 18 Meet the Firms Sept. 23 Agriculture Career Expo Oct. 1 Engineering & Tech Expo Nov. 5 Fall Internship & Career Fair (Minnesota State University Moorhead) Feb. 10-11 NDSU Career Expo (FargoDome) Day 1 Agriculture, Business & Liberal Arts Day 2 Engineering, Design, Science & Technology

UPCOMING

SEASON

SPORTING CALENDAR SEPT/OCT

SEPTEMBER 4 Women’s Volleyball vs New

Mexico State (Las Cruces, NM) 8 p.m.

5 Women’s Volleyball vs California (Las Cruces, NM) 5:30 p.m.

5 Women’s Golf Concordia

Invitational (Detroit Lakes, MN) (Wildflower) TBA

Women’s Volleyball vs Radford (Las Cruces, NM) 11 a.m.

6 Football vs Weber State (Ogden, UT) 7 p.m.

7 Women’s Soccer vs Iowa

State (Fargo) 1 p.m. Chase Morlock, Moorhead native, saw playing time his freshman year.

8 Women’s Golf Nebraska

Chip-N Club Invitational (Lincoln, NE) (Wilderness Ridge) TBA

OCTOBER 3 Women’s Soccer vs

19 Women’s Soccer vs SIU

3 Women’s Volleyball at

Women’s Volleyball vs Towson (Towson, MD) 6 p.m. Edwardsville (Edwardsville, IL) 7 p.m.

20 Women’s Volleyball vs

Kent State (Towson, MD) 10 a.m.

(SDSU Classic) (Brookings, SD) 11:15 a.m.

21 Women’s Soccer vs Drake

4 Football vs Western Illinois

22 Men’s Golf South Dakota

Women’s Golf Iowa Diane Thomason Invitational (Iowa City, IA)

(Des Moines, IA) 1 p.m.

State Fall Invitational (Sioux Falls, SD) (Minnehaha) TBA

22 Women’s Golf South

Dakota State Fall Invitational (Sioux Falls, SD) (Minnehaha) TBA

23 Women’s Golf South

9 Women’s Golf Nebraska

23 Men’s Golf South Dakota

12 Women’s Volleyball vs UMKC (Peoria, IL) 4:30 p.m.

13 Women’s Volleyball vs

Miami (Ohio) (Peoria, IL) 10 a.m.

13 Football vs Incarnate Word (Fargo) 2:30 p.m.

13 Women’s Volleyball vs

Bradley (Peoria, IL) 7 p.m.

14 Women’s Soccer vs Holy

Cross (Worcester, MA) 12 p.m.

15 Men’s Golf Omaha

Invitational (Nebraska City, NE) (Arbor Links) TBA

16 Men’s Golf Omaha

Invitational (Nebraska City, NE) (Arbor Links) TBA

19 Women’s

Volleyball vs St. John’s (Towson, MD) 9 a.m.

State Fall Invitational (Sioux Falls, SD) (Minnehaha) TBA

26 Women’s Volleyball vs

South Dakota (Vermillion, SD) 7 p.m.

Women’s Soccer vs Alumni Game (Exhibition) (Fargo) 12 p.m.

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(Macomb, IL) 3 p.m.

5 Women’s Soccer vs IUPUI

(Fargo) 12 p.m.

Women’s Volleyball vs Western Illinois (Fargo) 1 p.m.

5 Women’s Golf Iowa Diane

Thomason Invitational (Iowa City, IA)

10 Women’s Soccer at Omaha (Omaha) 7 p.m.

10 Women’s Volleyball at Denver (Denver, CO) 8 p.m.

Women’s Golf Denver Ron Moore Intercollegiate (Denver, CO)

Football vs Southern Illinois (Homecoming) (Fargo) 1 p.m.

27 Women’s Cross Country

Women’s Golf Denver Ron Moore Intercollegiate (Denver, CO)

27 Men’s Cross Country

Women’s Volleyball at Oral Roberts (Tulsa, OK) 12:30 p.m.

Stanford Invitational (Palo Alto, CA) TBA Stanford Invitational (Palo Alto, CA) TBA

28 Women’s Volleyball vs

IUPUI (Fargo) 1 p.m.

29 Men’s Golf South Dakota Invitational (Vermillion, SD) (Dakota Dunes) TBA

29 Women’s Golf South

Dakota Invitational (Vermillion, SD) (Dakota Dunes) TBA

30 Women’s Volleyball vs

South Dakota State (Brookings, SD) 7 p.m.

30 Women’s Golf South

Dakota Invitational (Vermillion, SD) (Dakota Dunes) 7 p.m.

(SDSU Classic) (Brookings, SD) 10:45 a.m.

2:30 p.m.

North Dakota (Fargo) 7 p.m.

(Orono, ME) 3 p.m.

4 Women’s Cross Country 4 Men’s Cross Country

Dakota State Fall Invitational (Sioux Falls, SD) (Minnehaha) TBA

12 Women’s Soccer vs Maine

Omaha (Omaha) 7 p.m.

20 Football vs Montana (Fargo)

9 Women’s Volleyball vs

Chip-N Club Invitational (Lincoln, NE) (Wilderness Ridge) TBA

Western Illinois (Fargo) 7 p.m.

12 Women’s Soccer at South Dakota (Vermillion, SD) 1 p.m.

12 Women’s Golf Denver Ron Moore Intercollegiate (Denver, CO)

13 Men’s Golf Maryland

Terrapin Invitational (Rockville, MD)

14 Men’s Golf Maryland

Terrapin Invitational (Rockville, MD)

Women’s Soccer vs South Dakota State (Fargo) 7 p.m.

18 Women’s Cross Country UND Ron Pynn Invitational (Grand Forks, ND) 2 p.m.

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Business • Tax • Civil Litigation Criminal • Family • Bankruptcy Real Estate • Estate Planning Probate • Personal Injury • Trials 53

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RELOADED

new head coach

Chris klieman

By Joe Kerlin Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography

Revelations tend to strike people at any given moment. Sometimes they strike while tossing restlessly in bed at night or when driving down the highway during morning commute. Chris Klieman’s revelation struck in the most unlikely venue. “I remember looking out at the field early in the third quarter during the championship game,” Klieman said. At that point in the game, the rout was on. Towson had hung around in the first half before a blocked field goal by star-junior safety Colten Heagle was returned by junior Kyle Emanuel, putting the Bison at the Tiger five-yard line. The momentum had swung in favor of the Bison. Two quick touchdowns

enters his first season at the helm with a newlook coaching staff, veteran players and high expectations. He’s no stranger to the pressure of his new position and believes the team will be ready for every challenge this fall. But everyone in Bison Nation is asking one burning question: can the success of the past few years be sustained? in a four-minute span gave the Bison a comfortable lead, 21-7, and the game was as good as over after they extended that lead on their first drive of the second half. “It was 28-7 and I was looking out there and counted,” Klieman said, reiterating what was going through his mind a quarter before he would earn his third championship in his three-year stint at NDSU. “‘One, two three, okay, there are eight guys out there that are going to lineup against Iowa State next year if they stay healthy and stay with the program.’” That mindset has spread like wildfire throughout Bison Nation, as fans getting into football mode look at the roster and see many

familiar names like Beck, Littlejohn and Heagle. Klieman’s confidence is reinforced by the experience throughout the projected starting defense. Two hundred seven career starts between the 11 projected starters is something everyone in Bison Nation can feel good about kicking off the 2014 season. Contributing 33 of those starts is linebacker-turned-defensive end Kyle Emanuel. “The philosophy is the exact same,” Emanuel said. “We are going to fly around with great effort and do our jobs ... Nothing has changed there.” Klieman agrees, saying he doesn’t anticipate any changes coming to the defensive personnel or strategy. 55

The defense may look similar, but there are several dramatic changes in the Bison coaching office. Klieman is entering his first year as head coach and has already flexed his power by replacing the coaching staff with men familiar with the Bison football program. Klieman elected to bring back former Bison running backs coach Tim Polasek and promote him to offensive coordinator. “He gets it,” explained Klieman. Polasek spent seven seasons with the Bison before making the leap to the FBS for one season. Polasek went through it all during his first stint at NDSU, from a 2-9 season in 2009 to a heartbreaking quarterfinals loss to Eastern Washington in 2010. Polasek has also coached through many illuminating moments in Bison history. He helped develop running backs Tyler Roehl, DJ McNorton and Sam Ojuri. He helped John Crockett get on the field for the first time and understands the importance Andrew Grothmann felt playing for the hometown team. Polasek was also at NDSU for the first two FCS Championships. He knows what it takes to win at the FCS level. As Klieman said, Polasek simply understands what Bison football means to this community.

Valley, said Klieman, and getting the coaches who wanted to be here was the number one priority. “It’s a couple things,” Klieman said. “One, when you watch us play, coaches say, ‘Wow, those kids get it. They play unbelievably hard and they buy into what you guys are teaching them. They genuinely love each other.’ Which is kind of neat to see when someone watches you on TV and says, ‘boy, you guys, that team never takes a play off. Both offensively and defensively, special teams; they’re all coached well.’ But I also get, ‘How the heck do you guys do it?’ And a lot of those people have never been to Fargo before, and I understand that.” Klieman’s own journey to Fargo was a surprise as Bohl picked NDSU’s greatest rival’s coach right out from underneath them. Klieman spent a total of nine years in two stints at the University of Northern Iowa in various defensive roles. In his second stint with his alma maters from 20062010, UNI won three conference championships and had a 3-0 record against NDSU. So why come to NDSU?

Now that Polasek is back, he will join Nick Goeser and Conor Riley as the only coaches left from the Craig Bohl era who Klieman decided to keep on staff. “Throw in a guy like Randy Hedberg who has been in the state of North Dakota for so many years and he understands what Bison football is all about,” Klieman said about his new quarterbacks coach.

Klieman’s father, Bob, had always been instrumental in his life. Bob was a former coach and tackled many of Klieman’s questions, whether it be about an injured player, disciplinary action or coaching scheme. Bob was the first person Klieman called after receiving his first coaching job. “I’ll never forget I called him up and said, ‘I just got my first job at Western Illinois,’ and I was going to make $20,000, and he was so ecstatic and said, ‘You have finally made it, you got a full-time job.’”

A recurring theme is familiarity with the new coaching staff. The Bison have a great positive perception from other teams in the Missouri

From proud father to unpaid assistant coach, Bob was there for his son when Klieman was at his first head coaching spot at Loras

College. Bob would sit in the press box because Klieman didn’t have enough coaches and “it was the neatest thing in the world” to see his father helping in any way he could. Bob also urged Klieman to take UNI’s offer after the 2005 season and the support didn’t stop there. Klieman remembers the conversation he had with his dad before making his decision to join Bohl’s staff and come to Fargo. “I said to him ‘Dad, I have to take this leap of faith at NDSU. I think this place is very special and I think I can learn an awful lot.’ He said, ‘Absolutely, it’s your time to try something different and grow professionally.’” Bob was right. The move to NDSU worked out better than Klieman could have imagined. “What you want to do is hire somebody who will put some roots down,” Bohl said to “Forum” reporter Jeff Kolpack in the spring of 2011 after hiring Klieman. “Not necessarily looking for a retirement job, but interested in moving the football program forward.” Klieman has confirmed Bohl’s belief, adding three rings to the trophy case and developing a defense that ranks in near the top of every statistical category. Defense will again be the strength of this year’s Bison team. And with the offensive coaches Klieman has put in place, he is confident the dynasty he helped build in 2011 will continue into the future. “No matter if it’s myself or it’s Tim Polasek or Matt Entz as the defensive coordinator,” Klieman said. “It’s our time now; it’s not somebody else’s time. Bison football and Bison tradition will stay at a high level.”

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Q A

q&a

We sat down with head coach Chris Klieman before fall camp to talk about this once in a lifetime opportunity. Here’s what transpired...

You guys aren’t picked as the preseason favorites to win the FCS so does that take some of the pressure off for you? “No, the pressure is never off as a coach. Doesn’t matter if you’re a head coach, defensive coordinator or an assistant coach, you always have pressure on yourself to get your kids to play at the highest level they can play. That’s what coaching is. There’s a lot of teams in our league that can win it this year. Shoot, everybody can beat anybody and we know that in the Missouri Valley, there’s no question about that. I know that we’re not picked to win it in some of the major polls and stuff. That’s fine. You lose 24 seniors and have some guys get injured that’s a lot of holes to fill. There are some teams in the league that have a lot more returners than we do that were either playoff team or playoff caliber teams. I’d be kind of surprised if we were a preseason pick to win the Missouri Valley. I think we’ll be somewhere in the top 3, but I’d be surprised if it’s not a Northern Iowa or South Dakota State, who have an awful lot of kids coming back, so we’ll see.”

was a big part of that. He’s a guy I have always talked to and communicated with. Terry Allen, at Missouri State, has always been a guy I always bounce things off of. I played for Terry after Darrell left and Terry’s at Missouri State and is a guy that I have a tremendous amount of respect for as far as doing things the right way, treating people the right way, treating his players the right way and not being bigger than the program. The program is bigger than all of us all the time. This place, there’s no question the program is bigger than everybody. I think that’s what is so important and feeds us at NDSU. Whether it’s me now or you guys talking to somebody eight years from now, 15 years from now, it’s always going to be tradition, tradition and that’s what is so neat about this place.”

Q A

Who was the coach who helped mold you into the kind of coach you want to be? “I have been very fortunate to be around a lot of great coaches. It’s not just one particular guy I was around for 15 or 20 years. I have a tremendous amount of respect for what Darrell Mudra accomplished when he was at Northern Iowa, and I played for Darrell and he obviously had his success here at NDSU. So he’s a guy I have a great deal of respect for and how he treated kids, how he interacted with the kids and how he led a football team. He did it in different ways that were very effective. He’s one that’s from the old brigade. And Bill Wilt, who was a defensive coordinator when I was there (UNI). I brought him up here as a consultant the first time we played Georgia Southern and he helped Coach (Scottie) Hazelton and I gameplan to get ready for Georgia Southern the first time when (Colten) Heagle had all those tackles. Wilt

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What makes NDSU like that? What makes us different than any other place? “Community support for one. Community support, our Team Makers group and our alumni base, just coming to the game day atmosphere with tailgating, going on the road and traveling and seeing the people that love Bison football. I haven’t seen that at any place I have ever been. It’s simple to say ‘Well, they all went down to Frisco for the last three years and each year it got bigger and bigger in Frisco.’ Go to a simple game at Southern Illinois two years ago and there’s 8,000 people there or go to Colorado State for a game early in the season and there’s another 10,000 people there. They’re such a great fan base because they understand the game, they understand Bison Pride and understand how important this program is to the fiber of Fargo-Moorhead, the fiber of North Dakota. They understand all that. It’s amazing how many places I’ve been that they have their lake home in the summer time and they have Bison football in the fall. Those are the two things they look forward to throughout the year.” How is the coaching staff reaching out across the state of North Dakota to make

stats 2013 (FCS Rank) Rushing Yards/Game 91.3 (3) Defensive Passing Efficiency 97.59 (2) Passing Yards/Game 164.6 (8) Total Yards/Game 255.9 (3) Total Points/Game 11.3 (1)

2012 Rushing Yards/Game 93.87 (4) Defensive Passing Efficiency 113.67 (17) Passing Yards/Game 140.60 (2) Total Yards/Game 234.47 (2) Total Points/Game 11.53 (1)

2011 Rushing Yards/Game 118.73 (17) Defensive Passing Efficiency 110.53 (16) Passing Yards/Game 197.2 (41) Total Yards/Game 315.93 (20) Points Per Game 12.73 (1)

Q A

NDSU North Dakota’s team? “By visiting with alums that come here and us getting out, whether it’s for outings or speaking engagements, whether it’s us visiting schools as well as our camps. We have so many kids from all across the state of North Dakota that come to our camps, that grow up watching Bison football or they live four or five hours away and every weekend they have their tailgating crew and they’re coming up to the game. Or ‘Hey, we’re going on the road trip.’ I can’t believe how many people have come up to me and said, ‘I already have my ticket for Ames. It’s a hard ticket to get, but I already have my ticket for Ames.’ People have said, ‘Hey we’re headed out to Weber (State) and we’ll be out there.’”

What are you most looking forward to in your first year as head coach? “Probably just the different challenges I haven’t had to face by being in charge of the whole program and how I will adjust to the challenges I will have. I have always been just a defensive guy and to be involved in the whole core of the football team and it has been really fun for me to get to know the offensive guys in the spring and the summer. Sitting down with them in my office or talking to them on the practice field or in the weight room. Just getting around those kids and letting them know that I’m a head football coach first and not just a defensive coordinator. I’m going to do whatever I can to make sure we’re clicking on all cylinders. It will be a challenge, but every year is different. Does the ball bounce your way? Do you have injuries? Do the guys mesh in the locker room? Do the coaches mesh in the office? All those things really end up deciding whether or not you have a successful season or not. You can look at 2011 and 2012 and we were playing and close from losing a couple games in ‘11 and a play away from losing a couple games in ‘12. ‘13, with the exception of the Northern Iowa game, when we came from behind to win that one, we had things go our way, especially in the playoffs. If one of those things goes poorly in ‘11, do we not recover? But we had such a great group of leaders and that’s the thing. Although we lost 24 seniors that were great football players and great leaders, they instilled how to be a leader to these underclassmen. There’s a lot of impact guys in that senior class. Heagle, Dudzik, Kyle Emmanuel, Littlejohn, those

guys understand and were great leaders on the field, great leaders in the locker room, even though they weren’t the captains. Those guys understand what it takes. Now, can they instill that into the younger kids because we won’t have a senior, junior dominated football team, we’ll have a seniors, few juniors, few sophomores, and a lot of freshman dominate football team. We’ll have to count on a lot of more freshmen than we did a few years ago.”

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What do coaches outside the program notice about the players at NDSU? “It’s a couple things. One, when you watch us play, they say, ‘Wow, those kids get it. They play unbelievably hard and they buy into what you guys are teaching them. They genuinely love each other.’ Which is kind of neat to see when someone watches you on TV and says ‘Boy, you guys, that team never takes a playoff. Both offensively and defensively, special teams, they’re all coached well’ But I also get, ‘How the heck do you guys do it?’ And a lot of those people have never been to Fargo before and I understand that. Because I would say the same thing until I have been here for three years and you see how you do it because you guys have a great community here. And if you don’t get up here, it’s just hard to recruit. If a recruit doesn’t have a great interest in you and just hears about you and says, ‘Boy, you guys win a lot, I just don’t know if I want to be in Fargo’ Okay well you gotta come up here. You can’t explain Fargo over the phone to somebody, you just can’t. You can try, but it’s hard. And then when they get here they say ‘Wow, what an unbelievable city. This is a great community.’ Once they get here and they’re like ‘Wow this is nice.’ It’s very similar with coaches. You can look at the staff that just left and the previous staffs from Craig’s (Bohl) staff before that you’re going to have success, you’re going to lose coaches – bottom line. I don’t care what sport you’re talking about, football, basketball, baseball, if you have success. Even (Tod) Brown, what happens to him? Shoot. If you have success, it’s no different than coming to NDSU as Billy Turner. ‘Ah. He’s probably not going to have a chance to go to the NFL because he played at North Dakota State.’ No. If you’re good enough, they’ll find you. If you’re a good enough player they will find you. If you’re a good enough coach, they’ll find you. NDSU is definitely on the map for a sports right now.”

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MATTentz

TYLERroehl

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CONORriley

TIMpolasek

NICKgoeser

NDSU 2013

NDSU 2011

JAMARcain

JOEklanderman

RANDYhedberg

NDSU 2014

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Offensive Coordinator

Tim Polasek He’s back! After taking a one-year break from the Bison football program, offensive coordinator Tim Polasek is back on the sidelines for the Herd. Polasek has already meant a lot to the program. He helped lead the Bison to its first and second FCS Championships while coaching the special teams, acting as the recruiting coordinator and molding running backs Sam Ojuri and John Crockett. After a year of FBS football under his belt at Northern Illinois, Polasek is back with more responsibility than ever before.

Progression When coaches leave NDSU, it tends to mean the program has experienced a level of success that gives said coach the credentials and exposure to advance to the next challenge. Tim Polasek was offered that challenge after the Bison took home its second FCS Championship in 2013. The following year looked brighter for NDSU as college football junkies were ready to hand NDSU 62

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its third championship, but someone who played an influential role in capturing the first two decided to forgo another championship chase and attack his next goal. Polasek’s next stop wouldn’t be another trip to Frisco. His trip was to DeKalb, Ill., and the campus of Northern Illinois University. “When I look back on it, I regret not

being there with guys like Andrew Grothmann,” Polasek said. “I had a big piece in recruiting a lot of those kids and not finishing out what that class started was hard.” Missing out on the opportunity to be there for Brock Jensen and Ojuri during their senior year was a necessary sacrifice for Polasek. In return, he gained valuable

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You can follow every Bison coach (even Randy Hedberg) on Twitter and you can follow Polasek at @ CoachTimNDSU.

Journey Back Polasek originally came to NDSU in 2006 as an offensive assistant. He honed his coaching philosophies from Bison greats Patrick Perles (now at Syracuse) and Brent Vigen after being promoted to running backs coach in 2007. It was quite the jump for Polasek, who was a record-setting quarterback at his alma mater, Concordia University in Wisconsin, to coach a different position group. However, he believes knowing the quarterback position can prepare you to coach anywhere on the football field. experience to utilize later in his career. One of the lessons learned fell in a category coaches see as most vital to a program’s success. “I really appreciated just getting a chance to see the recruiting calendar at that level and potentially where 1-AA football (FCS) will be recruiting in two or three years,” Polasek said. “I think I gained a great deal of experience in how to handle recruits and to just (put) a little bit more high priority early in spring and middle of summer.” The lessons Polasek has learned at Northern Illinois have become transparent in the way NDSU has recruited this summer. NDSU has 13 reported verbal commitments for the 2015 recruiting class, a number that is usually in the single digits coming into the football season.

“It’s funny where you end up,” Polasek said. “My demeanor, my approach to football has probably been more like a defensive player for as long as I have been in it, to be honest with you.” Polasek took his defensive-player demeanor with him to Northern Illinois and implemented his philosophies into his tight ends and full backs. Led by Heisman trophy finalist Jordan Lynch, the No. 16-ranked Huskies were undefeated going into the MAC championship game against Bowling Green. The Huskies were given their first loss of the season against Bowling Green and landed themselves in the Poinsettia Bowl to play Utah State. But from a distance, Polasek saw the changing of the guard at NDSU and knew this was his opportunity to come back to the program that had given him so much.

The recruiting game has changed recently along with the sweeping changes in media platforms. Polasek has kept up with the changes by becoming one of the most active Bison coaches on Twitter.

News broke of Bohl’s plan to depart Saturday, Dec. 7, the day after the Huskies loss in the MAC Championship game. Polasek knew the time was now.

“I think you have to do it,” recruiting coordinator Nick Goeser said. “But if you want to be in these kids’ ears, you want to tell them everything great about NDSU, then you have to be involved in the multimedia stuff.”

“I would say within four or five days after Coach Bohl took the job (in Wyoming), we (Klieman) were communicating,” Polasek said. Polasek added the timeline was difficult because the tight ends and

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full backs at Northern Illinois had five coaches in five years, but knew the opportunity was one he couldn’t let pass. “He gets it,” Klieman said. “Northern Illinois has a great tradition and a tremendous amount of success, but there’s a reason why he wanted to come back here.” The community, Bison Pride and the way Bison football carries itself with its deeply rooted tradition is why Klieman believes he came back. Polasek said the respect Klieman has for him will help him flourish as a first-year offensive coordinator.

Bison Way “Two peas in a pod” is the way John Crockett explains his and Polasek’s relationship to KVLY. And the same goes for a lot of players on this year’s offense. Polasek has only been gone for a season and is more than excited about the opportunity to get back to the Bison culture. By returning to the Bison program, a lot of responsibility has been given to him. Coordinating an offense that ranked near the top of the FCS last year will be challenging. But a challenge he hasn’t had to worry about is acclimating the new coaches to the “Bison Way.” There are five coaches on this year’s staff who have no prior experience at NDSU. But what Polasek believes each of the new coaches has going for them is their experience playing NDSU in the past. “The one thing I feel from all of them is just phenomenal respect for NDSU and what we have done in the past,” Polasek said. He also mentioned the help he will be receiving from Randy Hedberg, who has shared the same conference with NDSU for 14 years and grew up in the Peace Garden State. “I think instead of being a bridge you have to walk across, it’s more like jumping over a creek.” Polasek said of getting the coaches implemented into the Bison Way. “It’s pretty simple. They are all pretty proud to be here.”

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DEfensive Coordinator

Matt Entz Matt Entz made a name for himself at Winona State before getting the call to become the defensive line coach at Northern Iowa in 2010. After spending a year under Klieman’s leadership, Entz percolated his knowledge and wisdom for two more years, becoming the defensive coordinator for the Panthers. Entz spent last season at Western Illinois before agreeing to come to Fargo and back under the tutelage of Klieman. Entz is looking to bring experience, leadership and fresh ideas to keep the Bison defense on top of the FCS ranks.

Family First Life as a college football coach can be rough on coaches and their families. The constant moving around the country from school to school, the traveling to recruit the next program-changing player and the amount of time spent at the office devising the perfect game plan can make for unique challenges for any family of a college football coach. Defensive coordinator Matt 66

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Entz has faced the challenges head on for the past nine months as he adjusts to his new home in Fargo. “This was kind of a little different transition for the family and I than some of our previous moves,” Entz said. NDSU is Entz’s third school since leaving Winona State after the 2009 season. Learning from past experience, Entz moved him and

his family during the school year for the betterment of his two kids. “Any time you have to move, it’s how quickly do your kids adjust.” Being no stranger to moving, Entz enrolled his kids at Freedom Elementary School and got them in class as soon as he could to help get the kids acclimated to their new home. “The boys have some buddies

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already. It was great that they already knew the Klieman family from our time at Northern Iowa together,” said Entz. “My oldest son Kellen was actually in class with Colby (Klieman).” The Klieman connection has already been beneficial for Entz, who was able to get his boys in a baseball league this summer as his wife works at Sanford Hospital. With his family settled in and football season here, Entz says he feels like this is a place he can finally plant his stakes in. “We definitely have that feel that this is somewhere we want to be.”

Familiarity

Photos by Winona State Athletics

Entz had a storied career at Winona State behind legendary coach Tom Sawyer. The Warriors were 69-25 while Entz was coach and made three division II playoff appearances. In 2010, Entz joined the coaching staff at University of Northern Iowa to coach the defensive line under defensive coordinator Klieman. It was Entz’s first experience coaching under Klieman, but more importantly, his first taste of Missouri Valley football. “It will be valuable just because I have seen most of the teams,” Entz said. “You know what some teams have done in the past. You know what their philosophy is. You know what some of their tendencies might be as far as their play-calling and things of that nature.” Entz brings two seasons of experience as defensive coordinator with him to NDSU. 2012 was his first and only season at UNI that saw tough opponents and bad luck smudge a potentially great season. Western Illinois came calling before the 2013 season and Entz was named co-defensive coordinator under Bob Nielson. Macomb, Ill. was a much needed change of scenery as he led the Leathernecks to the best passing defense in the Missouri Valley, allowing 149 yards per game and the sixth best total defense in the FCS.

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Entz is inheriting a slew of great players in his first year at NDSU and will be under the leadership of the man who built the stout defense, so there would seem to be nothing to worry about for the new coach. “No, I am going to worry. That’s just my human nature, just ask my wife,” Entz said with a laugh. Attitude and determination have been at the core of the Bison defense and is what Entz preaches every day. “We need to continue to work through that and to continue to get better weekly,” Entz explained. “Hopefully I can help facilitate that and give them some ideas or answers, or solutions may be a better word to use. How they can better their game, better their technique and become a better football player.”

Integrating Spending four years on the outside looking in at the NDSU program, Entz knows second hand the great tradition at NDSU and is looking forward to becoming apart of the Bison legacy. Entz’s fondness for history correlates well with his obsession with football. “Success is success,” says Entz, who believes he has embraced being at NDSU. To go along with incorporating himself with Bison Pride, Entz said he will rely on the guys on defense that have already experienced the ceiling of success at this level to help him during his first season as coach. “We will be fortunate to have those young kids learn and to see those guys (seniors) operate,” Entz said. “To see their professionalism and how they handle themselves in meetings and on the field and being able to be coached.” Entz will invest a lot of time and energy on getting his players to play with a lot of pride this season, because he believes they have earned it. “We are North Dakota State. It is like a badge of honor to wear the Bison on your uniform.”

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Regime With over 100 years of coaching experience combined, these 10 coaches have been carefully selected as the brain trust to keep the Bison superiority in place. You have read about Chris Klieman, Tim Polasek and Matt Entz, but what about the others? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to step inside the FargoDome and into the coaching office to get to know the men that have the fate of the Bison football program in their hands. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome your new football coaching staff for the 2014 season.

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Atif Austin

Wide Receivers/Special Teams Alma Mater Iowa State 2003 SW-Minnesota State ‘03-’04, assistant secondary coach and inside linebackers coach UNI ‘05-’09, running backs coach Tarpon Springs High School ‘10-’11 Stetson University ‘13, running backs coach

“I always thought the Midwest was a great place to raise a family. Just the people in general, they are so nice. People up here love football and I think they just enjoy people. Certainly the education is important for my children and also it appeals to me. I don’t mind being in the Midwest because you actually get to see four different seasons. When you live in Florida, it’s basically only two seasons.”

Randy Hedberg

Quarterbacks Alma Mater Minot State 1977 Minot State ‘82-’89, head coach Central Missouri ‘90-’95, offensive coordinator North Dakota ‘96-’99, offensive coordinator St. Cloud State ‘99-’07, head coach Southern Illinois ‘08-’13, quarterback coach and co-offensive coordinator

“I have a number of friends up at UND on the staff up there that I have coached with in the past. It’s fun and that little rivalry will always be there, and now I’m on the other side of it so that’s fun … From back in the 90’s when the Bison and Sioux were playing, it was pretty intense. Now it hasn’t been played for 10 or 11 years, but I think there is still a rivalry there. It just hasn’t been played on the field.” 72

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meet the coaches

Atif Austin “It’s one of those things where I was in the end of my career at Iowa State and my opportunities to go play in the NFL didn’t pan out, and it was like, ‘What’s the next step for me?’ … I applied to every school and I sent out a lot of letters. I started getting calls on coming up and being a graduate assistant. It was at Southwest Minnesota State in Marshall, Minn., I got a phone call, interviewed and accepted the job, and the next thing you know, I packed up and moved to Marshall, Minn.” Photo by Iowa State Athletics Photo by Minot State Athletics

Randy Hedberg “I got done playing football and I came back to the state of North Dakota. I just got involved with it … I have only coached at the college level so I haven’t experienced any high school coaching, only through camps. I guess that started about two or three years after I stopped playing is really when I thought coaching would be the direction I would go.”

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Tyler Roehl

Tight Ends/Fullbacks Alma Mater NDSU 2009 Concordia College ‘10, running backs coach and junior varsity offensive coordinator NDSU ‘11, graduate assistant Moorhead High School ‘12-’13, defensive coordinator

“I think a lot of people are questioning where NDSU football is at because we lost so many people and the coaching staff is gone. I don’t think anyone should question it at all. We have built that championship culture. We are going to win ball games … NDSU football is going to be NDSU football, and we are going to work our tails off to keep that championship culture alive.”

Home Tyler Roehl is the only coach on this year’s staff who can literally call Bison Nation home. Before his record-breaking career as a Bison tailback, Roehl was a star running back and linebacker for the West Fargo Packers football team. He led them to state titles his junior and senior season in 2002 and 2003. After an illustrious career for head coach Jay Gibson, Roehl was apart of the 2004 recruiting class for second-year coach, Craig Bohl. Bohl’s second recruiting class ended up being one of the finest during his 11 years and included notable players like Nick Schommer and Heckendorf. At the center of this talented group was Roehl, who stormed to back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in his junior and senior campaigns and led the Bison to a 20-2 record during the two-year stretch. But before Roehl’s junior season, a new coach joined Bohl’s staff.

Tim Polasek came to NDSU before the 2006 season as a graduate coach after spending three seasons at his alma mater, Concordia-Wisconsin. Polasek was named the running backs coach before Roehl’s senior season and the friendship didn’t stop there. “He has helped me immensely as a player and as a person,” Roehl said of Polasek. “I’m not going to say he is hard to work for, but he demands excellence every day.” After a short stint in the NFL, Roehl came back to NDSU to be reunited with his good friend Polasek and the program that helped him reach his potential as a football player. Roehl spent the 2011 season as an offensive assistant before going to help former Bison Kevin Feeney at Moorhead High School.

In January, Polasek was named the offensive coordinator by first-year head coach Chris Klieman. With the new position, Polasek knew he had one coach on his radar he needed to hire. Polasek mentioned Roehl’s name to Klieman and the head coach was immediately on board. Just days after the Polasek hiring, Klieman hired Roehl to be the tight ends and fullbacks coach for the Bison. “It makes me really proud to be able to come to work, see that he is working here and know I had something to do with it,” said Polasek. “To help him get back here where he belongs; he’s not a high school guy, he’s a college football coach.” Geographically, Roehl has never left the area during his coaching career. But now, wearing a green and yellow polo and going to work everyday at the FargoDome, Roehl is truly home with the NDSU football program.

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Why was NDSU the right move for you at this point of your career?

Randy Hedberg

“Coming into a very tradition-rich program is very important. It is one that I followed for many years being a native of North Dakota. I followed the Bison since the Erhardt years, since I was young. I know a lot of the guys ... That helped me. Also coming back to North Dakota has been a big plus for me. I love the state. I know a lot of people in the state. That’s been helpful to myself.” Photo by St. Cloud State Athleteics

“Number one: Chris Klieman; just having the time and working with him at the University of Northern Iowa, he was just a great person to work with. I know that he is a family guy. I know the person he is, so just the thought that he had the opportunity to get the head job and I know the type of guy I would be working for. It appealed to him. The second part of it was knowing North Dakota State’s success and their tradition and what they have accomplished here; I knew it was a great opportunity to be a part of something special.”

Atif Austin

Photo by Iowa State Athletics

Tyler Roehl

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“I was in a great position at Moorhead High School, and the opportunity here was so great to be back. It was an easy decision at the end of the day. If it hadn’t come along, then I probably would have just stayed where I was at. It is the opportunity that presented itself that allowed me to come back so fast … a lot of those guys (on 2011 team) were younger players when I was here. I felt like I was a pretty good mentor to those kids. As the years have passed, staying in contact with some of them, being an alum, being a former coach, I feel like I have a pretty good connection with a lot of those kids.”

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Jamar Cain

Defensive Ends Alma Mater New Mexico State 2002 Sacramento City College ‘04,defensive line and recruiting coordinator Ohio ‘05, defensive graduate assistant Missouri State ‘06-’08, defensive ends Cal Poly ‘09-’12, defensive line coach Wyoming ‘13, defensive line and defensive coordinator

“I think the fan base is what surprised me … you get here and meet the fans, meet the people; it has been very welcoming for my family and I … I think the fan base is what threw me off; people just randomly come up and start talking about NDSU football and I’m not used to that.”

Joe Klanderman

Defensive Backs Alma Mater Minnesota-Mankato 2001 Minnesota-Mankato ‘02-’13, graduate assistant, defensive line, defensive coordinator

“The only challenge has been the change of what I have been accustomed to for 15 years. I had a great deal of autonomy where I was. I was comfortable but I knew I needed to step out and grow, and this was the perfect opportunity to do that.”

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Jamar Cain

How can you help the NDSU football program stay at the same level or raise the level of success?

“New, fresh ideas to help Matt (Entz) out any way he wants. I think everybody in our staff room has been a coordinator. That helps us out with game plans, different ways of looking at stuff, and bringing fresh ideas. We will keep everything pretty much the same, but the new ideas is what will make it even better.” Photo by New Mexico State Athletics

“I came from a place where we ran a similar system. Defensively we did a lot of similar concepts. I have spent a lot of time with Coach Klieman and the staff here, discussing ideas and different ways to attack offenses. I am familiar with the region. I have recruited in the area that NDSU has as its quote unquote ‘footprint.’ I follow very closely and have been hammered with the ‘Bison Pride.’ I understand the culture that is here and I think that helps.”

Joe Klanderman

Photo by Minnesota State-Mankato Athletics

Tyler Roehl

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“It’s a whole different level, from high school to Division 1 football, but you talk about being infectious, Coach Feeney is an infectious person, someone you want to be around. He is a very good coach. I say it is two different levels, because high school you really have to communicate, break down things into simpler steps and to really be able to teach. That’s what I take away from being at Moorhead; really having to teach the ins and outs of football, the basic fundamentals and techniques. Really being a teacher before a coach. Really him giving me the opportunity to coordinate the defense. To be a big time part of that coaching staff and being a leader in the weight room as well.”

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Conor Riley

Offensive Line Alma Mater Nebraska-Omaha 2003 Nebraska-Omaha ‘03-’05, student and graduate assistant Concordia-St. Paul ‘06, offensive line Nebraska-Omaha ‘07-’10, offensive line coach and rush game coordinator Sacramento State ‘11-’12, offensive line coach NDSU ‘13, tight end and fullbacks coach

Q&A BI CR

BI CR

BI CR Photos by Tim Fitzgerald and Omaha Athletics

BI CR

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What do you think you bring to the table as being the coach of such a traditionally strong position like offensive line? “There is some experience that I have coaching the offensive line. My experience is in an offense that has been run-heavy. Just my experience here at North Dakota State. I think what the expectation level here at NDSU, what the expectation level is at the position. Understanding what needs to be done. Those are a few things that I think Coach Klieman looked at when he hired me.” You have both played and coached the offensive line position at past programs, but what do you think is unique about the ‘Ram’ mentality at NDSU? “There is a lot of prestige in offensive lineman and head speed at North Dakota State because of the way that we played, even going back to when I played college football. I played against North Dakota State and our defense knew the challenge they had in front of them playing a North Dakota State offensive line. With the type of offense we run and the way we manage the game, I think there is a ton of responsibility with that group because it really is who defines us. You go around the country and talk NDSU football, probably the first word out of their mouth is ‘physical.’ I think that starts with both offensive and defensive lines.” You guys lost a few players from last year on the offensive line. What is the biggest challenge this offensive line faces coming into the new season? “The biggest challenge for them is learning to gel and play together with one another. It’s such a cohesive group. You need to have a familiarity with the guy next to you. You need to have a familiarity and trust level with everyone across the board and that’s not going to happen overnight. We lost a lot of talented players, but we have recruited a lot of talented players and it’s now their time to step up. Coming into this year, the biggest thing that we lose is experience, not necessarily this talented person or that talented person. Billy Turner and Tyler Gimmestad are unbelievable football players. The lack of experience is going to be the biggest challenge for this group of guys. Them learning to play with one another is going to be a big thing.” Are you guys going to be able to step up to the plate with everyone saying how many players you lost from last year? “Next man up. We have lost a lot of players but have recruited a lot of great players. I’m going to emphasize that point again. Just as you tell the guys who came in this summer, or the guys who have been here for a year or so, you weren’t recruited to be a backup. Our mentality is that there is not going to be a drop-off and that’s the way we are going to approach it. Do guys have to step up? Absolutely. Do returning guys have to step up and try to replace a guy like Billy Turner? It can’t be done with one pair of shoes. Everybody is going to have to do it.”

Defensive Tackles Alma Mater Wisconsin-Eau Claire 2003 Marietta College ‘03-’04, defensive line coach Augustana College (Ill.) ‘05-‘06, defensive ends coach and assistant head coach Minnesota-Duluth ‘07-’09, defensive line and linebackers coach NDSU, ‘10, defensive coordinator.

NICK GOESER

Q&A BI NG

BI NG

You have been here the longest out of all the coaches. What has it been like acclimating these new guys to NDSU? “It has been a change, but it has been a fun and exciting change. I am going on my 5th year and with the old staff, you knew what was going to happen. You knew what they were going to say. You knew what was going to happen at all times. Now with the new staff, you have new exciting ideas and thoughts. It has rejuvenated me a little bit. I am really excited about the upcoming season. I am really excited about the team that we possibly could be putting out there on Saturdays … Coach Klieman has done a great job of being the leader within this group. I am excited about what the new staff brings to the table.” Kenni Burns was the recruiting coordinator last year, now he’s gone. Why do you think Coach Klieman trusted you with such an important responsibility? “Good question. I think number one I have the experience of being here. I know what we have done in the past, what has been successful for us. I know the city, the university, and the important areas to hit on when recruiting to try and convince those kids to come to NDSU. I hope again because of the relationship we have had and the experience that we have had together shows that he does trust me and hopefully we get it done.” Last year when we talked your wife was pregnant with your child. How has the staff welcomed the addition to your family? “It’s been great. Life has certainly changed. It’s been great having a few weeks to spend with him. He is a handful. He is 9 months now, and crawling around, moving around non-stop. I certainly haven’t gotten as much sleep as I would like. But it has been a great addition. Something I have really enjoyed. I love having that kid around. I can’t wait to have him around our players and our coaches. I think he’s going to be a football player.”

Photos by UW-Eau Claire Athletic Athletics

Has becoming a father changed the way you coach at all? “I think it has. I have to do a better job of organizing my time. I love spending time with him. I love spending time with my family. To be successful on both sides, I have to do a lot of time management. My priorities certainly have changed a little bit more since he came into the world. I might be a little more excited to get out of the office at an earlier time to spend some time with him.”

FOOTBALL

PREVIEW

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CARSON WENTZ

FUTURE IS

NOW It’s hard to imagine the pressure Carson Wentz will be feeling this season. As Brock Jensen’s successor, expectations for Wentz are extraordinarily high coming into his first season. Amid the difficult questions and ridiculous comparisons, we felt it was time to let Wentz open up so Bison fans can really get to know the new man under center.

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

Q& A Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography. Interview by Joe Kerlin

Bison Illustrated:

What’s the one thing you’ll miss about the practice squad the most?

Carson Wentz

“Not much. I’ve been itching to play since I got here.”

BI:

I noticed you have a quote from Russell Wilson on Twitter. Is he a quarterback that you model your game after?

CW:

BI:

CW:

“Russell Wilson is kind of my idol. He’s a great role model on and off the field. I greatly admire his game though. I tell people I want to play just like him... only a lot taller.” What’s your favorite thing about NDSU that you didn’t know about the school growing up in Bismarck? “The fan support. I didn’t imagine the support being near as much as it really is.”

THE TALK ABOUT

WENTZ

“He’s a highly intelligent young man and is very poised.” - Randy Hedberg “Carson’s got a crazy arm. I haven’t seen anything like it.” - Kevin Vaadeland “He’s a great quarterback and he doesn’t have many flaws.” - Kyle Emanuel “Carson Wentz has to be ultracompetitive for us.” - Tim Polasek

BI:

CW:

What’s the one thing you miss in Bismarck that you don’t have in Fargo? “The Missouri River... and my family.”

BI:

Is Bismarck a NDSU town or a UND town?

CW:

“I would say it’s pretty split. I think it used to be heavy UND fans because of hockey, but lately I would say NDSU football has turned a lot of people into Bison fans.”

BI:

What’s your favorite summertime hobby other than being smart and playing football?

CW:

“Going to the river and lakes and camping.”

BI:

How fast can you throw the football? If you don’t know how fast you throw a football, then how fast can you throw a baseball?

CW:

“Haven’t pitched a baseball since 9th grade because I had arm problems, so I couldn’t tell you.”

BI:

What’s your favorite thing to hunt?

CW:

“I like hunting almost everything. Ducks and geese would be my favorite though. “

BI:

What do you miss most about playing baseball?

CW:

What was more rewarding: Class Valedictorian, NCAA Elite 89 Award or scoring your first college touchdown?

“Hitting. The feeling of barreling up a ball and driving it to the outfield is one of the best feelings in sports.”

BI:

Who’s a better baseball player, you or your brother Zach?

BI:

CW:

“I would probably say the Elite 89 award. They’re all close, though.”

BI:

What’s the funniest heckle from a fan you have received while playing football? High school or college.

CW: BI: CW:

“Nothing real crazy... just a lot of redhead jokes.” Why do you call yourselves the #Bombsquad?

CW:

BI: CW:

“Zach, but it may have been different if I would’ve stayed with it.” What’s Zach up to? “Teaching PE at Century High School and coaching baseball for the new Legacy High School.”

BI:

Why do you wear number 11?

CW:

“Because they wouldn’t let me wear #20 like I did in high school.”

“Coach Hedberg brought that to us and we all seem to like it. It’s because we’re throwing bombs all day.”

BI:

You’re 6’-6”, you must be good at basketball, who is the best basketball player on the team?

CW:

“Hard to say who the best is. I would say our starting five though would be: John Crockett, Carey Woods, Esley Thorton, myself and probably Jeff Illies.”

Has anyone given you a nickname that we can disclose? “Big Red.”

Bob

Leo

TRAVIS BECK

BLOCKING

BECK Travis Beck has built his reputation on doing the unthinkable. He was named the FCS Championship game MVP as a freshman, he jumped over the offensive line, blowing up the pocket against Kansas State and he constantly plays through the pain of separating his shoulder. The reckless abandon mentality was apparent in Beckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first start of his career against South Dakota State in 2011. Beck ran down freshman quarterback Austin Sumner and threw him down for a momentum-swinging tackle. The rest was history. Now in his senior season, Beck took some time to answer some questions about himself and his group of linebackers.

Career Games - 45 Career Start - 39 Career Tackles - 346 Career Tackles for Loss - 16.5 Career Sacks - 6 Career Forced Fumbles - 5

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D â&#x20AC;˘ S E P T E M B E R 2 014

Q& A Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography Interview by Andrew Jason

BI:

What is your favorite thing to hunt?

BI: Who took you under their wing when you arrived?

TB:

“Geese.”

BI:

TB: “Position coach, Coach Haze (Scottie Hazelton).”

What lift in the weight room can you lift more BI: What’s up with you wearing than any other linebacker? street clothes before pregame? “Umm … Bench press.” TB: “(Laughs) Oh no. There is a Which side of the family long story to that. I guess I gave you that toughness got here a little late.” gene you play so well with? BI: What part of your game do “Mom.” you take the most pride in? Why is your TB: “Playing hard.” Twitter profile BI: Would you rather have the picture a hit of the game or return monkey? an interception for a touchdown?

TB: BI:

TB:

“Inside joke.”

BI:

How many times would BI: After you leave the you say your shoulder has FargoDome, what’s the first popped out of place? thing you do after a game?

TB:

“10.”

BI:

How often do you replay BI: What’s your favorite cheatthat interception-almostmeal? for-a-touchdown in the 2011 championship game TB: “Donuts.” in your head? BI: How do you want Bison fans to remember Travis “Never.” Beck? In one phrase how would you describe your dance TB: “Someone that played hard and did whatever he could moves? for his teammates.” “One phrase? It needs some BI: Who was the hardest guy work.” for you to tackle in your What’s the worst career? nickname anyone TB: “Shakir Bell from Indiana has ever given you? State.” “Flash.” BI: You, Esley Thornton and Don’t you think it’s weird Carlton Littlejohn have an all of you guys kiss the arm wrestling match, who same trophy? wins?

TB: BI:

TB: BI: TB: BI: TB:

“Never thought about it.”

TB: “Hit of the game.”

TB: “Go see my family.”

TB: “Carlton (laughs). Have you seen him?”

JOHN

CROCKETT

TAZ

TIME When John Crockett finally strapped on the pads for the Bison in 2012, fans would never look at the Bison backfield the same. The tailback position at NDSU has been traditionally about power, strength and durability. Then Crockett spun off four tacklers, sprinting his way up the sidelines for a 26-yard touchdown run against Robert Morris and nothing was the same. Crockett’s first FCS touchdown did more than drop Bison fans’ jaws and revolutionize the perception of Bison running backs; in one touchdown scamper, Crockett rushed his way into the hearts of Bison faithful. We shot rapid fire questions at Crockett to get to know the man who will take the reins as the starting running back for the first time this season.

2012-2013 Bison Running Backs

Carries By Other Running Backs Carries By Crockett Yards By Other Running Backs Yards By Crockett Touchdowns By Other Running Backs Touchdowns By Crockett Yards Per Carry By Other Running Backs Yards Per Carry By Crockett

- 617 - 384 - 3,413 - 2,315 - 30 - 20 - 5.53 - 6.03

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

Q& A Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography. Interview by Joe Kerlin

Bison Illustrated:

John Crockett:

You’re playing in a 3-on-3 basketball tournament. Only using guys from the football team, who are your other two teammates? “CJ Smith and Carey Woods.”

BI:

Why do your wear number 23?

JC:

“My favorite player, a lot of people don’t remember him, Michael Bennett. He was a running back for the Minnesota Vikings.”

BI:

Why are you and Coach Klieman looking at each other like this?

If you are cooking for your date, what is for dinner?

JC:

“Showing people the future.”

BI:

What lift in the weight room are you the best at in your position group?

BI: JC:

“My expertise is probably a little bit of grilled chicken and salad with raspberry vinaigrette dressing, not too light (winks).”

BI:

What’s your favorite sports movie?

JC:

“Friday Night Lights.”

BI:

Who came up with the nickname Taz?

JC:

“A coach at a basketball tryout when I was in the 4th grade. It just stuck and it’s been with me my whole life.”

BI:

JC: BI:

Do you know who drew your Twitter profile picture of the Tasmanian Devil in the 23 Bison jersey? “Yes, I do actually. A cheerleader drew it for me.”

JC:

BI:

“Chris Board.”

BI:

What’s your reaction when you see South Dakota State’s Zach Zenner and Northern Iowa’s David Johnson getting all the preseason recognition?

What has been most influential to your success here at NDSU?

JC:

“Failure.”

BI:

Sam Ojuri isn’t here to compete against for rushing yards. Who’s your competition now?

JC:

“Myself or Taz. One or the other.”

BI:

You have a 100 percent completion percentage (1-1 26 yds). Do you ever brag about this stat to Carson?

Who’s the one guy on the football team who you can beat in a freethrow contest 10 out of 10 times?

JC:

“I don’t know, man. We have some beasts at the running back position. I’d say probably onearmed dumbbell incline.”

JC:

“I do. I tell him I should be the fourth string quarterback.”

BI:

Are you actually the fourth string quarterback?

JC:

“If they had to go down the line, I’d probably be third string.”

JC:

“Disrespected. Hungry. Ready for war.”

BI:

Oh wow, so in front of Cole Davis or Derrick McGinnis?

BI:

What opponent do you love playing most?

JC:

“David Johnson.”

“Oh yeah. Probably because of my arm strength and accuracy. I can pinpoint anybody. The stats don’t lie, man.”

BI:

What boardgame do you dominate most at?

JC:

“I’m a pretty good Jenga player.”

BI:

Oh. We never would have thought that.

JC:

“Me neither.”

BI:

What food is your guilty pleasure?

JC:

“I love ice cream.”

BI:

Anything like Marshawn Lynch’s Skittle addiction?

JC:

“It’s not quite to that magnitude, but it’s close.”

BI:

So should we throw ice cream at you when you score a touchdown?

JC:

“Yeah, you could throw ice cream at me. I would definitely munch on a little ice cream.”

BI:

Speaking of touchdowns, if you could have a touchdown celebration, what would it be?

JC:

“Oh man, see I’m not that type of guy. I just like to celebrate with my boys. I’d probably do a Tasmanian-spin, maybe jump and a flip. That’d probably be it.”

BI:

Thanks, man.

JC:

“No, thank you.”

BISON

10 0

HISTORY

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

By Joe Kerlin Photos By J. Alan Paul Photography

The Bison football jersey - a uniform representing strength, pride and selflessness. The jersey that's become a symbol synonymous with victory and tradition will be reintroduced this season. The profound and original font, Bison Bold, is one that only players for the NDSU football team have the honor of displaying over their shoulder pads. It's a new season, new team with new expectations. Why not include a new wardrobe?

101

BISON

HISTORY

Did You Know? The number 79 is the only jersey number to be retired at NDSU. Defensive tackle Paul Bothof wore number 79 from 1968 to 1970, but his career and life were cut short by a tragic hunting accident only two weeks before the end of the season. The fabric material is made of wool and cotton, which was great for the cold battles fought on Dacotah Field late in the fall, but hot and heavy in September.

Notables:

Bison won their first three championships in these jerseys.

‘60s - ‘70s

Did You Know? You can see the sleeves are the same length as the old jersey, but the material has changed. Jersey manufacturers changed the material used for football jerseys to mesh to the athlete’s body so the material could breathe easier. The one downfall: the mesh ripped easily.

‘83 - 90

Notables:

Bison lived their 1980s dynasty in these jerseys, winning five championships.

103

BISON

HISTORY

Did You Know? These jerseys were the first of their kind to use spandex around the sleeve. This made the sleeve much shorter and tighter on the athlete. You can also see the twill for the numbers. The number is made of two layers of fabric sewed on top of each other, a problem the program would address in later years.

Notables:

‘90s - ‘03

The green number 73 jersey was the last game-worn jerseys with the Snorty logo.

‘00 - ‘04 ‘04 - ‘06 10 4

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

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BISON

HISTORY

Did You Know? The Bison only wore these jerseys for one season. The yellow numbers on a white jersey made it difficult for broadcasters to read the numbers on the jerseys. The green outline around the number helped, but the white space between the green and yellow made it even more difficult to read.

‘05 Notables:

‘07 - ‘13

In the summer of 2012, the Bison customized its logo and narrowed down its more than two dozen logos to just three.

Notables: The yellow jerseys were introduced for the first time in the 2011 home opener against Lafayette. The Bison would go on to win its first game in yellow, 42-6 and were 15-0 in yellow, including two FCS championship victories.

‘11 - ‘13 10 6

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

BISON

HISTORY

Where Do The New Threads Come From? The Powers Manufacturing Company. This Waterloo, Iowa on-field apparel manufacturer makes uniforms for teams all over the country. And did we mention our head football coach’s older brother is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing? Scott Klieman helped us navigate the new jerseys and gave us the 411. Chris (left) and Scott (right) Klieman speak before last season’s FCS Championship game.

Did You Know? These sharp new threads use a font called “Bison Bold” and only NDSU has the rights to this original font. “Our department can create any kind of font based on a school’s identity and can get creative,” Scott Klieman said. Soon, every team in the Bison athletic program will display Bison Bold on their uniforms as the Bison brand continues to grow at a rapid pace.

‘14

3 Different Fabrics Main Body: Cordura - Hightenacity, 92 percent nylon, 8 percent spandex, knit to provide high-fiber per inch ratio for durability. Shoulder: Stretch Mesh - 86 percent nylon, 14 percent spandex, woven for more stretch, hard to grab, fits tight. Neck & Cuff: Lycra - more spandex-like, shine

‘13

Why wait a year? It’s not uncommon for universities to have new jerseys on different budgetary cycles. The old white cycle was over before last season, that’s why the green and golds were a season behind. The Powers Manufacturing Company’s clients: Air Force, Army, Ball State, Nevada, Wyoming, Fresno State, Oregon State, East Carolina, Virginia Tech, Virginia, Minnesota, Illinois.

10 8

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

‘14

Stay on top of your savings with S.T.A.R.T. Savings Today And Rewards Tomorrow 速

Visit one of our 7 Fargo/Moorhead branches or call 701.280.3500 today!

usbank.com/START Conditions apply, see a U.S. Bank branch for details. Member FDIC

Best of Luck Bison This Season You never cease

to S H O C K us with your abilities.

Joel & Debbie Peterson 803 28th Street South Fargo, ND 58103 Ph: 701-232-1991 Email: info@jdpelectric.net

KIDS

ONLY

Photo History

When Northern Iowa and NDSU played last year, it was a battle of unbeaten teams. The Bison trailed 23-10 going into the fourth quarter. However, the Bison did what they do best and found a way to get the job done. A dominant fourth quarter defensively, as well touchdowns from Zach Vraa and Sam Ojuri, led the Bison to a thrilling, late 24-23 victory.

A Look Ahead

1. 82 changed to 88 on helmet 2. Bison logo removed from pants 3. Color of armband changed 4. Number five changed to four 5. Letters removed from back banner

Answers

11 2

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D â&#x20AC;˘ S E P T E M B E R 2 014

The Panthers and Bison rivalry will continue this season on Nov. 8, in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Each team returns a number of players both offensively and defensively. The Bison return five on offense and six on defense. The Panthers return nine on offense and seven on defense. It should be yet another epic battle between two of the best in the Missouri Valley Football Conference.

KIDS

ONLY

B ISON

CHRIS LOGAN TIM POLASEK ANISHA KINNARATH PARK THE BUS BISON BOLD

114

TAZ PAUL BOTHOF BISON PRIDE KATIE ANDERSON NORTHERN IOWA

B I S O N I L L U S T R A T E D • S E P T E M B E R 2 014

TYLER ROEHL MATT ENTZ FOOTBALL SOCCER PITCH ZACH VRAA

WORD SEARCH

ERS

ANSW

in the October issue

117

STEVE WALKER

Walker’s Word By Steve

Walker

Steve Walker is back to give his thoughts on the upcoming Bison football season. Walker also gives us his opinion on the new staff and what the most important thing the football players can do this season to stay focused.

new season and a new era has begun in Bison Football. Taking the helm as commander and chief is first-year Chris Klieman, who is looking to make his first season as head coach a great one. Coming off of back-to-backto-back national championships, the Bison have a target on their back which continues to get bigger with every win. So what does NDSU need to do to continue growing the dynasty in Fargo? They will start by adapting to off-season changes and continue to play as a family. Change is often times a good thing, and Bison Nation has gone through a couple of big changes since the end of last season. The good news is, the cupboard is far from empty. Coach Klieman has been with the program for three championship seasons and knows the tradition of Bison Pride! Being familiar with the system should make this transition seamless, and looking at the new coaching staff that Coach Klieman has in place, there are exciting times ahead for Bison fans. What Bison fan isn’t pumped up to have Tim Polasek back in Fargo as the offensive coordinator? His energy is high, his knowledge is vast, and there will be great things from the offense this year. Flip over to the defensive staff, and take a look at our new defensive coordinator, Matt Entz, and his history of success at Winona State. The defense will remain strong and continue to play hard, fast and together!

Leaders on the coaching staff are great, but there needs to be leaders on the field and in the locker room. Who will be the leaders of this year’s Thundering Herd, making sure the team stays the course? If things get tough, who is going to step up and right the ship? There are a lot of possibilities when it comes to this answer, and starting to name off players would ultimately leave someone out, so I am not going to go that route. When it comes to leaders on the field, one thing is for sure, and that is there will not be a lack of motivation. The men on the Bison roster are a part of the best program in the and have learned from some great leaders before them. Lastly, as I wrap up my thoughts, it is easy as a fan to get wrapped up in the “4-peat” thoughts. After all, we have a great football team. But before that can happen, we have to make a run in the playoffs. And before that can happen, we need to focus on goal number one, winning the Missouri Valley Football Conference. The end goal for NDSU (and several other programs in the country) is a national championship. This goal is the result of the actions put ahead of that goal. First, play great every play. Next, win the conference. Third, strive for home field advantage throughout the playoffs. If those things happen, the rest will take care of itself. So as hard as it is to not start thinking about Frisco, Texas, we need to focus on the present and that is win the MVFC.

as hard as it is to not start thinking about Frisco, Texas, we need to focus on the present and that is win the MVFC.

118

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TEAM

MAKERS

Team Makers By Paul

Bougie

My Bison Story

Everyone has a story. President of Team Makers Paul Bougie gives us his story about becoming one of the most faithful fans in Bison Nation.

have told you, along with countless others, to join Team Makers. However, all Team Maker members who have joined the club had to get to that point of being asked. We are all proud to have joined and be part of the greater good. So, how did I become a Bison fan? The first thing was geography. I have lived my entire life in Fargo, more specifically, North Fargo. NDSU was always in my backyard. Growing up, I attended events ranging from the Shrine Circus to basketball games at the “New Fieldhouse” or what we call today, the BSA. I kind of had a feeling I wanted to be a Bison from day one. Then as I got older, I attended Shanley High School, and went to football games at Dacotah Field. I was in the band, and Mom came along with other parents to support the school. I got to see what NDSU had to offer every day. I watched the Gold Star Marching Band and the NDSU football team. Needless to say, I knew I was going to be a Bison. Then the moment came where I had to decide where I would go to college. Sure, I sent off applications to a couple of the supposedly “cool” schools, but I knew, no matter what happened, I was going to be a Bison. In the fall of 1980, I walked through the big gates, and realized I had made it. I was

finally a Bison. I had the honor and privilege of being in the Gold Star Marching Band, under Orv Eidem. I was part of the campus community and attended every football game on the south side of Dacotah field. After school, I still tried to be involved on campus, but, quote unquote, real life got in the way. Now what? Well, that’s when my dear friends Joan and Greg Deal told me about NDSU Team Makers. They explained how it all works, how my donations helped me with priority points and chances to go to exciting Bison events. I was ecstatic that I still got to help the institution that I love. I can support student-athletes and also help other parts of the university. I can’t tell you how many new and wonderful friends I have made over the years – Pat Simmers, Gene Taylor, the entire athletic staff, including President Chapman and Bresciani. Yes, Team Makers is a fund-raising organization, bringing in the money for scholarships and practice facilities. But, it’s so much more. It is about being part of something. I have stated before that we all love to take possession of something. Many people say that NDSU is my team. If it’s your team, then really make it your team. Yes, we can cheer. Yes, we can go to the games. We can tell all

the coaches and players good luck. Now is the time to take the next step, take that ownership and reconnect with your alma mater. Be a Bison Team Maker! See you all in the West parking lot, with my tailgating plastic approved drinking horn. I can tell you so much more about Team Makers, the friends, the memories that are just as good, if not better, then the ones from college. Once a Bison, Always a Bison.

“Yes, Team Makers is a fund-raising organization, bringing in the money for scholarships and practice facilities. But, it’s so much more. It is about being part of something.”

Paul Bougie is the president of Team Makers and is Associate Publisher of Bison Illustrated. 120

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SWANY

SAYS

Swany Says By Josh With every trip the Bison make, hundreds of NDSU faithful follow. Whether it’s to the FargoDome or Frisco, these are the moments we can look back at and remember why we are fans.

t’s a Sunday morning in late August. More to the point, it’s the last Sunday without Bison Football until we’re knee deep in Fargo’s wintery wonder stuff come January. Consciously, I decide to spend it at home. This particular morning finds me in my favorite chair near the window, basking in summer’s parting warmth, a couple tall mugs of coffee deep polishing off Hemingway’s “A Farewell to Arms.” As the book careens towards its tragic, yet inescapable ending, my phone chirps with a text breaking the tranquility of this last quiet Sunday before weekends are completely taken over by all things football. While most places are still serving

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Swanson breakfast, a good friend and tailgating stalwart – also a Bison diehard – has a question. “Who’s going to return punts and kicks for us?” You talk about Bison Nation and our fanbase, these are the things that occupy our minds after church on a Sunday morning. This only happens in two places, ironically, in the Bible Belt of SEC territory (think Alabama, Texas A&M, LSU, Florida, etc.) and the sun-drenched plains of Fargo. In the fall, along with the gospels and scripture, that’s part of our religion. I put down my book, think about it for a few seconds, and reply that I thought Darius Anderson would, mostly from an erroneous recollection that he did so during the Green and Gold spring game last April. After discussing tailgating in Ames, the texting concludes a few minutes later with me committing to a week-long road trip with an MVP group of tailgaters complete with RV to Missoula next fall for the Bison showdown against Montana at Washington-Grizzly Stadium. I’m already looking forward to kayaking down the Clark Fork River near the stadium and sampling Missoula’s many local breweries. But who returns kicks for the Bison doesn’t matter. I mean, sure, it obviously matters or my buddy wouldn’t have texted me on the Sabbath – at least not about football, maybe to talk about the Psalms. One of my favorites, by the way, is Psalm 133, which speaks to the importance of unity, family and friendship. There is a lesson in this Psalm, believe it or not, that is plenty relevant to our special teams. That’s the focus of this sermon, inspired by that Sunday morning text message, our special teams and Psalm 133. You find inspiration in the damnedest places.

Relish The Bison Trips NDSU has held a decided advantage over our opponents on special teams during each of the past three championship seasons. Take the fake punt that paved the way to our first FCS title over Sam Houston State or the blocked field goal that turned the tide in last year’s triumph over Towson. These were the result of little things – like noticing alignment on a punt return formation or a gap in the spacing between blockers – that turned into big plays in the biggest games. As the old adage goes, special teams are for special players. It’s absolutely true. While special teams on the football field are incredibly important for Bison Football, the special teams in our lives are incredibly important to all of us – like those we choose to break bread with on Saturday during tailgating or those who we travel all over the country with to support NDSU. This brings me to another Montana trip. In early August, I took a bro trip with two friends, both teachers and coaches in West Fargo, to Glacier National Park. We had just finished a 14-mile hike and were cooling off in the ice cold Bowman Lake, nestled between towering mountains and surrounded by thick forests. The lake was the finishing point for the hike. Two other bros, about our age, were hanging out with their wives and young kids on the shore. We asked one of the guys to take a picture of us with the lake and mountains in the background. He happily obliged and left us some parting words of wisdom: relish the bro trips. We had a good laugh at his lighthearted comment, swapped some stories about our trips, and after a few minutes walked back to our campsite.

On the walk back we joked with each other, “Hey, man, relish the bro trips.” Before too long, what started as a joke began taking on serious meaning. Eventually, these four simple words, relish the bro trips, became the mantra for our trip. While located in one of the most remote parts of Glacier, our campsite was, for better or worse, I think better, located only seven miles away from a place called Polebridge, which has one of the best bakeries, taverns and pizza kitchens in the entire western hemisphere. I’m not kidding. If you’ve been to Polebridge Mercantile, you know this. After 27 miles of mountain hiking in 24 hours, we inhaled two pizzas and a couple rounds of IPAs, retiring to the grass commons outside to listen to a mellow acoustic band. Full moon, the super moon was out, in the shadow of the mountains, tired but content, and just enough IPA for that really profound wisdom, we turned relish the bro trips to #RTBT. If you follow me on Twitter, you’ve been bombarded since then with #RTBT.

DINE IN TAKE OUT GREAT TIMES

Laying in my tent the next night after the fire, listening to iTunes on headphones, it hit me – RTBT wasn’t too different from Psalm 133, speaking to the power of unity, family and friendship. I am, and will continue to be, a staunch believer in the soaring power of all three. In this kind of setting, stress melts away, and I thought about what I was thankful for. Besides the strengthened bond with two good bros, with football season on the horizon, in Big Sky country, I thought about the Bison Family and the journeys we’ve shared the past few years and the journey we’re about to share this season. Conveniently, #RTBT easily converts to Relish The Bison Trips. Like many of you, fall is my season. The weekends are planned around Bison Football. I’ve met so many new friends because of tailgating and Bison trips, and look forward to meeting many more this year. I have no quiet weekends until January, my weekends are filled with football until then, and I couldn’t be happier. Unity, family, friendship. Together, we stand, one Herd, everybody up for the kickoff, the march is on!

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*Swanson is a native of Maddock, ND, a proud NDSU alum and a life-long Bison fan.

POP

QUIZ What’s your favorite song to listen to before competition?

What’s your favorite way to pass time while traveling with the team?

What’s your favorite stadium/ track/course to compete at?

It changes all the time, I like almost anything.

Sightseeing/touring the different cities we’re in with the team.

NCAAs at Hayward Field, or Drake Relays.

Paige Stratioti Stratioti played a key role in a historic track and field season, earning second team All-American honors with the 4x400 relay team. Stratioti will look to continue her success this fall on the cross country team.

Track & Field

Adam Schueller Schueller will crack the starting lineup at left guard for the first time this season. The senior has played in 17 games throughout his career, getting most of his reps on special teams.

Explosions In The Sky – “Your Hand in Mine”

Reading, Twitter or texting

KState or Minnesota

FOOTBALL

Trevor Gebhart Gebhart has seen action at wide receiver every season since 2011 and has played a critical role on the offense as a blocker on the edge. The senior has 61 career receptions and has found the endzone twice.

It changes week to week, but it’s usually one that’s upbeat with a lot of bass.

I either listen to music or talk to my teammates.

“Ready or Not” - Britt Nicole & Lacrae

Hanging out with the girls, having some good laughs and making memories as a team.

Creighton

I don’t listen to any song in particular. But I like to listen and watch this YouTube video that is called “I am a champion”

Definitely listen to music.

My favorite golf course is Minnehaha, in Sioux Falls, SD

Other than the FargoDome, the stadium in Frisco

Football

Tristyn Walczak As a senior captain, Walczak will be given a lot of responsibility on defense for the Bison. She has started 40 games in her career and is one of the most experienced Bison soccer players on the 2014 team.

SOCCER

Ursinio Puga The Spaniard is coming off a good season for the Bison golf team and will be relied on to contribute to an experienced team. He golfed in all 10 events last season, placing in the top25 four times.

GOLF

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What’s the hardest class you’re taking this semester?

Writing/Humanities? I guess we’ll see.

Governance and Policy in Sport

Strategic Management

Who’s your favorite person to room with while on the road?

Ashley Tingelstad. She’s ridiculous.

Zac Johnson (#68)

Zach Vraa. We have similar routines. I like Nate Moody too, but his feet stink.

Hearing & Vestibular Disorders

My favorite people to room with are the freshmen and people I haven’t roomed with before. I love getting to know my teammates better!

Environmental Nanotechnology

Connor Holland