Kids get taste of Cougar football

CONTRIBUTED

“I’m very excited to be joining this successful program,and to continue to build on the already strong foundation,” Christensen said. “My heart lies in youth development, and I can’t wait to share my passion with this community.”

Christensen was hired by Activities Director Matt St. Martin to replace the retiring Jackie Rehbein-Manthey.

“Nicole Christensen brings a wealth of coaching experience with her, but more importantly, her coaching philosophy aligns with the Centennial School District vision and mission,” said St. Martin.

At her native Forest Lake High School, Christensen was the “B” squad coach and later varsity assistant over a nine-year period. She also coached 12U through 18U in their volleyball association and served as the group’s coaching advisor. The last two years, she was an assistant at Anoka-Ramsey Community College. She started her coaching career in club volleyball at Norwood Young America while in college.

At Forest Lake, Christensen set the career record for digs during three years as the Ranger volleyball team’s libero. She was also an Alpine Skier and a golfer, in which she qualified for the state tournament. At Gustavus Adolphus, she was a member of the golf team.

Dozens of future Centennial Cougars got a preview of the varsity football experience and a chance to hone their skills at the annual Cougar Youth Football Camp held Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 1-2. The camp was directed by Jeramie Burgoon, a member of the Centennial football staff, with drills supervised by juniors and seniors on the 2023 team. ”The youth camp is well attended,” said head coach Mike Diggins, “and a fun time for the younger kids to be instructed by the high school players.”