Spring 2014 Bulletin

Volume 83, Issue 3 Spring 2014

64346 Cover.qxd:241352 Cover 4/22/14 11:32 AM Page 1

THE BULLETINOfficial Publication of the

Minnesota State High School League2100 Freeway Boulevard

Brooklyn Center, MN 55430-1735763-560-2262

http://www.MSHSL.org

Information within this Bulletinmay be reprinted only with the

permission of the MSHSL.

Volume 83, Issue 3Spring 2014

Editorial StaffEditor:

Howard W. VoigtAssistant Editor:Ellen Rajkowski

Contributing Editors:David SteadKevin Merkle

Lisa LissimoreCraig Perry

Jody RedmanJohn MilleaRich Matter

Chris Franson

Board of DirectorsRegions 1-2A

Scott McCready, St. CharlesRegions 3-4A

Bob Grey, MontevideoRegions 5-6A

Emmett Keenan, St. Cloud CathedralRegions 7-8A

Mike Kolness, Ada-BorupRegions 1-2AA

Tom Graupmann, NorthfieldRegions 3-4AA

Mike Manning, RosemountRegions 5-6AA

Dan Johnson, HopkinsRegions 7-8AA

Mike Olson, Little FallsState School Boards Assn.

Betsy Anderson, HopkinsDeborah Pauly, Jordan

MN Assn. of Secondary PrincipalsJohn Hamann, Underwood

Erich Martens, Sauk Rapids-RiceBoys Sports

Mark Solberg, Cambridge-IsantiGirls Sports

Shelly Hotzler, Jackson County CentralMN Music Educators Assn.Lane Powell, Fillmore Central

Speech Assn. of MNChris McDonald, EaganGovernor's Appointees

Lea B. Olsen, MinneapolisSteven Beals, Montevideo

Laurie Esau, OronoSteve Eklund, Braham

Printed byCarlson Print Group

7490 Golden Triangle DriveEden Prairie, MN 55344

The MSHSL Bulletin is publishedin Fall, Winter and Spring and

is designed to meet the needs ofthe 525 member Schools.

League Office Personnel

The Minnesota State High School League Officehas been established to provide special services tothe member schools. Listed below are the officepersonnel:

Extension / Voice MailboxExecutive Director - David Stead ........................ 480

Executive Assistant - Lynne Johnson ........... 490Associate Director - Jody Redman ..................... 481

Administrative Assistant - Amie Ince ............. 491Associate Director - Kevin Merkle ...................... 484

Administrative Assistant - Amanda Johnson 494Officials Coordinator- Katie Schulte .............. 496

Associate Director - Craig Perry ......................... 482Administrative Assistant - Susi Hollenbeck ... 492

Associate Director - Lisa Lissimore .................... 483Administrative Assistant - Sheila Robinson .. 493

Director of Information - Howard W. Voigt .......... 485Assistant - Ellen Rajkowski ........................... 542

Assistant Director - Richard Matter ..................... 497Accounting Assistant - Sharon Bahma ......... 541Ticketing Assistant - Nancy Myers ................ 487

Assistant Director - Chris Franson ...................... 488Web Site Coordinator - Nancy Etter .............. 551Graphic Designer - Tracie Bressler ............... 552

Media Specialist - John Millea ............................ 554Program Specialist - Amy Doherty ..................... 495Office Manager - Kristi Vesall ............................. 489

Administrative Assistant - Yvonne Walsh ..... 486Receptionist - Ann Bailey .............................. 540

The MSHSL Logo is a registered mark of the organizationand use in any manner is prohibited unless prior approval is

obtained from the League.

Schedule of Board of Directors Meetings

October 3 ................................. MSHSL OfficeBrooklyn Center

December 5 ............................. MSHSL OfficeBrooklyn Center

January 23 ............................... MSHSL OfficeBrooklyn Center

April 3 ....................................... MSHSL OfficeBrooklyn Center

June 2 ...................................... MSHSL OfficeBrooklyn Center

Representative Assembly Meeting

May 12 ........... Edinburgh USA, Brooklyn Park

When calling the League Office (763-560-2262),direct your requests to staff persons as designated:

Accounts Payable .............................................................. Sharon BahmaAccounts Receivable ......................................................... Yvonne WalshActivity / Late Registrations ................................................ Chris FransonActivity Section Assignments ............................................. Chris FransonAdministrative Regions ........................................................... Dave SteadAnyone Can Save A Life .................................................... Jody RedmanArchive Information ........................................................ Howard W. VoigtAthletic / Activity Director Advisory Committee ................... Kevin MerkleBoard of Directors Information ............................................... Dave SteadCamps and Clinics .................................................................. Craig PerryCharter Officials Associations .............................................. Kevin MerkleChemical Rule Interpretations ................................................ Craig PerryCooperative Sponsorship ................................................. Lynne JohnsonDebate, Speech, One Act Play & Music Judges ............... Chris FransonRegistration of Debate, Speech, One Act Play & Music Judges ........... Nancy EtterExCEL Program ................................................................. Lisa LissimoreFine Arts Rules Interp. (Debate, Speech & Music) ........... Chris FransonFine Arts Rules Interp. (One Act & Visual Arts) ................ Chris FransonGender Equity ......................................................................... Dave SteadGeneral Information on MSHSL ............................................. Dave SteadHall of Fame ....................................................................... Lisa LissimoreInsurance ................................................................................. Rich MatterInterstate Sanctions ................................................................ Dave SteadLeague Publications ...................................................... Howard W. VoigtMarketing and Promotions ................................................. Lisa LissimoreMembership Information ................................................... Lynne JohnsonNews Media Services .................................................... Howard W. VoigtNon-School Competition ......................................................... Craig PerryOffice Management ................................................................. Kristi VesallOfficials Program .................................................................. Kevin MerklePSAs and TV Visuals ..................................................... Howard W. VoigtRegistration of Officials ....................................................... Katie SchulteResults and Records ..................................................... Howard W. VoigtRulebooks, Supplies, Awards ............................................ Yvonne WalshRules Interpretation Meetings ............................................. Katie SchulteSchool Eligibility ...................................................................... Craig PerrySports Medicine Advisory Committee .................................... Craig PerrySpotlight on Scholarship Program ..................................... Lisa LissimoreStudent Ejections ..................................................................... Ann BaileyStudent Eligibility .................................................................... Craig PerrySupplemental Allowances ...................................................... Kristi VesallTEAM UP Program ............................................................. Jody RedmanTicket Assistant ..................................................................... Nancy MyersTriple “A” Award .................................................................. Jody RedmanWeb Site Development ....................................................... Chris FransonWeb Site Assistance ............................................................... Nancy Etter

Activity Rule Interpretations,Coach Incidents Reports, andActivity Advisory Committees

Adapted Athletics (Bowling, Floor Hockey, Soccer, Softball) ... Rich MatterAlpine Skiing / Boys’ & Girls’ .................................................. Rich MatterBadminton / Girls’ .............................................................. Lisa LissimoreBaseball ................................................................................. Kevin MerkleBasketball / Boys’ ................................................................. Kevin MerkleBasketball / Girls’ ............................................................... Lisa LissimoreCheerleaders ....................................................................... Jody RedmanClay Target Shooting .......................................................................... TBDCross Country Running / Boys’ & Girls’ ............................ Lisa LissimoreDance Team / Girls’ .............................................................. Kevin MerkleDebate ................................................................................. Chris FransonFootball .................................................................................. Kevin MerkleGolf / Boys’ & Girls’ ................................................................. Dave SteadGymnastics / Girls’ .............................................................. Jody RedmanIce Hockey / Boys’ & Girls’ ..................................................... Craig PerryLacrosse / Boys' & Girls’ ......................................................... Rich MatterMusic ................................................................................... Chris FransonNordic Ski Racing / Boys’ & Girls’ .......................................... Rich MatterOne Act Play ....................................................................... Chris FransonRobotics ................................................................................ Amy DohertySoccer / Boys’ & Girls’ ........................................................ Jody RedmanSoftball / Girls’ .................................................................... Lisa LissimoreSpeech ................................................................................ Chris FransonSwimming and Diving / Boys’ & Girls’ ............................... Lisa LissimoreSynchronized Swimming / Girls’ ........................................ Lisa LissimoreTennis / Boys’ & Girls’ ............................................................ Craig PerryTrack & Field / Boys’ & Girls’ ............................................. Jody RedmanVisual Arts ........................................................................... Chris FransonVolleyball / Girls’ ................................................................. Jody RedmanWrestling ................................................................................. Craig Perry

www.MSHSL.org Spring 2014 Bulletin 1

Dave’s DialogueDave’s DialogueDave’s DialogueDave’s DialogueDave’s DialogueIt’s part of their profession ..............................................................................................2

News and FNews and FNews and FNews and FNews and FeatureseatureseatureseatureseaturesKraemer, John, Sorensen, Dudley earn Triple A Awards ................................................3‘Show them what you’re made of’ ..................................................................................8ExCEL students building stronger, healthier, safer communities .................................11League the presenting partner for clay target state tournament .................................14Committee chosen to create districts for football scheduling .....................................15

Athletic ActivitiesAthletic ActivitiesAthletic ActivitiesAthletic ActivitiesAthletic ActivitiesConsult on-site medical personnel when making weather-related decisions ..............16Why do we coach the way we do? ...............................................................................18Concussion-proof products? - A word of caution .........................................................19Football policies going to Representative Assembly ....................................................20Stretching — three types explained ..............................................................................21

OfficialsOfficialsOfficialsOfficialsOfficialsIndividual officials and associations recognized ...........................................................24

AlsoAlsoAlsoAlsoAlsoBoard of Directors Meeting Minutes ............................................................................28Spring 2014 Calendars of Meetings and State Events .................................................31

On The CoverOn The CoverOn The CoverOn The CoverOn The Cover

InsideInsideInsideInsideInsideThisThisThisThisThis

IssueIssueIssueIssueIssue

With the clock expiring inthe fourth overtime andthe score still knotted,Hopkins inbounded theball to sophomore AmirCoffey who heaved it some55 feet or so from the backcourt. The light on thebackboard glowed red andthe horn sounded beforethe ball found nothing butnet. Game over. The Royalsadvanced to thechampionship game with a49-46 win over Shakopee,but were beaten byLakeville North in the titletilt.The first 8 minutes ofovertime were dominatedprimarily by a keep-away/get-the-last-shot strategyemployed by Hopkins andresulted in no score. Bothteams finished the thirdovertime period with 5points. Back-to-backturnovers within the finalfew seconds of the finalovertime led to thewinning heave by Coffey,who only finished with 5points. The winning shotwas reviewed by officialsper standard protocol anddeemed released prior totime expiring, as isapparent on the clock (0.2seconds) in thebackground.

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2 Spring 2014 Bulletin www.MSHSL.org

Dave’sDave’sDave’sDave’sDave’sDialogueDialogueDialogueDialogueDialogue

See Places Places Places Places Places on Page 5

By David V. SteadExecutive Director

Sir EdmundHillary and his guide,Tenzing Norkay, madehistory in 1953 byclimbing MountEverest. Theiraccomplishmentrequired remarkableskill and courage, butthere was anotherelement that ensuredtheir success.

Descending frommighty MountEverest, Hillary losthis footing and fearedfor his life.Instinctively, Tenzingheld the line taut,firmly planted his axinto the ice, therebypreventing theirotherwiseunavoidable deaths.Hillary soonrecovered his footing,

and the twoadventurerscompleted theirdescent.

Learning aboutthe climber’s perils,the press later calledTenzing a hero.Tenzing refuted theglory and refused totake any credit.Instead, he wasquoted as saying:“Mountain climbersalways help oneanother. It’s a routinepart of theirprofession.”

John Hamann is thehigh school

principal and athleticdirector atUnderwood HighSchool and thepresident of theLeague Board ofDirectors. PresidentHamann spoke to the

32 Triple A Awardhonorees at theirrecognition luncheon,and his commentsechoed thephilosophy espousedby Tenzing.

Triple A recipientsare recognizedbecause of theiractive involvement intheir schoolcommunity, and

while recognition hascome to them, theyhave consistentlyextended themselvesinto their schoolprograms in order tohelp others growrather than acceptaccolades for theirownaccomplishments.

While not yet apart of their

It’s part of their profession

profession, as relatedin the quote byTenzing, the honoredstudents havelearned from othersand reflect the valuesof selflessness and agiving nature thatwill most certainly beevidenced throughouttheir later lives.

Oh, the places you’ll goBy John Hamann

WOW! What a wonderful group of seniors whorepresent the best students, athletes, and performers

in Minnesota. You are the best of the best, and today wecelebrate 32 different paths to success and 32 individualswho will, I know, continue to successfully meet life’schallenges.

I’m the high school principal and athletic director inUnderwood, and we’ve been fortunate to have had five ofour students recognized as state Class A Triple Arecipients. I reminded each of them when they attendedtheir luncheon that they were sharing a special time with31 other students who had also excelled in academics,arts, and athletics in their school community. They, andeach of you, represent the “cream of the crop,” and youare awesome representatives of our Minnesota schools.

The five Underwood students I mentioned have allcontinued their education in colleges and universities inMinnesota and the surrounding states; many have nowgraduated and begun their careers as a physician, anactuary, a PhD candidate in ecology, evolution andbehavior; and some are still in college and have combinedtheir continued love for learning and athletics and fine artsprograms.

As I prepared for this Triple A luncheon, I wonderedwhat words would best convey what I feel is the mostdefining attribute of a Triple A student. The word thatimmediately came to mind is relationships. Relationshipsyou have developed with others in your school community;with your family and friends; and with your coaches,advisors and directors.

Underwood High School is a small school in northwestMinnesota and as such, relationships are incredibly

important to me. I arrive in my office each day at 6:30 am.I check my e-mails and respond to those I can addressimmediately, and then I walk to the kitchen to see thecooks. You see, I have a special relationship with thekitchen staff. In fact, the cooks knew I was going to aLeague tournament this fall, and they had baked andpacked a box of cookies for me. It certainly wasn’t becauseI had asked them to do so or that I needed them. It wassimply because of the relationship that had beendeveloped and because they care about me.

And then one day last winter, I walked into the kitchenwith two different shoes on. They were both black but theywere different styles. We all noticed my attire snafu at thesame time and laughed together. I took some good-naturedribbing, but you know what? That mistake, my mistake,didn’t leave the kitchen. There is an appreciation andrespect we show one another each day with relationalissues, and the saying, “What happens in the kitchen staysin the kitchen” holds true. At least it stayed in the kitchenuntil today! Strong, respectful relationships are so very,very important.

I believe the relationships in your life are directlyrelated to your level of success. Your support systembegins with your family and friends. It’s that group ofpeople who have been through every aspect of your lifeand stood by your side. They’ve shared in yourcelebrations and comforted you in your defeats. They’vemade time for your practices, rehearsals, your contestsand concerts. They love you unconditionally, and I haveobserved hundreds of students who’ve had unendingsupport from their family and friends that has enabledthem to conquer any obstacle they have faced.

I believe therelationships in yourlife are directlyrelated to your levelof success.


NewsNewsNewsNewsNewsandandandandand

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See TTTTTriple Ariple Ariple Ariple Ariple Aon Page 5

Kraemer, John, Sorensen, Dudley earn Triple A AwardsTaylor Kraemer of Osakis High School, Dillon John of

Adrian High School, Shaelyn Sorensen of Tartan HighSchool and William Dudley of Worthington High Schoolwere awarded the Minnesota State High School LeagueAcademic, Arts, and Athletics Awards on March 15 duringceremonies held at the Graves 601 Hotel in Minneapolis.

Established in 1988, the award, popularly known as theTriple A Award, recognizes and rewards high schoolseniors from across the state for their achievements in theclassroom, the arts, and athletics. To qualify for theaward, students must have a “B” or better grade pointaverage and participate in League-sponsored athletic andfine arts activities. League member schools are invited tonominate two students—a boy and a girl — for the award.Award recipients are selected through a multi-levelprocess involving the League’s administrative regions anda committee of athletic, fine arts and educational leaders.

One girl and one boy from Class A schools and one girland one boy from Class AA schools receive a four-year,$1,000 scholarship.

Following are brief profiles of the 2014 Academics,Arts, and Athletics Award winners, plus all of the finalists.Each shares their thoughts on participating in high schoolactivities.

Taylor KraemerOsakis High School — Region 6AG.P.A. 4.0Band, choir, visual arts, tennis, basketball, track and field

In track and field, Taylor Kraemer has made multiple

state meet appearances, placing as high as second placein a relay, and has earned two All-State and two All-Conference distinctions. In tennis, Taylor has made threestate appearances both as an individual and as a teammember and has earned three All-Conference and threeAll-State distinctions. She has also participated inbasketball. In the arts, Taylor was recognized with a Bestof Site award in the State Visual Arts Festival when shewas a ninth grader. She has earned excellent ratings inboth band and choir and has also added two superiorawards in choir. Academically, Taylor takes College in theSchool classes. A teacher and coach praises that Taylorhas strength in her convictions and exemplifies the traitsof someone who will succeed in life.

“I believe the high involvement in activities I am in andthe depth of success in my sports has strengthened me inmore ways than I could have imagined. My dedication anddrive to excel will prove to be highly beneficial in mycollege success.”

Dillon JohnAdrian High School — Region 3AG.P.A. 4.029Band, choir, one act play, speech, football, track and field

Dillon John takes post-secondary enrollment optionclasses at the college sophomore level and also takesCollege in the Schools classes. Within the arts, Dillon haswon three superior awards in band and two excellent andone superior award in choir. He also participates in OneAct Play. Still within the arts, Dillon has qualified for the

The 2014 Triple A Award winners (L-R): Taylor Kraemer of Osakis, Dillon John ofAdrian, William Dudley of Worthington, and Shaelyn Sorensen of Tartan.

State SpeechTournament. He hasalso qualified for theState FootballTournament andearned All-Conference in thesport. In track andfield, Dillon has beenhonored with All-Conference awardseach year. A SocialStudies teacherstates that nobody hehas known embodiesthe true spirit of theTriple A Award morethan Dillon.

“I have been onthe ‘A’ honor rollthroughout my highschool career… . Ihave taken a harderpath in high school tobetter prepare me forcollege and to be thebest student I canbe.”

Established in1988, the award,

popularly known asthe Triple A Award,

recognizes andrewards high

school seniors fromacross the state fortheir achievements

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2014 Academics, Arts & Athletics Award Finalists

Erinn SmithWabasha-Kellogg

Will BalowLake City

REGION 1A

Claire ChristianUnited South Cen-

tral

Zachary BrownFairmont

REGION 2A

Katarina KuhlmannDawson-Boyd

Dillon JohnAdrian

REGION 3A

Jennifer WalzProvidence Acad-

emy

Eh Ka Lu TawSt. Paul Humboldt

REGION 4A

Bethany CoopMora

Matthew FliegelAnnandale

REGION 5A

Taylor KraemerOsakis

Tyler UkkelbergBattle Lake

REGION 6A

Aimee AllenMesabi East

Marc PetersonEsko

REGION 7A

Megan NorbyNevis

Hunter McMillinGrygla-Gatzke

REGION 8A

Isabelle FermFarmington

Carter McCauleyOwatonna

REGION 1AA

Emily SmithMankato West

William DudleyWorthington

REGION 2AA

Emerald EgwimEagan

Jacob JaegerHenry Sibley

REGION 3AA

Shaelyn SorensenTartan

Maxwell InskeepSt. Paul Como

Park

REGION 4AA

Paige NoctonFridley

Brian SukalskiSt. Michael-Al-

bertville

REGION 5AA

Margaret GrahamHopkins

Jacob YoungEden Prairie

REGION 6AA

Veronica WitikkoHermantown

Gino FraboniPrinceton

REGION 7AA

Tara RudieWillmar

David SchneckFergus Falls

REGION 8AA




Triple A ............................................................. continued from Page 3

Shaelyn SorensenTartan High School — Region 4AAG.P.A. 4.25Band, cross country running, Nordic skiing, track and field

Shaelyn Sorensen’s athletic success is in enduranceevents; she has earned nine combined All-Conferenceawards in cross country running, Nordic skiing and trackand field. She is a two-time All-State competitor in crosscountry running, placing as high as 16th over her multipleappearances. She is also an All-State runner in track andfield, finishing in 8th place in the 3200-meter run. She alsocompeted in this year’s State Nordic Ski Racing Meet.Awards in the arts include two excellent ratings for bandperformance. In the classroom, Shaelyn has takennumerous Advanced Placement and College in the Schoolsclasses. An Advanced Placement teacher explains that shedoesn’t settle for “just done,” but she works out all thedetails and completes every task to the best of her ability.

“My activities involving running during my 11th gradeyear were lacking any distinctions other than varsity. I hadtrouble with my hamstring, then breathing, and finally lowhemoglobin to the point where I was running worse than Ihad since 7th grade. This is not a ploy to gain pity votes,though; it is to highlight my strength as an athlete to get tothe bottom of my problems and fix them, and to comeback stronger than ever.”

William DudleyWorthington High School — Region 2AAG.P.A. 4.0Band, choir, orchestra, football, basketball, track and field

William Dudley has a vast collection of awards in artsand athletics. In choir, he has earned three superiorratings; and in orchestra he has been honored with twosuperior awards and one excellent rating. He has alsoplayed in band. Athletically, Will has collected two All-Conference and one All-State awards in football, was partof a State Tournament basketball team, and has earnedthree All-Conference and one All-State awards in trackand field. He placed 4th in the pole vault at last year’sState Track Meet. Within the classroom, Will has taken

both Advanced Placement and Collage in the Schoolsclasses. His orchestra director says that Will has set thepace within the school through his consistent andconscientious efforts to excel at every level.

“Being involved in numerous activities has forced me tolearn prioritization skills. Finding time to complete schoolwork at a high level, while balancing athletics and arts,has been a challenging but rewarding experience. I believethis will someday enable me to have a positive impact onmy work, career, community, family, and world, whiletoday making it possible for me to be a versatile student-athlete at Worthington High School.”

Erinn SmithWabasha-Kellogg High School — Region 1AG.P.A. 3.97Band, choir, speech, cross country running, Alpine skiing,

softball

“I enjoy challenging myself in school, and because ofthis, I choose to take difficult courses. I believe that it ismore important to learn and grow as a person than to takeeasy classes. Because I have challenged myself, I believethat I am better prepared for college. I am proud that Ihave worked hard throughout high school and haveprepared myself for the rest of my life.”

Will BalowLake City High School — Region 1AG.P.A. 4.0Band, football, wrestling, track and field

“For me, band is an outlet. It allows me to release mystress through notes and rhythms. Music has the power tochange my mood and my mood has the power to shape themusic I play. It too allows me to grow as a person. …None of this would be possible without a school thatsupports and understands the importance of music, andfor that I am also thankful.”

Places ............................................................... continued from Page 2

Your relationships, sometimes frictional and sometimessupportive, have been cultivated with coaches, advisors,and directors. These people who have chosen to come intoyour life have taught you and provided you with the skillsto perform in front of audiences, to entertain, and to enjoyevery aspect of your classroom or activity involvement.But most importantly, they have helped you learn aboutyourself and the life lessons that will continue to be somuch a part of your future.

Your teachers have taught you different concepts,disciplined you when necessary, allowed you to becreative, and have shown their support in youraccomplishments in the classroom and outside the wallsof the school. They are the ones who have supported youin good times and in bad; the times when you’ve beensuccessful, and the times when defeat seemed to be themost bitter. They are the people you spend more time withduring the school year than your parents.

These three groups I mentioned have helped youdevelop leadership skills, build positive relationships, andlearn life lessons that will serve you well every day of yourlife. And I leave you with this challenge: pick up the phone

tonight, go into the audience after this program, Facebook,tweet, write a letter, send an e-mail or text to someone ineach of the three groups I’ve mentioned and thank them.Tell them how much they have meant to you and howimportant they have been in your life.

Is your journey done? No, it’s not even close to beingcompleted. In fact, you’re just beginning to travel down theroad to great things! And the words of Dr. Suess in hisbook, Oh the Places You’ll Go, speak directly to youbecause:

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in yourshoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOUare the one who’ll decide where to go…

“You’re off to Great Places! Today is your day!“And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed! (98 and ¾

percent guaranteed.)”

So, go move mountains. I know you’ll all continue tomake us proud.

Congratulations!

Is your journeydone? No, it’s not

even close to beingcompleted. In fact,

you’re justbeginning to travel

down the road togreat things!

See TTTTTriple A riple A riple A riple A riple A on Page 6


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Claire ChristianUnited South Central High School — Region 2AG.P.A. 4.0Band, choir, tennis, golf

“I have worked hard in high school to maintain goodgrades while being involved in athletics, arts, and differentextra-curricular activities. I enjoy being involved ineverything I am in. I am very proud of what I have doneand am excited to continue some activities in college.”

Zachary BrownFairmont High School — Region 2AG.P.A. 4.2Choir, orchestra, speech, football, basketball, track and

field

“I have always believed in being a three-sport athlete,and I am thankful for all the different sports Fairmontoffers. Being a three-sport athlete has allowed me to enjoya variety of different sports that require different skills andto help me stay active and fit year round. Sports haveprovided me with lessons in leadership and life.”

Katarina KuhlmannDawson-Boyd High School — Region 3AG.P.A. 3.8Choir, orchestra, volleyball, basketball, track and field

“In addition to academic, fine arts and athleticachievements, I was honored to achieve roles inleadership and representation in high school. Through aservice learning class my junior year, I volunteered andhelped in an 8th grade math class. … My activities andachievements continued outside of the classroom and gymduring my high school years.”

Jennifer WalzProvidence Academy — Region 4AG.P.A. 3.88Band, visual arts, cross country running, soccer, track and

field

“This year I learned that being a leader is not simplygetting cool sweatshirts for the team or bringing snacks,but setting a good example for the team. Every day Istrived to be a confident, positive, respectful, persevering,and God-centered woman. I am now able to see the beautyand talent in everyone around me, no matter their age,appearance or how fast they can run a race.”

Eh Ka Lu TawSt. Paul Humboldt High School — Region 4AG.P.A. 4.02Choir, soccer, cross country running, wrestling, swimming

and diving, tennis

“My parents brought my family to the United States tomake a better life for us. In Thailand, we didn’t have theopportunities that we have here. When I joined sports andclubs, it was important to me to work hard and give it myall. I know that the kids I played with and against mayhave been playing their sport for many years. This mademe determined to work even harder.”

Bethany CoopMora High School — Region 5AG.P.A. 4.2Band, choir, cross country running, Nordic skiing, track

and field

“My involvement in the fine arts has instilled in me agreater appreciation of music. Being a member of Horn

Club, I have learned how challenging, yet rewarding it canbe to create sounds that are in tune and blend welltogether. Music in my life is truly a blessing!”

Matthew FliegelAnnandale High School — Region 5AG.P.A. 3.994Band, choir, cross country running, Alpine skiing, track and

field

“My high school years would not have been the same ifI had not worked toward good grades, been involved in thearts, and pushed myself in sports. Striving for highacademic standings has allowed me to become preparedfor the coming challenges. By participating inextracurricular activities I have been able to learn manylifelong skills such as playing the piano. Athletics haveshowed me what motivation can truly do and what being apart of a team is all about.”

Tyler UkkelbergBattle Lake High School — Region 6AG.P.A. 3.99Band, choir, speech, visual arts, football, basketball, golf

“I have worked very hard in school, as well as beinginvolved in many activities, and have managed to maintainthe number one ranking in my class. … As well as being inband, choir, and speech, I was a part of our school’smusicals from my seventh grade year all through mysenior year.”

Aimee AllenMesabi East High School — Region 7AG.P.A. 4.06Band, choir, tennis, cross country running, basketball,

track and field

“My involvement in music has humbled me, but alsopushed me to be more confident and outgoing. There issomething special about being able to share my musicaltalent with others and not be afraid of their criticism, butuse their criticism to improve myself and musical abilities.I hope I will be able to remember these lessons and applythem to my life in the future.”

Marc PetersonEsko High School — Region 7AG.P.A. 3.933Band, football, basketball, golf

“Academics have always been the most importantaspect of my high school life. My coaches and parentshave taught me the meaning of the word student-athlete,and that the ‘student’ commitment comes before the‘athlete’ commitment. … As I see it, along with theprivileges that come with being a student-athlete andleader at Esko High School comes a responsibility to passalong the important values of our school and community.”

Megan NorbyNevis High School — Region 8AG.P.A. 3.925Band, choir, volleyball, basketball, track and field

“Being a section leader in both band and choir hastaught me leadership skills. Competing in band and choirsolo competitions has taught me poise and confidence.Earning excellent and superior ratings in band ensemblesrequired me to learn harmony and unity with others.Learning dedication and teamwork skills will carry over






into life and be critical in athletics, school projects, and afuture job.”

Hunter McMillinGrygla-Gatzke High School — Region 8AG.P.A. 3.98Band, choir, visual arts, football, basketball

“In my high school career I have been very fortunate tohave the teammates and coaches that I had. We had suchan athletic, hard working and dedicated group of kids thatI was able to work with. We also had a Hall of Famebasketball coach and a group of football coaches that areso dedicated to us kids and led us to two state playoffs ina matter of three years.”

Isabelle FermFarmington High School — Region 1AAG.P.A. 3.978Choir, soccer, basketball, track and field

“As a senior, I’m glad for the opportunities Farmingtonhas provided for me to grow as a student. I’ve had thechance to learn about many different subjects, some ofwhich have helped me figure out what I’m interested inpursuing in the future. The study habits I’ve developed willdefinitely be helpful for college life and a career!”

Carter McCauleyOwatonna High School — Region 1AAG.P.A. 4.081Choir, orchestra, soccer, football, baseball

“In addition to learning a great deal, my appreciationfor music has grown tremendously. It also helped teach mehow to partner with my peers to create something that’sbetter than what one person can create on their own.”

Emily SmithMankato West High School — Region 2AAG.P.A. 4.318Orchestra, tennis, golf

“I volunteered as assistant conductor for the North StarStrings, a local youth orchestra. I taught violin to English-learning elementary students through the Mankato PublicSchool District’s ‘Learning Through Music ReadingReadiness’ Summer Program.”

Emerald EgwimEagan High School — Region 3AAG.P.A. 3.6Choir, speech, cross country running, track and field

“One of the best choices I have made in high school isjoining the speech team. I am incredibly thankful to all thecoaches for all that they have helped me with and through.After each and every year in speech, I can always say thatI have learned a valuable life lesson — whether I hadcome to that the easy or hard way. Speech and other finearts activities give students an avenue to expressthemselves in a way that no other activity does.”

Jacob JaegerHenry Sibley High School — Region 3AAG.P.A. 4.0Band, soccer, hockey, baseball, clay target shooting

“Advanced Placement Physics is one of my favorite highschool classes I have taken. My teacher, Mr. Bohacek,creates direct measurement videos to give students real-world examples of solving physics problems. Last year Ibegan working with Mr. Bohacek to develop additional

videos, which are now being used by physics teachersaround the country. This has given me a great appreciationof the importance of providing additional methods oflearning for students.”

Maxwell InskeepSt. Paul Como Park High School — Region 4AAG.P.A. 3.18Choir, one act play, soccer, hockey

“Playing on the state championship soccer teamallowed me to represent my school and community in apositive manner, interact and compete with students fromaround the state, and help form life-long bonds andfriendships with my teammates who represent sevendifferent countries. … These experiences have given megreat confidence and drive to succeed and I know that Ipossess the respect for all people and am a collaborativespirit as a role model, teammate, student, friend andambassador for my school and community.”

Paige NoctonFridley High School — Region 5AAG.P.A. 4.2Band, swimming and diving, gymnastics, track and field

“Having a well rounded life is very important to me andI think it is important that I am involved in all of thesethings. It has allowed me to achieve things that I neverthought I could and has made me more confident in myathletic, academic, and artistic abilities.”

Brian SukalskiSt. Michael-Albertville High School — Region 5AAG.P.A. 4.06Band, football, basketball, track and field

“I think the most important thing I’ve achievedpersonally in high school is the variety of perspectives I’veexperienced by being involved in academics, athletics, andthe arts. I’ve had a unique opportunity to connect to awide range of people in a way that others haven’t had achance to do. With this wide variety of people, I get to seemany different points of view, each of which help shapethe way I see the world.”

Margaret GrahamHopkins High School — Region 6AAG.P.A. 3.982Band, orchestra, robotics, swimming and diving,

gymnastics, track and field

“I have never been an idle person. I love to try newthings and fully participate in as many of them as I canpossibly fit in a day. It may seem like a hectic schedule,but I have loved every minute of it. I wish to continue around life of academics, arts, athletics, and communityinvolvement far beyond high school.”

Jacob YoungEden Prairie High School — Region 6AAG.P.A. 4.0Band, cross country running, swimming and diving, track

and field

“There were many scheduling conflicts and challengesthat I had to overcome. The Eden Prairie Marching Band isa competitive marching band, which means that lots oftime must be put into it. This meant that I had to beserious in how I managed time to make sure that I did notlet either the band or cross country team down. Later,




See ShowShowShowShowShowon Page 9

By Kevin MerkleAssociate Director

Although I havealways read

professionalpublications, I havenever read as muchas I should or asmuch as I would like,especially forpleasure. During thepast six months Ihave developed abetter habit ofreading on a regularbasis for pleasure, aswell as professionally– and more than justprofessionalpublications.

As forprofessional reading,I’ve read both of theJoe Ehrmann books(if you liked InsideOut Coaching, Iwould highlyrecommend his firstbook, Season of Life,which I enjoyed evenmore). That has ledme to reading severalother books that arerelated.

The first, TheLegacy Builder byRod Olson, is spot-onwith the theme oftransformationalcoaching. This is aneasy read, written inthe form of a parableand the setting isMinnesota. Themessage in this bookcan be applied by allof us both personallyand professionally.

‘Show‘Show‘Show‘Show‘Showthemthemthemthemthemwhatwhatwhatwhatwhatyouyouyouyouyou’re’re’re’re’remade ofmade ofmade ofmade ofmade of’’’’’

The other book Icame acrossaccidentally whileattending theNational Associationof Sports OfficialsSummit in GrandRapids, Mich., lastsummer. The summitwas held at theAmway Hotel. In thegift store they had abook written by RichDeVos, who is fromGrand Rapids andone of the foundersof the AmwayCorporation. Thebook titled TenPowerful Phrases forPositive People offersa relatively shortchapter on each of 10different phrases thatwhen used, make adifference in the livesof others, as well asin our own lives. Thisis a great reminder ofhow using simple,positive phrases canhave a big impact onthe lives of others.

Having read thesebooks over thewinter, I decided touse some of themessages in my“speech” to officialsin the pre-gamemeetings for theBoys’ BasketballState Tournament. Ihave alwaysreviewedexpectations with ourofficials prior to thetournament, with theprimary intention of

meeting them andthanking them forwhat they do. Lastyear I decided to do ashort “pep talk” andfocused on mentalpreparation which Iexpanded on in anarticle I wrote for theBulletin this past fall.Officials need toprepare and performmuch the same wayas an athlete. Beingin the proper mentalframe of mind willhelp them be morefocused andconsistent in theirperformance.

I built on lastyear’s “speech” bytalking about how wehad confidence inthem and theirabilities, and that webelieved “they coulddo it.” I continuedwith the fact that itwas more importantthat they believe inthemselves and theirpartners; and that

they trust their skillsand instincts. Therewas a little more tothe speech, but thatis a brief synopsis,and it was partiallybased on the TenPowerful Phrases forPositive People.

My “pep talk” wasfirst presented onTuesday eveningwhen we meet withall of the officialsthat work the 12tournament gameson Wednesday, theopening day of theboys’ tournament. OnThursday morning Imeet at WilliamsArena with all of theofficials that will beworking on that day.I’ve established atradition of leavingearly enough thatmorning so that I canstop for breakfast ata Keys Cafe locatedon Raymond Avenuenot far from theUniversity. Keys is a

relatively small,throw-back familyrestaurant and is agreat place to go forbreakfast.

The waitresschecked on me soonafter arriving, and inaddition to providinggreat service, shekept calling me “kid.”At my age, that’s acompliment, so shehad already made mefeel good! When Iwas finished I wentto the counter to pay,and the samewaitress took care ofthe transaction. Afteradding a tip andsigning the receipt,as I was turning toleave, the waitresssaid thank you, andthen added: “Showthem what you’remade of!” I stoppedas I opened the door,turned around and

After adding a tipand signing thereceipt, as I wasturning to leave,the waitress saidthank you, and thenadded: “Show themwhat you’re madeof!”





during the swim and track seasons, I had to deal with aconflicting jazz band schedule. I made sure that I did notlet anybody down.”

Veronica WitikkoHermantown High School — Region 7AAG.P.A. 4.0Choir, one act play, speech, visual arts, cross country

running, track and field

“My involvement in athletics at Hermantown has beencrucial to my development as a person. As soon as I wasthrown into a varsity race, self improvement became myprize. While setting goals, I pushed myself in and out ofseveral sports injuries. I dedicated my time and efforts toself improvement, while trying to foster teamdevelopment.”

Gino FraboniPrinceton High School — Region 7AAG.P.A. 4.0Band, choir, one act play, speech, football, swimming and

diving, track and field, tennis

“In school my interests vary greatly, so I haveattempted to do as many different activities as I possiblycan. I think that this is important to show people that you

can be heavily involved in music and the arts while stillparticipating in athletics and keeping a high grade pointaverage.”

Tara RudieWillmar High School — Region 8AAG.P.A. 4.038Band, choir, cross country running, basketball, track and

field

“Throughout my high school career, I have alwayschosen to take advanced courses compared to regular,which has been a way of challenging myself. My courseselections have not always been easy, but the difficulties Ihave faced myself with have made me a better student. Myacademics have been extremely important to me, and Ihave worked diligently to be the student that I am today.”

David SchneckFergus Falls High School — Region 8AAG.P.A. 4.01Band, choir, orchestra, soccer, basketball, tennis

“My band activities include playing percussion in Jazz 1Band, Pep Band, Marching Band, and Wind Ensemble. Ourhigh school marching band marched in the inauguralparade for President Obama.”

Show ................................................................ continued from Page 8

said thanks – andthat I reallyappreciated thatcomment, which hadtaken me completelyby surprise.

Little did sheknow the impact ofwhat she said. By thetime I took couple ofsteps down thesidewalk I had addedthis story to thespeech I would begiving to the officialsin about 15 minutes.As I completed myshort talk with theofficials I ended withthat story and sentthem on their way byasking them to “showthem what you’remade of.” I thenshared that messageat the meetings onFriday and Saturdayand at the meetingsduring the girls’tournament. In all,well more than 100officials heard thatmessage.

Did it have animpact? Who reallyknows, but whilesupervising atMariucci Arena, I wasreturning to thetournamentheadquarters when Imet the officials

getting prepared forthe next game. Thefirst comment theymade was: “We’reready to show themwhat we’re made of.”

The message istwo-fold: first, areminder of thedifference a positive,uplifting commentcan have on anotherperson – both in howthey approach theday and in how theyperform – isprofound; second,and perhaps mostimportant, neverunderestimate theimpact that you canhave on others bywhat you do and say.

As teachers,coaches,administrators,parents, employers,or as employees, weall make a differencein the lives of otherpeople. The impact –whether negative orpositive – manytimes is greater thanwe realize. We needto do our best tomake that impact apositive one. As weknow, the importantthing in life is notabout who we are orwhat we accomplish,

but about thepositive impact wehave on others.

In his book Livinga Life That Matters,Harold Kushnerwrote, “Our souls arenot hungry for fame,comfort, wealth, orpower. Our souls arehungry for meaning,for the sense that wehave figured out howto live so that ourlives matter, so thatthe world will be atleast a little bitdifferent for ourhaving passedthrough it.”

There is now goodreason for me toreturn to Keys Cafefor breakfast. I owethem more of mybusiness, and I wantto share with thewaitress that herwords did make adifference.

My words to you:As you get ready tostart a new day, tostart a new project,or take on that nextchallenge, “showthem what you’remade of” as you doyour best to “live alife that matters.”

The message is two-fold: first, a reminder ofthe difference a positive, uplifting commentcan have on another person – both in how

they approach the day and in how theyperform – is profound; second, and perhaps

most important, never underestimate theimpact that you can have on others by what

you do and say.

Anna PhearmanWatertown-Mayer

Lindsey MartensSartell-St. Stephen

Meghan KuemmelPark, Cottage Grove

Hunter FickAshby

Nicholas BattisMound Westonka

Emma StottsMinneapolis Wash-

burn

Ellen PurdySt. Paul Como Park

Emily FriedrichBrandon-Evansville

Kyle BeckerPierz

Dawn SwartzPillager

Ryan RichelsenProvidence Academy,

Plymouth

Amy GustafsonDeer River

Ethan BerubePark, Cottage Grove

Michael ThompsonTri-County, Karlstad

Brandon SchmitJackson County Cen-

tral

Paige HildebrandtWaseca

Tanner BinaEly

Laura TrahmsJanesville-Waldorf-Pem-

berton

William SchroederBrandon-Evansville

Cassandra HookTracy Area

Matthew BjorkLeSueur-Henderson

Madison TruscinskiBadger

Anne SchwarzNew Ulm Cathedral

Maxwell JacobsonAlexandria

Emma CraneElk River

Harrison SpeltzSpring Grove

Andrew MorgensternEastview, Apple Valley

Jake LanglieNew Richland-H-E-G

Alexis LansinkHutchinson

Elizabeth JohnsonSpring Grove

Samuel EllefsonHutchinson

Thomas BaoTartan, Oakdale




See ExCEL ExCEL ExCEL ExCEL ExCEL on Page 12

By Lisa LissimoreAssociate Director

“Everyone can begreat, becauseanyone can serve. Youdon’t have to have acollege degree toserve. You don’t haveto make your subjectand verb agree toserve. You only needa heart full of grace.A soul generated bylove.” — MartinLuther King, Jr.

And so it is withthe 2014 ExCEL

Award winners — agroup of studentleaders who gobeyond theclassroom and thefields of competitionevery day with graceand love to improvethe quality of life forothers.

With more than20,000 communityservice hours amongthem, the 32 ExCELAward recipientswhom the Leaguehonored at the StateGirls’ BasketballTournament onMarch 22 participatevoluntarily in serviceactivities of all kinds.They tutor otherstudents, coachyouth sports, teachSunday school, assist

ExCEL students building stronger, healthier, safer communitiesseniors, visithomeless shelters,and mentor at-riskkids. They offer timeto worthy causes toend hunger, housethe homeless, helpthe environment, andto raise funds formedical research.

One student, AmyGustafson of DeerRiver High School,volunteers 300 hoursa year at hercommunity’s library.She shelves books,takes inventory,creates book listsand assists patrons.Another student,Alexis Lansink ofHutchinson, taughtEnglish to children inUkraine, after thecountry was ravagedby the effects of theSoviet regime. Othersalso participated innotable serviceprojects, including:

Emma Stotts ofMinneapolisWashburn, whoserved as a summerreading tutor at ahomeless shelter,working with kidsages 4-16. Herstudents includedSomali refugees andvictims of house firesand foreclosures.

Brandon Schmittof Jackson CountyCentral, who

organized andcoordinated a projectto mark and identifydistances anddirections on aseven-mile trailsystem. There is nowa map at city hall and28 color-coded signsalong the trail.

Anna Phearman ofWatertown-Mayer,who in her role onthe Minnesota YouthCouncil spends timeadvising thelegislature, thegovernor and theDepartment ofEducation on issuesthat affect youth.

Thomas Bao ofTartan High School,who spends up to 90hours a monthtutoring students inmath and science atTartan and at theUniversity ofMinnesota. He also

teaches Vietnameseto first througheighth gradersweekly.

AndrewMorgenstern ofEastview HighSchool, whoseservice work hastaken him to theRosebud IndianReservation in SouthDakota on threedifferent occasions.He and his fellowvolunteers havecreated relationshipswith disadvantagedchildren, most ofwhom have never leftthe Reservation.

“There are somany reasons to beproud of these youngmen and youngwomen,” said DavidStead, executivedirector of theLeague. “They livetheir life serving and

lifting up others.They’re engaged inlife-changing projectsthat build stronger,healthier, and safercommunities.”

The ExCEL awardprogram began in1996. Awardrecipients areselected through amulti-level processthat involves Leaguemember schools andan independent panelof judges fromschools throughoutMinnesota. Morethan 4,000 studentshave been recognizedwith this awardprogram. Two-hundred and eighty-five students werenominated by theirschools this year.Here’s a look at the2014 ExCEL Awardrecipients.

Thomas BaoTartan High School

School Activities: Knowledge Bowl, Marching Band,Math League, National Honor Society, Peer Tutoring,Student Ambassador

Athletics: Swimming and DivingFine Arts: BandCommunity Service: Vietnamese Community Volunteer,

Boy Scouts Food Drive and Church Maintenance,Environmental Service Projects, Youth Sports EventVolunteer, University of Minnesota Tutor, English LanguageTutor in China

Special Mention: Thomas spends up to 90 hours permonth tutoring students in math and science at bothTartan High School and at the University of Minnesota. Healso teaches Vietnamese to first through eighth gradersweekly.

Nicholas BattisMound Westonka High School

School Activities: Chinese Club, Literature Club, DECA,Quiz Bowl, Science Olympiad, Destination Imagination,National Honor Society, School Musical Pit Orchestra

Athletics: Football, Baseball

Fine Arts: BandCommunity Service: Feed My Starving Children, Church

Musician, Westonka Youth Rotary, Hospital Volunteer,Senior Center Volunteer, Service Trip

Kyle BeckerPierz High School

School Activities: Robotics, Student Council, SchoolMusical, National Honor Society, Knowledge Bowl, SpanishClub, Business Professionals of America, Peer Helpers

Athletics: Cross Country Running, Basketball, Track andField

Fine Arts: Band, ChoirCommunity Service: Church Musician and Volunteer,

Bible School Teacher, Youth Sports Volunteer, Food Drive,Adopt-a-Highway, Community Children’s Event Volunteer

Ethan BerubePark High School

School Activities: Link Crew, District Youth AdvisoryCommittee, Student Council, Park News Network, Leadersof the Pack Organization

“There are so manyreasons to be

proud of theseyoung men and

young women. Theylive their life

serving and liftingup others. They’re

engaged in life-changing projects

that build stronger,healthier, and safer

communities.”


ExCEL .............................................................. continued from Page 11


Athletics: Soccer, Cross Country Running, Nordic Skiing,Track and Field, Basketball Manager

Fine Arts: Choir, SpeechCommunity Service: Feed My Starving Children, Youth

Sports Coach, Neighborhood Yard Work Volunteer, BloodDrive Volunteer, Middle School Landscape Volunteer

Tanner BinaEly High School

School Activities: Marching Band, Drama, StudentCouncil, School Journalism, Youth in Action, Junior Rotary,Engineering Project


Fine Arts: BandCommunity Service: Young Life and Campaigners Youth

Group Volunteer, Church Volunteer, Youth Sports Volunteer,Middle School Youth Group Leader

Matthew BjorkLeSueur-Henderson High School

School Activities: Robotics, Knowledge Bowl, MarchingBand, School Musical, National Honor Society, ScienceClub, LifeSmarts Challenge, Target Chemical FreeLeadership Group

Athletics: Cross Country Running, GolfFine Arts: Band, Choir, One Act Play, Speech, Visual

ArtsCommunity Service: Church Musician and Technology

Volunteer, American Red Cross, Adopt-a-Highway, Feed MyStarving Children, Food Shelf, Salvation Army, ServiceTrips

Emma CraneElk River High School

School Activities: School Musical, Special EventMusician, National Honor Society, Impact LeadershipGroup

Athletics: Cross Country Running, Nordic SkiingFine Arts: ChoirCommunity Service: Section and State Tournaments

National Anthem Singer, Bible School Aide, ChurchMusician and Peer Minister, Service Group Volunteer

Samuel EllefsonHutchinson High School

School Activities: National Honor Society, StudentCouncil, Key Club, Link Crew, Fellowship of ChristianAthletes, Health Occupations Students of America

Athletics: Soccer, Basketball, BaseballFine Arts: ChoirCommunity Service: Mission Trip, American Red Cross,

Church Volunteer, Kiwanis, Elementary Student SummerProgram Leader, Elementary STEM Volunteer, Food Shelf,Adopt-a-Highway, Kids Against Hunger, MemorialFoundation Volunteer

Hunter FickAshby High School

School Activities: FFA, Student Council, InterschoolSupport Group, Science Fair, Marching Band

Athletics: Football, Wrestling, Golf, Track and FieldFine Arts: BandCommunity Service: Community Sports Field

Maintenance, Sunday School Teacher, Church Volunteer,Adopt-a-Highway, Assisted Living Home Volunteer, YouthSports Coach and Referee, Kiwanis Volunteer, SportsmanClub Volunteer, Community Arts Committee

Emily FriedrichBrandon-Evansville High School

School Activities: Student Council, Knowledge Bowl,Math Competition, Business Professionals of America

Athletics: Volleyball, Basketball, SoftballFine Arts: Band, Visual ArtsCommunity Service: Youth Sports Event Volunteer and

Coach, Elementary Music Program Accompaniment,Senior Citizen Housework and Yard Work Volunteer, ChurchVolunteer, Nursing Home and Assisted Living Volunteerand Performer

Amy GustafsonDeer River High School

School Activities: National Honor Society, StudentCouncil, U.S. History Group, Link Crew, Family, Career andCommunity Leaders of America

Athletics: Cross Country Running, Nordic Skiing, Trackand Field, Softball Manager

Fine Arts: Band, Choir, One Act PlayCommunity Service: Sunday School Teacher, Church

Volunteer and Musician, Youth Camp Leader and ProgramStaff, Library Volunteer, Adopt-a-Highway, Blood Drive,Community Center Volunteer

Special Mention: Amy volunteers 300 hours a year ather community’s library. She shelves books, takesinventory, creates book lists, and assists patrons.

Paige HildebrandtWaseca High School

School Activities: School Musical, National HonorSociety, Student Council, FFA, Mock Trial, Web Crew

Athletics: Cross Country Running, Basketball ManagerFine Arts: Choir, SpeechCommunity Service: State Fair Miracle of Birth Animal

Caretaker, Red Cross Event Musician, 4-H Volunteer andAmbassador, Youth Horse Program Handler, Adopt-a-Highway, Ronald McDonald House

Cassandra HookTracy Area High School

School Activities: Marching Band, National HonorSociety, Student Council, Peer Helpers, Big Buddies,Spanish Club, FFA

Athletics: Volleyball, Cross Country Running, Basketball,Track and Field

Fine Arts: Band, ChoirCommunity Service: 4-H Officer, Church Volunteer and

Musician, Youth Sports Coach, Mission Trip, Fellowship ofChristian Athletes Leader, Food Shelf, Community andNursing Home Musician, Music Outreach Performer

Maxwell JacobsonAlexandria High School

School Activities: Student Council, Fellowship ofChristian Athletes, Student News, School AdvisoryCommittee

Athletics: Tennis, Swimming and DivingFine Arts: Orchestra, BandCommunity Service: Mission Trip, Church Volunteer and

Performer, Fire Fighter Explorers

Elizabeth JohnsonSpring Grove High School

School Activities: Knowledge Bowl, FFA, Marching Band,Event Accompanist, Government Day, Youth Development,TeamUp, School Musical Pit Band

Athletics: Volleyball, Basketball, Track and FieldFine Arts: Band, ChoirCommunity Service: Sunday School Teacher, Church

Volunteer and Musician, Mission Trip, Community andNursing Home Musician, 4-H Officer and Volunteer, Adopt-a-Highway, Meals on Wheels, County Fair Volunteer,Minnesota State Fair Booth Educator, Relay for Life, YouthSports Assistant






Meghan KuemmelPark High School

School Activities: Link Crew, National Honor Society,District Youth Advisory Council, Student Shadow Program,Leaders of the Pack Organization

Athletics: Soccer, Basketball, SoftballFine Arts: BandCommunity Service: Mission Trips, Church Youth

Mentor, Youth Sports Volunteer, Feed My Starving Children,Salvation Army, American Legion Event Volunteer,American Cancer Society, Diabetes Awareness EventParticipant

Jake LanglieNew Richland-H-E-G High School

School Activities: Student Ambassador, KnowledgeBowl, Student Council, National Honor Society, SchoolJournalism

Athletics: Football, Golf, Basketball ManagerCommunity Service: Church Musician and Volunteer,

Assisted Living Center Volunteer, American Red CrossSafety Camp Volunteer, Feed My Starving Children, SundaySchool Aide, Neighborhood Cleanup and LandscapeVolunteer, Youth Sports Coach, Habitat for Humanity, YouthGroup Leader

Alexis LansinkHutchinson High School

School Activities: Marching Band, Writer’s Club, KeyClub, Peer Tutoring, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, AreaLearning Center Leader

Athletics: Volleyball, Basketball, Track and FieldFine Arts: Band, Choir, SpeechCommunity Service: Community Musician, Elementary

Program Leader, Church Musician and Volunteer, FoodDrive, Special Olympics Volunteer, Relay for Life, CampCounselor, Sunday School Teacher, Mission Trips

Special Mention: Alexis had the opportunity to teachEnglish to children in Ukraine, after the country wasravaged by the effects of the Soviet regime.

Lindsey MartensSartell-St. Stephen High School

School Activities: Student Council, Blood Drive, NationalHonor Society, Student Mentorship, Leadership Conference

Athletics: Swimming and Diving, Gymnastics, GolfFine Arts: ChoirCommunity Service: Church Volunteer, Sunday School

Teacher, City Event Volunteer, Kids Against Hunger, YouthSports Volunteer, Outreach Center Volunteer

Andrew MorgensternEastview High School

School Activities: National Honor Society, Peer Tutoring,Spanish National Honor Society, Service Organization,Leadership Organization

Athletics: Football, Wrestling, BaseballFine Arts: BandCommunity Service: Church Volunteer and Musician,

Feed My Starving Children, Mission Trips, Youth SportsVolunteer, Youth Organization Leader

Special Mention: Andrew has returned three times tothe Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota forservice work. He and his fellow volunteers have createdrelationships with disadvantaged children, most of whomhave never left the Reservation.

Anna PhearmanWatertown-Mayer High School

School Activities: Student Council, School Musical,National Honor Society, Mock Trial, Knowledge Bowl, PeerTutoring, Leadership Conference

Athletics: Cross Country Running, Track and Field

Fine Arts: Band, ChoirCommunity Service: Minnesota Youth Council Member,

Church Volunteer, Day Camp Volunteer, Food Drive, ServiceTrip, Sunday School Teacher, Community RaceCoordinator, Adopt-a-Highway, Blood Drive, State SchoolBoard Conference Speaker

Special Mention: As a Minnesota Youth Council member,Anna represents Minnesota youth by gathering opinionsand advising the legislature, governor, and Department ofEducation on issues that affect youth. During Anna’sservice the Youth Council got a bill passed by thelegislature.

Ellen PurdySt. Paul Como Park High School

School Activities: Math Team, Peer Mediation,Community Service Organization, National Honor Society

Athletics: Soccer, Nordic Skiing, Track and FieldCommunity Service: Feed My Starving Children, Nature

Cleanup, Senior Living Volunteer, Political OrganizationVolunteer, Youth Sports Coach, Service Trip, Family ShelterVolunteer

Ryan RichelsenProvidence Academy

School Activities: National Honor Society, CampusMinistry, Lower School Fair, Host Family, EvangelizationTeam

Athletics: Football, Track and FieldCommunity Service: Church Performer and Volunteer,

Mission Trip, Eagle Scout, Boy Scout and Eagle ScoutVolunteer, Homeless Shelter Musician, Bible SchoolTeacher, Inner-City Service Volunteer, Children’s HospitalPatient Event Volunteer

Brandon SchmitJackson County Central High School

School Activities: Student Council, FFA, Marching Band,Show Choir, School Musical

Athletics: Football, Basketball, Wrestling, Track andField

Fine Arts: Band, ChoirCommunity Service: Boy Scout and Eagle Scout

Volunteer, Kids Against Hunger, Church Volunteer, TutorSpecial Mention: Brandon organized and coordinated a

project to mark and identify distances and directions on aseven-mile trail system. There is now a map at City Halland 28 color-coded signs along the trail in and aroundJackson.

William SchroederBrandon-Evansville High School

School Activities: Business Professionals of America,FFA

Athletics: Football, Basketball, Clay Target ShootingFine Arts: Visual Arts, BandCommunity Service: Boy Scout and Eagle Scout

Volunteer, 4-H Volunteer, Church Volunteer, Adopt-a-Highway, Elderly Holiday Delivery Volunteer, United Way,Food Drive

Anne SchwarzNew Ulm Cathedral High School

School Activities: National Honor Society, Spanish Club,Student Council, Knowledge Bowl, Science Bowl, MarchingBand

Athletics: Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, FootballManager

Fine Arts: BandCommunity Service: Church Volunteer and Musician,

Blood Drive, Nursing Home Volunteer, Food Shelf, YouthSports Coach and Volunteer




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By Craig PerryAssociate Director

A goal of theLeague Board of

Directors the pastcouple of years hasbeen to explore theaddition ofeducation-basedprograms to provideadditionalparticipationopportunities for thestudents of ourmember schools.With that in mind,the Board approved apartnership with theMinnesota State HighSchool Clay TargetLeague. In thisalliance the Leaguewill serve as apresenting partner atthe State Clay TargetTournament.

Since 2001 theClay Target League,working under theumbrella of the USAHigh School ClayTarget League, hasbeen the independentprovider of shootingsports as a co-edextra-curricularactivity for Minnesotahigh schools. Fromthe beginning theClay Target League

has worked veryclosely with theLeague by adoptingsimilar rules,regulations andoperations whilemaintaining its owngoverning body as anorganization thatprovidestrapshooting as anextra-curricularprogram. Theorganization’spriorities are safety,fun andmarksmanship — inthat order.

TrapshootingBasics● Each trap field

contains 5 shootingstations (whereshooters stand) andone trap house(where targets arethrown).

● Each shooterwill rotate to eachstation within thesame trap field afterhe/she attempts toshoot 5 targets fromthat station at the16-yard line.

● The round iscomplete after 25shots from each ofthe 5 shooters.

● The

competition consistsof a set number ofrounds.

● It’s highlylikely that the vastmajority of individualcompetitors will alsoparticipate in theteam competition.

● A head scoringofficial and oneassistant is assignedto each field to verifyall hit targets.

ParticipationQualificationsMore than 3,400

students on 114teams participated inthe 2013 Clay TargetLeague. This year6,100 students on185 teamsrepresenting more

than 200 schools willparticipate.Participation is opento boys and girls aswell as students withdisabilities in grades7-12.

● All schoolsmust be members ofthe League.

● All studentsmust attend a Leaguemember school.

● Students mustbe in good standingas defined by Leaguebylaws.

● Each studentand his or herparent/guardianmust sign theEligibilityInformation Brochuresupplied by thestudent’s school.

League the presenting partner for clay target state tournament

Regular SeasonSchools are

placed into one offour classes (A, AA,AAA, & AAAA) basedon the participationlevel at that schooland each class willhas conferences. Theseason is 9 weeks inlength with fivecompetition weeks.The top 100individualsdetermined byseason average willadvance to the statetournament.

The Clay TargetLeague’s seasonculminates June 6-10in Alexandria at theMinnesota State HighSchool Clay TargetLeagueChampionship.Twenty teams fromthe Championshipwill qualify andadvance to the statetournament.

StateTournamentThe state

tournament will beheld at theMinneapolis GunClub in Prior LakeJune 13-14, withJune 16 reserved asan alternate date dueto inclement weather.The state tournamentprovides anopportunity for thehighest qualifyingindividual and teamachievers from theClay Target LeagueChampionship.

See TTTTTarget arget arget arget arget onPage 17

This year 6,100students on 185teams representingmore than 200schools willparticipate.Participation isopen to boys andgirls as well asstudents withdisabilities ingrades 7-12.


AthleticAthleticAthleticAthleticAthleticActivitiesActivitiesActivitiesActivitiesActivities

A

B


Harrison SpeltzSpring Grove High School

School Activities: Marching Band, FFA, Knowledge Bowl,Student Council, Youth Development Group, SchoolMusical Pit Orchestra, Food Drive

Athletics: Football, BaseballFine Arts: Band, Choir, SpeechCommunity Service: Boy Scout Volunteer, Church

Musician and Volunteer, Sunday School Aide, Youth SportsVolunteer, Service Trip

Emma StottsMinneapolis Washburn High School

School Activities: Student Government, Student TourGuide, Mental Illness Awareness Group, National HonorSociety, Advertisement Committee

Athletics: Soccer, Track and FieldCommunity Service: Social Justice Theater Performer,

Homeless Shelter Reading Tutor and Volunteer, ChurchVolunteer, Coat Drive, Youth Sports Coach

Special Mention: Emma served as a summer readingtutor at a homeless shelter, working with kids ages 4-16.Her students included Somali refugees, and victims ofhouse fires and foreclosures.

Dawn SwartzPillager High School

School Activities: Spanish Club, Student Council,National Honor Society, School Musical, Special EventMusician, Festival Committee, School Greenhouse


Fine Arts: BandCommunity Service: Church Musician and Volunteer,

Community Fair Board Member, Youth Sports Volunteer,Mission Group Volunteer, Vacation Bible School Leader

Michael ThompsonTri-County High School

School Activities: National Honor Society, Peer Helper,Student Council, Knowledge Bowl, FIRST LEGO LeagueMentor

Athletics: Track and FieldFine Arts: One Act Play, Band, ChoirCommunity Service: Church Musician and Volunteer,

County Tobacco Compliance Volunteer, Religious EducationTeacher, Community and Elementary Event Performer,Homeless Shelter Volunteer

Laura TrahmsJanesville-Waldorf-Pemberton High School

School Activities: School Musical, Show Choir, NationalHonor Society, Yellow Ribbon Society, Art Club, NationalSociety of High School Scholars

Athletics: Volleyball, Softball, Track and FieldCommunity Service: Middle School Camp Volunteer,

Youth Sports Volunteer, Church Dance Performer andMusician, Relay for Life, Big Brothers/Big Sisters Mentor,School Mural Painter, Youth Group Officer

Madison TruscinskiBadger High School

School Activities: Robotics, Student Council, Target/TeamUp, Art Club, Math Club, National Honor Society,Family, Career and Community Leaders of America

Athletics: Volleyball, Basketball, GolfFine Arts: Band, Choir, One Act PlayCommunity Service: 4-H Volunteer, Church Volunteer

and Musician, Holiday Event Volunteer, Meals on Wheels,Community Events Volunteer, Blood Drive, Youth SportsCoach, Elementary Family Event Planner


Since Boardapproval of the

District FootballScheduling conceptin January, planshave been developedto place schools indistricts so that theactual scheduling cantake place. Schoolshave been providedwith updates on theprocess and timeline.

All schools wereasked to fill out aschool informationform that was due inthe League Office onApril 15. Teams thatare eligible to play 9-man also had todeclare whether ornot they will opt upto 11-man; and co-ops also had to befinalized by April 15.

A 10-memberplacement committee

has been selected.The committeemembers are listedbelow. Thiscommittee will bemeeting in April andMay to assignschools to districts.This committee willalso provideguidelines andleadership to thedistricts as theyformulate their plansfor scheduling.

The goal of thisplacement committeeis to finalize thedistrict assignmentsby late May. TheAthletic DirectorsAdvisory Committeewill review theassignments andmakerecommendations tothe Board ofDirectors. The Boardis schedule toapprove district

assignments attheir meeting onJune 2.

Districts will beable to hold initialmeetings eitherover the summer orin August. Allschools in eachdistrict will beinvited to attendthese initialorganizationalmeetings. At thosemeetings, schoolswill be able to sharetheir thoughts onscheduling and howthe district can bestructured.Additional meetingsmay be needed tofinalize thisstructure. Eventually,either one individualor a small committeecan be used todevelop theschedules based onthe parameters

established for eachdistrict. Theseschedules would thenbe approvedaccording to theorganizationalstructure of eachdistrict. The goal isto have schedules for2015 and 2016finalized by Nov. 1,2014.

Members of thePlacementCommittee are: BradJohnson, Rochester;Todd Oye, Luverne;

Committee chosen to create districts for football schedulingCommittee chosen to create districts for football schedulingCommittee chosen to create districts for football schedulingCommittee chosen to create districts for football schedulingCommittee chosen to create districts for football scheduling

Chuck Evert, BattleLake; Mike Biermaier,Thief River Falls;Brent Schimek, DeerRiver; Derek Parendo,Proctor; John Ross,Sartell; Brian Brown,Concordia Academy-Roseville; Dan Roff,Fridley; and RickSutton, Eagan.

The goal of thisplacement

committee is tofinalize the district

assignments by lateMay.



Athletic administrators and coaches need to make surethey are versed in the League’s Board policy pertaining

to the presence of lightning and threatening weather. Onevery important sentence was recently added to the policy,requiring game officials and administrators to consult withon-site medical personnel prior to deciding to begin,postpone or cancel a contest when weather conditionsthreaten the safety of participants and spectators.

That sentence reads: On-site medical professionalsshould also be consulted and included in the decision-making process.

The entire policy reads as follows:

Board Policy: Lightning/Threatening WeatherPrior to the start of a contest, the host school is

responsible for determining whether or not the conditionspresent a threat to the safety of participants andspectators and will determine whether or not the contestwill begin. Once the contest begins, the officials have theauthority to postpone or suspend a contest due to unsafeweather conditions — that decision may not be overruled.School officials also still have this authority. On-sitemedical professionals should also be consulted andincluded in the decision-making process. TheSuperintendent or his/her designee may overrule anofficial and suspend or postpone a contest once it hasbegun. In other words, once a contest has begun either theofficials or school authorities may postpone or suspend acontest and cannot be overruled by the other party. Whenin doubt, err on the side of safety.

While lightning on the horizon should warn of potentialdanger, lightning associated with thunder or thunder alonemeans that there is immediate danger to athletes,officials, and spectators. The adage — “If you can hear it,clear it” — should be used to make decisions to postponeor cancel the activity. Lightning can strike 10 miles aheadof or behind the storm front and thunderhead clouds.

When considering resumption of an athletic activity, theMSHSL recommends that everyone should wait at least 30

minutes after the last flash of lighting or sound of thunderbefore returning to the field or activity.

Additional lightning-safety guidelines have beendeveloped with the assistance of the National SevereStorms Laboratory (NSSL) and are listed below:

1. As a minimum, NSSL staff strongly recommend thatby the time the monitor obtains a flash-to-bang count of30 seconds (equivalent to six miles), all individuals shouldhave left the athletics site and reached a safe structure orlocation. Athletic events may need to be terminated.

2. The existence of blue sky and the absence of rain arenot protection from lightning. Lightning can, and does,strike as far as 10 miles away from the rain shaft. It doesnot have to be raining for lightning to strike.

3. If no safe structure or location is within a reasonabledistance, find a thick grove of small trees surrounded bytaller trees or a dry ditch. Assume a crouched position onthe ground with only the balls of the feet touching theground, wrap your arms around your knees and lower yourhead. Minimize contact with the ground because lightningcurrent often enters a victim through the ground ratherthan by a direct overhead strike. MINIMIZE YOUR BODY’SSURFACE AREA AND MINIMIZE CONTACT WITH THEGROUND! DO NOT LIE FLAT! If unable to reach safeshelter, stay away from the tallest trees or objects (suchas light poles or flag poles), metal objects (such as fencesor bleachers), individual trees, standing pools of water,and open fields. Avoid being the highest object in a field.Do not take shelter under a single, tall tree.

4. A person who feels his or her hair stand on end orskin tingle should immediately crouch, as described initem 3.

5. Avoid using the telephone except in emergencysituations. People have been struck by lightning whileusing a land-line telephone. A cellular phone or a portableremote phone is a safe alternative to land-line phones ifthe person and the antenna are located within a safe

On-site medical personnel should be consultedwhen making weather-related contest decisions

See WWWWWeather eather eather eather eather on Page 19

The adage — “Ifyou can hear it,clear it” — shouldbe used to makedecisions topostpone or cancelthe activity.Lightning can strike10 miles ahead ofor behind the stormfront andthunderheadclouds.



For the 2014 spring Clay Target League, 185 teamshave been assigned conferences based on a similar

number of team members. Classes have been designatedby a number of similar conference sizes.

Class AConference 1BOLDCathedralFisherGoodhueHerman-NorcrossLake Park-AudubonConference 2BlackduckCambridge-IsantiECHO Charter SchoolEden Valley-WatkinsFrazee/VergasGlenville-EmmonsConference 3Central Minnesota

ChristianHawleyKelliherKingslandMaple RiverMarshall County

CentralMenahgaConference 4Blooming PrairieLitchfieldLong Prairie-Grey

EagleMilacaMoraOgilvieParkers PrairieTartanWabasha-KelloggConference 5AshbyBattle LakeByronLafayetteRandolphSouthwest ChristianSt. JamesTritonWabassoConference 6Brandon-EvansvilleClinton-Graceville-

BeardsleyGrand Meadow

Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg

New London-SpicerSpring Lake ParkSt. Paul Academy and

Summit SchoolWadena-Deer CreekZumbrota-MazeppaConference 7Bloomington

KennedyHutchinsonKimballLakeviewMath and Science

AcademyMounds ViewPequot LakesSt. Louis ParkWalker-Hackensack-

AkeleyConference 8AnnandaleBuffaloDetroit LakesLake of the WoodsLegacy Christian

AcademyMACCRAYRichfield/Academy of

Holy AngelsUnderwoodWorthingtonConference 9CrookstonDassel-CokatoHoly Family CatholicMartin County West/

TrimontMayer LutheranPierz/HealyPillagerPine IslandTruman

Class AAConference 1Bethlehem AcademyDuluth EastFergus FallsLeSueur-HendersonRushford-PetersonStaples-MotleyUnited South CentralWoodburyConference 2BeckerCannon FallsClevelandHenry SibleyMedfordPerhamProctorRobbinsdale

ArmstrongConference 3BrainerdBreckenridgeKasson-MantorvilleMound WestonkaRoseauSouth St. PaulWillmarConference 4Badger/Greenbush-

Middle RiverCanbyNorwood-Young

AmericaHermantownHibbingIrondaleRockfordSibley EastConference 5Alden-CongerAndoverChamplin ParkCoon RapidsCretin-Derham HallInternational FallsKenyon-WanamingoPine River-BackusWaterville-Elysian-

Morristown

Class AAAConference 1East Grand ForksEdinaMahtomediNew York MillsNew Richland-H-E-GSt. Thomas AcademyZimmermanConference 2Bloomington

JeffersonGrand RapidsJordanLac qui Parle ValleyLester Prairie/Holy

Trinity/Watertown-Mayer

MontevideoMountain LakeSt. Anthony VillageConference 3Benilde-St.

Margaret’sBensonFoleyForest LakeHopkinsOronoPlainview-Elgin-

MillvilleWaconiaConference 4AnokaBelle PlaineEden PrairieGlencoe-Silver LakeHeritage Christian

AcademyMonticelloNorman CountyPrincetonSt. Francis

Class AAAAConference 1BemidjiBig LakeElk RiverMcGregor/Aitkin/

CromwellNicolletWarroadWhite Bear Lake AreaConference 2Apple ValleyEast RidgeFairmontThief River FallsMarshallMinnetonkaParkPrior LakeConference 3AustinCentennialDelanoFaribaultFarmingtonMorris AreaSt. Michael-

AlbertvilleTotino-Grace

Class AAAAAConference 1BurnsvilleChaska/ChanhassenEaganEastviewNorthfieldRogersSimleyConference 2AlexandriaBlaineNew PragueRosemountShakopeeWayzataConference 3HastingsLakeville NorthLakeville SouthStillwater Area

185 schools participating in 2014

Target .............................................................. continued from Page 14

● Friday, June13: Practice all dayuntil dusk

● Saturday, June14: Morning — TeamCompetition;Afternoon —IndividualCompetition

GeneralInformation● Schools may

partner to formteams withoutforming a LeagueCooperativeAgreement.

● Participants

must provide theirown shotgun andammunition.

● Boys, girls andstudents withdisabilities allparticipate on thesame teams.

● Conduct,

procedure and safetyrequirements willfollow the MinnesotaState High SchoolClay Target League’sPolicies andProcedures.

ContactInformationJohn Nelson is the

vice president of theClay Target Leagueand he is theindividual to contactto answer all ClayTarget Leaguequestions. Contacthim at [email protected] or612-490-1388.


By Jody RedmanAssociate Director

Have you evergiven any thought

to where yourcoaching philosophycame from? Why doyou coach the wayyou do? Joe Ehrmann,the author ofInSideOut Coaching,states, “When Istarted coaching Ihadn’t thoughtthrough the need toclarify why I wascoaching or how I wascoaching. I justcoached the way I hadbeen coached—or theway I had seen otherscoach—for better or,more typically forworse.” To becomeaware of how ourcoaching philosophywas formed anddeveloped, we musttake an in-depth lookat our lifeexperiences—wemust examine ourpast.

Ehrmann statesthat the process ofexamining our pastbegins by answeringthe followingquestions regardingthe coaches whoimpacted us. In doingso, we can gaininsight into the valuesand beliefs weacquired from each ofthem. This in-depthlook at where our

coaching philosophyoriginated begins byreflecting on andanswering thefollowing questions:

● How positivewas our playingexperience? Hownegative?

● What did welearn from eachcoach? What do wewish we hadn’t?

● What were ourdevelopmental needs?Were they met?

● How did thecoach make us feelabout ourselves?

● Did the coachshape and mold ourcharacter in a positiveor negative way?

● How did thecoach treat ourteammates?

● Was there aconsistent moral orethical dimension totheir coaching?

● How do I feelabout the coach nowthat I am an adult?

There is a higherlevel of awarenessthat occurs when wego inside of ourselvesand look at ourpersonal experiences.Taking an in-depthlook at how we wereinfluenced will bringto light why we coach,interact and respondto the students on ourteam the way that wedo.

The way we

interact with ourstudents reflects theway our past coachesinteracted with uswhen we werestudents. Ourresponses arehabitual, a part of ourroutine, and comefrom those whoinfluenced us.Ehrmann shares, “Mycoaching was ahodgepodge ofunsorted, memory-driven impulsesthrown at my players.I gave littleforethought to theireffect oreffectiveness. I didnot look inside,account for mybehavior, and adjust itbefore it reached theoutside and turnedinto lifelong, andsometimes hurtful,memories for myathletes.”

Is the way weinteract with our

Why do we coach the way we do?

students damagingthem or helping themto grow? Are weTransactional orTransformationalcoaches?

Do we see ourstudents as human“doers” whose worthcomes from theirperformance? If theanswer is yes, wewould be defined as aTransactional coach.We look for what wecan get out ofcoaching and notwhat we can give; weignore the athlete’sdevelopmental needsand instead define ourown success based onour students’“doings.” Our identity,purpose and self-worth come from ourstudents’performance.

Coaches who seetheir students ashuman “beings”operate from a muchdifferent place. TheseTransformationalcoaches believe youngpeople can grow andflourish in andthrough sports. Theyintentionally create aplace where studentswant to be, notbecause of what they“do,” but instead,simply because they“are” human beings.

It takes caring,intentional, andtransformationaladults to create aplace where studentsare accepted simplybecause they “are.”For this to happen, wemust recreate ourcoaching philosophy

by incorporating thepositive thingsobtained from ourpast that should becarried forward, andby averting thenegative things thatdamaged us when wewere students. Wedidn’t have a choiceabout who ourcoaches were, but wedo have a choiceabout the kind ofcoaches we are. Wemust make aconscious choiceabout the kind ofcoach we want to beand what we want ourstudents to learn andobtain from us.

Becoming aware ofwhy we coach,interact and respondto students the waywe do, and activelypursuing positivechange to our ownhabitual responseswill have a life-longimpact on thestudents we coach.Educator Fred Rogersstates, “It’s true thatwe take a great dealof our own upbringinginto our adult lives;but it’s true, too, thatwe can change thethings that we wouldlike to change. It canbe hard, but it can bedone.”

Our students arecounting on us to dowhat is hard andbecome intentionalabout why we coachthe way we do. Ourchoices will have alife-long impact onthe students wecoach.

Becoming aware ofwhy we coach,interact andrespond to studentsthe way we do, andactively pursuingpositive change toour own habitualresponses will havea life-long impacton the students wecoach.




Weather ........................................................... continued from Page 16

structure or location and if all other precautions arefollowed.

6. People who have been struck by lightning do notcarry an electrical charge. Therefore, cardiopulmonaryresuscitation (CPR) is safe for the responder. If possible,

an injured person should be moved to a safer locationbefore starting CPR. Lightning-strike victims who showsigns of cardiac or respiratory arrest need emergency helpquickly. Prompt, aggressive CPR has been highly effectivefor the survival of victims of lightning strikes.

By William O. Roberts,M.D., M.S.

When a sportsafety problem

arises, there isalways anentrepreneur readyto step in and solvethe problem. Oftenwithout data andbased on a wing anda prayer. Despitemanufacturers’claims, there is nohelmet on the marketthat can preventconcussions evenwith the addition ofadd-on pads and/or amouth guard. While itmight seem like asolution should lie inthe helmet, thelocation and anatomyof the brain insidethe skull makes thisa very difficultproblem to solve.

A researchpresentation at lastfall’s AmericanAcademy ofPediatrics (AAP)National ConferenceStudy demonstratedno difference inconcussion riskamong high schoolfootball players usingdifferent brands andages of helmets. Inaddition, customcompared to stock oroff-the-shelf mouthguards did not alterrisk either. One of theco-investigators wasquoted in a newsrelease stating, “Ourpreliminary findingssuggest that neitherany specific brand offootball helmet norcustom mouthguards result infewer concussions inkids who use them.

Despite whatmanufacturers mightclaim, newer andmore expensiveequipment may notreduce concussionrisk. So is it worththe significant extracost to families andschools?”

The studyincluded 36 highschools with injuriestracked by athletictrainers throughoutthe 2012 footballseason. There werethree predominatehelmet brands thatwere used by theschools, some datingback to the 2002season. Just overhalf the players woregeneric mouth guardsprovided by schoolsand the others worecustom mouthguards fitted bydental providers orsold as concussionreducing models.There was nodifference inconcussion incidencebased on helmetbrand or mouthguard type.

This is both goodand bad news. Thegood news is thatschools do not haveto go out andpurchase newhelmets. The badnews is that we haveto rely on fair playand the rules of thegame to improveconcussion safety.

Helmets must bereconditioned andproperly fitted tofunction well. Whilehelmets do notprevent concussion,they do prevent skullfractures and scalp/face lacerations, andmay in some

instances reduce theseverity ofconcussion. Helmetcaps and headbandsare also marketed toreduce concussion,but again there is nodata to support theiruse. The illusion ofsafety may actuallyinduce players totake unnecessaryrisks and increaseconcussions. Themainstay ofconcussionprevention incollision sports iskeeping the head outof contact with otherplayers and theground.

The issue clearlyhas the nation’sattention because theU.S. Senate isinvolved in thediscussions andreviewingmanufacturersclaims. Hopefullythese hearings willlead to truth inadvertising forhelmets and otherproducts claiming toreduce concussion. Inaddition, the NFL hassettled a lawsuit withthe playersassociation overconcussion problems

If it sounds too good to be true…Concussion-proof products — a word of caution

for $765 milliondollars.

So, the take-awaymessage onconcussionprevention is simplystated: Do not rely onthe helmet, mouthguards, or helmetadd-ons. Limit headcontact in practices,and teach/enforcestrict compliancewith the rules.

William O.Roberts, M.D., M.S.,is a professor ofFamily Medicine andCommunity Health,Division of SportsMedicine, Universityof Minnesota MedicalSchool, and also ischair of the League’sSports MedicineAdvisory Committee.

“Our preliminaryfindings suggestthat neither any

specific brand offootball helmet nor

custom mouthguards result in

fewer concussionsin kids who use

them. Despite whatmanufacturers

might claim, newerand more expensiveequipment may notreduce concussionrisk. So is it worth

the significant extracost to families and

schools?”




At its April 3meeting the

League Board ofDirectors approvedthree policies toforward to theRepresentativeAssembly that willdirectly impactfootball, with onepolicy eventuallyimpacting othersports as well.Copies of thesepolicies with thespecifics have beensent to all memberschools and are alsoavailable on theLeague website.

The first policyonly impacts footballand sets a limit onthe number ofquarters in which anindividual player canparticipate within athree-day period oftime. There arecurrently rules whichlimit the number ofquarters per season,but not within a dailyor weekly timeframe. This newpolicy will still allowlower level players toparticipate in varsity

games while alsoplaying at a lowerlevel, but putsparameters on thatparticipation in orderto protect the safetyof the participant.The seasonlimitations remain.

The second policysets more strictlimitations on whatfootball coaches cando with their playersduring the summerwaiver period.Currently there areno limitations. The

Football policies going to Representative AssemblyFootball policies going to Representative AssemblyFootball policies going to Representative AssemblyFootball policies going to Representative AssemblyFootball policies going to Representative Assemblynew policy willrequire a four-dayacclimatizationperiod and will limitthe number days onwhich there can befull physical contactto six. There are alsolimitations on thelength of anindividual practiceand limitations onthe total time ofpractice in one day.

The third policyregulates theacclimatization ofathletes in the pre-

season and for now,would only apply tofootball. This policywould requireschools/teams toacclimatize theirathletes over a 14-day period of time —practice lengths areregulated, thenumber of practicesper day is regulated,as is the amount ofrest requiredbetween practices.When full pads canbe worn is definedand person-to-person

physical contacted isalso regulated.

NCAA footballteams and the NFLalso follow thisprotocol, based ontherecommendationsfrom the NationalAssociation ofAthletic Trainers.Following thisprotocol will be saferfor student-athletesand still allow themto be ready for theirfirst games bothphysically andmentally.

The Board hasalso asked staff andthe Sports MedicineAdvisory Committeeto look at this Pre-SeasonAcclimatizationPolicy and todetermine what othersports should have asimilar policy.

Member schoolsare encouraged toreview and discussthese policies andthen contact theirRepresentativeAssemblyrepresentative toshare where theystand on theserecommendations.

NCAA footballteams and the NFLalso follow thisprotocol, based ontherecommendationsfrom the NationalAssociation ofAthletic Trainers.Following thisprotocol will besafer for student-athletes and stillallow them to beready for their firstgames bothphysically andmentally.


By Grant Morrison,M.D., C.A.Q.

Stretching iscommonly

promoted as amethod to improveperformance, preventinjury or decreasemuscle soreness inathletic activities.However, recentresearch shows thatstretching may notprovide thesebenefits aspreviously thought.

There aredifferent types ofstretching:

Static stretchingis the traditionaltechnique in which aperson applies aconstant stretch to amuscle for a shortperiod of time. Thismay lengthen themuscle and increaseflexibility over time,but can also loosen ajoint and make itmore unstable. Amuscle, in the restingstate, has someamount of tension orrecoil. Excessivestretching beforeathletic activity candecrease thistension, therebyreducing muscleperformance andincreasing risk ofinjury.

Proprioceptiveneuromuscularfacilitation (PNF) is astretching techniquein which a musclegroup is firstpassively stretchedby a partner and heldin this position. Themuscle is thenactively contractedagainst resistancewhile in the stretchedposition, and ispassively stretchedagain. This cycle isrepeated numeroustimes. PNF canmarkedly increaseflexibility.

Dynamicstretching uses shortspurts of muscleelongation in theform of exaggeratedand controlled

movement thatlengthens the musclewhile it is active.Examples includearm swings, slowlong strides and legswinging. Dynamicstretching can help ina warm-up byincreasing muscletemperature.Dynamic stretchingcan improve musclepower andexplosiveness.

Stretching byitself is not shown toprevent injury orimproveperformance. A well-balanced exerciseprogram involvingaerobic exercises,resistance training,core strengtheningand stretching willimprove performancein athletic activities.

In summary,dynamic stretchesshould be performed

Stretching — three types explained

before athleticactivity to warm upthe body withoutcausing fatigue. Thisprepares muscles forhigher level activity.Static stretching ismost beneficial afteractivity to increaseflexibility. The goal ofstretching should beto prevent excessivestiffness, keeping inmind that moreflexibility is notnecessarily better.

Grant Morrison isa sports medicinephysician who caresfor patients of allages with muscle,bone and jointconditions at FairviewSports andOrthopedic Care inEden Prairie. Heprovides medicalcoverage for theMinnesota State HighSchool League and is

an associate medicaldirector of the TwinCities Marathon.Fairview is the officialsports medicineprovider for theMinnesota State HighSchool League.Fairview’s family oforthopedic servicesincludes FairviewSports andOrthopedic Care andthe Institute forAthletic Medicine.

Stretching by itselfis not shown to

prevent injury orimprove

performance. Awell-balanced

exercise programinvolving aerobic

exercises,resistance training,core strengtheningand stretching will

improveperformance in

athletic activities.



OfficialsOfficialsOfficialsOfficialsOfficials

2014-15 officials registration upcoming

The registration period for officials to register for2014-15 will open in early May. Registrationinformation will be mailed to current registeredofficials the first week in May. If you do not receiveinformation by May 15, be sure to contact the Leagueoffice.

The deadline for returning officials to registerwithout a late fee is July 1, 2014.

Pay attention to fall sports rule changes

Fall sport coaches and officials are encouraged tomake themselves aware of the rule changes in theirsports. The National Federation has completed thatannual process for fall sports, and the results can befound on the League website via either a Coach’sClipboard or Official’s Corner page. Go to your sport onthe applicable page and the link to the news releasefrom the NFHS is provided. Look for “Rule Changes for2014.”

Thanks for sharing your facilities

The League extends its appreciation to the followingschools and their athletic administrator for hostingtraining clinics for officials this spring: Jeff Whisler,Roseville; Steve Alger, St. Peter; Ryan Hanlon, Fosston;Luke Lutterman, Sauk Rapids-Rice; Mike Martin,Hawley; and Jerry Pettinger, Benilde-St. Maragaret’s.

Providing the use of their facilities enabled us totrain more than 500 officials prior to the spring sportsseasons in baseball, softball, and track and field.

Northfield Nordic skiers sought,found, escorted final competitor

The followinge-mail was sent toNorthfield Nordic SkiCoach Ken Drivdahland shared with theLeague.

Ken,I don’t know if

you were aware ofthe help a couple ofyour skiers providedlast week as themeet was ending.

I was doing the timing for the Rochester team, andyou had instructed some of your team to start pullingflags and cones. As the two who came from thewoods just before the finish line I asked if they hadseen our last skier? They indicated they had not, andvolunteered go out and sweep the course and findher.

I know they were cold already but they brushed itoff and then took off backwards on the course. Justas they crested the hill our girl showed up. Your twoskiers stayed with her to the finish (the coursemarkers had been pulled), so she wouldn’t get offcourse and to offer encouragement.

This unselfish act should not go unacknowledged.I’m sorry I didn’t get their names but I think theywere JV skiers, a boy and a girl. I’m sure they willremember. Please pass our thanks to them and therest of your team for showing good sportsmanshipand disregard for their own comfort to help a fellowskier.

Even though the Rochester Nordic Ski Team is notMSHSL affiliated, I am sharing this information withthe League. Even though we don’t hit, kick, or throwanything we are still are a sport with greatsportsmanship shown all of the time.

Best of luck and keep the slick side down.

Don Pankowski, Tish Torchia and Erik LindbergRochester Nordic Ski Team Coaches

Albany vs.MinnewaskaArea girls’basketballgame one ofseason’s bestfor officials

The followinge-mail was sent toAlbany Girls’Basketball Coach Aaron Boyum, Minnewaska AreaGirls’ Basketball Coach Brett Thorfinnson, theirrespective activities directors, and shared with theLeague.

Coach Boyum and Coach Thorfinnson,Ryan Mogard, Vance Gullickson, and I officiated

your girls’ basketball game at Minnewaska AreaHigh School on Friday, Feb. 28. I have been fortunateto have had several positive officiating experiencesduring the current basketball season, but Fridaynight’s was one of the best of the year, if not thebest, and we wanted to commend you and yourteams.

Although the final score may not have beenindicative of a close game, both coaching staffs andall players made the game a really enjoyableofficiating experience. The girls played hard andwere respectful of their opponents and the officials.The coaches coached hard and were respectful of theofficials. Game management took great care of usbefore, during, and after the game, which wasappreciated as well.

So, we commend and thank both of you, yourcoaching staffs, your players, your basketballprograms, and your schools. Thank you for being apart of a truly enjoyable officiating experience.

Scott Monson(on behalf of Ryan Mogard and Vance Gullickson)Morris Officials’ Association


Front (L-R): Ron Ackerman, Jill Wahman, Brenda Holmgren, M J, Wagenson. Back (L-R): Kevin Merkle,Lefty Yurek. Paul Nesvig, Bozo Wincek, Jared Butson.


Game officials are extremely important — without themwe cannot have games. For years the League has

recognized officials for years of service. In 2010 a moreextensive awards program, sponsored by Wells Fargo, wasintroduced. At the 2014 State Boys’ BasketballTournament in March we honored the following individualsand associations.

The Distinguished Service Award recognizes thoseindividuals who go “above and beyond” in their service totheir local officials’ association and whose service has hada significant impact on our students. The recipients were:

Randy Czarnetzki, Willmar — Randy has been aregistered official for 32 years, officiating volleyball,softball and basketball. He was the founder of the NorthCentral Volleyball Association in 1990, which has grown tomore than 100 members covering a large portion ofcentral Minnesota. Randy has recruited and mentoredmany officials and is equally respected by both coachesand officials. As one coach stated, “The match is not abouthim and how he thinks a match should b officiated.Instead, he officiates as the rules are written and how theyapply to the level he is officiating.” Another coach stated,“I am always relieved to see Randy walk into the gym toofficiate our match.”

Paul Nesvig, Eagan — Paul has been a member of theGopher State Officials Association for 40 years, officiatingfootball, basketball and softball, including 12 statetournaments. Paul has been a board member for 34 years;

wrote the original bylaws for the association; and hasserved as their volunteer legal advisor. Paul trained andmentored many officials, always teaching them the rulethat is not in the rule book — the rule of “common sense.”Paul was not only an expert with the rules, but he alsounderstood what was fair and equitable. After beingretired for four years, Paul continues to give back to theassociation and continues to be an invaluable source ofofficiating knowledge and wisdom.

Bill Rhody, St. Paul — Bill has been a member of theSt. Paul Hockey Officials Association for 22 years. He hasserved on the board for 14 years, has been the recruitingcoordinator for 20 years, and has been an on-iceinstructor. Bill officiates with a level of class and dignitythat you rarely see in an official. He has the ability toconnect with both players and coaches, helping him to beone of the best at working through difficult situations.Every time he steps on the ice, officials, coaches, playersand fans have fun and enjoy the game. He is honest,sincere, and hardworking, with a great set of values andhe thrives on helping other people. Greatness can beachieved through service to others and Bill has servedothers his entire life, including the St. Paul HockeyOfficials Association.

M J Wagenson, Pine Island — M J has been a memberof the Rochester Area Officials Association for 26 years.

Individual officials and associations recognized

See Recognized Recognized Recognized Recognized Recognized on Page 25

The Leaguerecognizes thevalue and impact ofofficials in our highschool athleticprograms. Withoutofficials, our gamesare onlyscrimmages.Congratulationsand thanks to thisyear’s awardrecipients for theirmany years ofservice anddedication to highschool athleticsand the high schoolstudents ofMinnesota.

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Recognized...................................................... continued from Page 24She officiates basketball and softball at the high schoollevel and has worked in numerous state tournaments inboth sports. M J is a leader in educating, training andmentoring officials in Rochester and throughout the state.She has taught officiating classes at Rochester CommunityCollege. She has also assisted the association byscheduling officials for youth tournaments. She genuinelycares about those involved in a contest and takesadvantage of these events, seeing them as an opportunityto teach life lessons. She has and continues to donatemuch of her time, talent and knowledge to making officialsbetter in both basketball and softball.

Jill Wahman, St. Cloud — Jill has been an official for40 years and was an original member of the CentralMinnesota Gymnastics Judges Association. She was thescheduling secretary for 33 years and is currently thedirector. She also initiated a recruiting effort at a localcollege and also spearheaded a mentoring program fornew judges. She established an advisory committee for theassociation, updates the policy book yearly, and handlesthe finances. Jill has judged at the state meet many timesand is a tireless student of the rules and theirinterpretation. She is a great communicator, treatingeveryone with respect. Her hard work has helped make thesport of gymnastics better and safer for the participants.

Lefty Yurek, White Bear Lake — Lefty officiated for 53years and has been a member of the St. Paul Capital CityOfficials Association for 57 years. Lefty officiated footballand basketball, working at the state tournament level inboth sports. He served as the assignment secretary andthe treasurer for 41 years. He coordinated rules meetings,clinics, annual meetings and recognition banquets, alwaysholding officials to a high standard as the “heart and soul”of the association. He also established a code of conductfor the association and instilled a core value in officialsthat the games were “for the kids.” Lefty has taught andmentored literally hundreds of football and basketballofficials, including several who have officiated at theprofessional level.

The Citation Award is given annually to recognizeassociations for a specific program that has made asignificant impact on the association or the schools andathletes they serve. The recipients were:

Rochester Area Officials Association — Thisassociation was recognized for its efforts in training bothnew and veteran officials. The association conducts pre-season and in-season training for new and veteranofficials. Its members have also developed an innovativeprogram of weekly or biweekly rule quizzes, some of whichare done through a video format. The association

developed an annual summer camp for basketball officials,and members volunteer to work at pre-season scrimmagesin softball. Special meetings and training for new officialsare held at the beginning of the season, and all newofficials must work a minimum of 10 games with a mentorbefore being assigned to their own games. Thisassociation previously received a Citation Award for itsmentoring program.

Gold Country Wrestling Officials Association —This association was recognized for its mentoringprogram. For more than 15 years Gold Country has had aformal mentoring program for officials. Mentors are statetournament officials who are trained in conductingevaluations. These officials are assigned to younger andnewer officials. The new officials work matches with theirmentor, as well as with other senior officials, whilereceiving formal feedback. Officials must be in the mentorprogram for one to two years. The mentors turn inevaluations and this information is used to determinewhen officials are ready to be assigned to varsity matches.This program has helped Gold Country to continuallydevelop highly skilled and proficient officials.

The most prestigious award is the Association Award ofExcellence, which recognizes one association for theoverall quality and service they provide to Minnesotaschools. The 2014 Association Award of Excellence wasawarded to the Gopher State Officials Association.

The Gopher State Officials Association has been inexistence for 51 years, serving 125 schools in football,basketball, baseball and softball, with almost 400members, and almost 5,000 assignments each year. As anassociation its members do it all. They conduct extensivetraining for beginning and veteran officials. They haveestablished a peer evaluation system for umpires, a formalreview process for basketball officials, and programs forrecruiting, retaining and recognizing officials. Recently theassociation established a detailed, weekly e-learningprogram for football officials and they are in the processof establishing a sportsmanship recognition program forthe schools and conferences that they serve. The GopherState Officials Association also sets high standards andexpectations for its officials and holds them to thoseexpectations. Congratulations to the Gopher State OfficialsAssociation.

The League recognizes the value and impact of officialsin our high school athletic programs. Without officials, ourgames are only scrimmages. Congratulations and thanksto this year’s award recipients for their many years ofservice and dedication to high school athletics and thehigh school students of Minnesota.

Osseo trainer’s assistance appreciated

The following e-mail was sent to Osseo Activities Director Ray Kirch andshared with the League.

Hello Mr. Kirch,A week ago today our son, Trevor Siebold from Andover High School, was

playing in the sophomore basketball game at Osseo High School. He wentdown and injured his wrist. Your trainer, Lindsey Geesaman, was quick torespond as expected. Beyond that, she was so kind and helpful.

She let us know that there was a Twin Cities Ortho walk-in clinicavailable at Maple Grove Hospital until 8 p.m., although she was unsure if itwas open on Friday nights. She also helped Trevor out to my car in the snowstorm.

We did go to the clinic and got right in. It is open 7 days a week – 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Trevor did break thedistal radius in his left wrist and will be in a cast for 6 weeks.

Please pass on our thanks to Lindsey for helping us out and let her know about the clinic hours.

Janet and Brad Siebold



Apple Valleyboys handledloss withdignity

The followinge-mail was sent toAssociate DirectorKevin Merkle andalso shared withApple ValleyActivities DirectorPeter Buesgens.

Good Morning Kevin,I wanted to take a moment and e-mail you about

the Apple Valley boys’ basketball team and coaches.Over the past few years they have been in thespotlight of boys’ basketball in the state ofMinnesota. I have worked many of their games andwatched several as well.

They have handled the spotlight with class. Itstarts with Coach Goring — in my opinion he is oneof the greatest men we have in basketball inMinnesota. It shows in how his teams conductthemselves. In winning the state tournament lastyear to losing a heart-breaking 2OT game last night— they did it with class.

I was so impressed with how Coach Goring, hisstaff and players handled the defeat last night — theoverwhelming expectations they had this season yetthey didn’t go in a bad direction — they handledthemselves with class! Even though they didn’t winlast night, they are winners in my book!

Coach Goring is a class act and I have the utmostrespect for him and his program!

Dean KockelmanRegistered Official

Conferencerivals yes, butalso greatsports

The followingnote was e-mailed toLeague staff andcopied to theactivities directors ofChisago Lakes Areaand Monticello highschools.

Dear MSHSL,I am writing to comment about a boys’ basketball

game that had great sportsmanship and excellentcompetition between two very evenly matchedMississippi 8 Schools.

Monticello High School and Activities DirectorGary Revenig did a great job hosting an eventagainst a first class Chisago Lakes team. The contestwas very close throughout.

With about 4 minutes remaining in the game, twoplayers collided and a Chisago Lakes player wasknocked down. The Monticello athlete stopped inmid-stride and graciously helped the Chisago Lakesplayer off the floor.

This kind of sportsmanship should be commendedand noted.

Throughout the game, the Monticello and ChisagoLakes coaching staffs were overheard makingpositive comments to their players and also to theofficiating crew.

I have provideda picture of theevenly matchedjump ball that setthe tone for the restof the night.

Thank you toboth coachingstaffs for the greatsportsmanshipdisplayed and theleadership youprovide for yourathletes.

Bruce JeanRegistered OfficialGopher StateAssociation

Hutchinson wrestlers, coaches lauded for decorum

The following e-mail was sent to Hutchinson Principal Patrick Walsh andshared with the League.

Pat,I officiated all three Hutchinson duals this past Friday evening in Hector.

The Hutchinson wrestling team’s bench decorum and the coaches’ etiquetteare amazing. Coach (Todd) Card has the staff’s minds on task to coach theathletes and not the officials. There were no negative comments comingfrom the bench by coaching staff or competitors.

This goes along way as shown by the demeanor of the athletes as well asthe fans. First class group you have there. You should be proud of them. In

my mind they have set a standard as I have observed them for a few years now. Thanks for allowing me to bea part of this experience.

Mark LeVasseurRegistered Official



Thank you for teaching us a valuable lesson

The following note was e-mailed to Marshall Activities Director BruceRemme and Marshall Girls’ Basketball Coach Dan Westby, and shared withthe League.

Coach Westby,We have never met, but I have been involved in basketball officiating for

many years. I was sitting in the stands on Saturday night at Williams Arena.Congratulations on the excellent season and a hard-fought and memorableAAA title game.

Specifically, I want to commend the Marshall players during the awardsceremony. Despite coming up on the short end of a triple overtime thriller,your players accepted the second place medals and trophy with GRACE andCLASS. They smiled, high-fived all of their teammates and raised the trophy high in the air — proud of theiraccomplishment and shared it with the community of fans that drove three hours to support them.

When Park Center lifted its first place trophy, every one of your players applauded in such a way that youcould tell that they genuinely felt happy for their opponents even though they wished the game’s outcomewas different.

If you watched other Minnesota prep awards ceremonies during the last few weeks, too many of thesecond place team members behaved in stark contrast, either sulking or quickly removing the silver medalsfrom their necks. Perhaps it’s a byproduct of the “win at all costs” culture that exists these days.

While I understand that “kids are kids” and losing in the finals can be terribly disappointing, it was sorefreshing to see the Marshall players demonstrate the highest level of sportsmanship on the biggest stage infront of a statewide television audience.

Kudos to you, your coaching staff, your players and their parents. Obviously, you have collectively done agreat job of teaching them to play basketball and teaching them about sportsmanship — lessons that last alifetime.

Thanks for teaching the rest of us a valuable lesson — that placing second in the state tournament isNOTHING TO BE ASHAMED OF. Marshall should be very proud of the way that your players representedthemselves, their families, their school and the community. Congratulations! Derek WoldenStillwater

The following is Bruce Remme’s reply.

Derek,On behalf of everyone here at Marshall Public Schools, I would like to thank you for your kind words and fortaking the time to share your perspective. We truly appreciate your reaching out to us in this way. We areextremely proud of our players and coaches, both for their season-long accomplishments and for the way theyrepresent themselves, their school, and their community. We couldn’t be more proud of their conduct at thetournament and throughout the season. They are as you referenced, a classy group and we are happy to hearthey left you with that same impression.

Thanks again for sharing. We appreciate it greatly.

Bruce

The following is Dan Westby’s reply.

Derek-Thanks for your note and thanks for your kind words.I’m not sure I’ve been on the short end of a game that stung as bad as our loss on Saturday night to Park

Center. Believe me when I say that everyone involved with our team couldn’t have been more disappointed inthe outcome.

With that being said, I couldn’t have been prouder of our players. They handled an incredibly difficultsituation with the utmost class and dignity. It is nice to hear that their positive behavior did not go unnoticed.

As we’ve told our players many times, “competition brings out the best and the worst in people.” I’d like tothink that it has brought out the absolute best in the kids we have involved in our program here in Marshall.

Prior to the start of the third overtime I commented to the official in front of our bench, “I don’t know howthis thing is going to turn out, but I just want to tell you that you guys are doing one heck of a job under themost difficult of situations.” That type of game is difficult for everyone involved.

It is nice to hear from someone who’s impartial that our kids did things the right way.Thanks again for taking the time to write your e-mail. If you don’t mind, I’d like to share your message at

our end-of-the-year banquet.Enjoy your spring.

Dan

Editor’s Note: In addition to officiating basketball at the youth, high school and college levels, Derek Woldenis the author of BasketCases: How Youth Basketball Parents Can Lower Their Blood Pressure and Keep TheirSanity, a 2009 National Indie Excellence Book Award Finalist. (www.basketcasesbook.com)


Board ofBoard ofBoard ofBoard ofBoard ofDirectorsDirectorsDirectorsDirectorsDirectorsMeetingMeetingMeetingMeetingMeetingMinutesMinutesMinutesMinutesMinutes

Summary of the Minutes of the December 5, 2013, Board of Directors MeetingReflection, Pledge of Allegiance

Board Actions1. Approved the Agenda with the following change: Move

Action Item 9F (Football Format/Scheduling Changesfor 2015 & 2016) to Discussion Item 10D.

2. Approved Minutes of the October 3, 2013 Board ofDirectors meeting.

3. No individuals or delegations had asked to speak tothe Board regarding any of the identified Agendaitems.

4. Board of Directors comments were received includingbudget surplus of $1 billion dollars would be used topay back schools; and commending staff on well runfall tournaments.

5. Legislative Report received that the 2014 LegislativeSession will start on February 25, 2014; revenueprojections have come back strong; and conferenceplacement process discussions.

6. Legal Counsel’s Report received that counsel isworking with staff on facility agreements; Hearingsregarding Eligibility Appeals; and gave an update onthe federal lawsuit.

7. Executive Director’s report included:● Update on Conference Placement Hearings;● Fall Tournaments are completed;● Staff updates on fall activities; and● Executive Director was asked to presentinformation relative to the Minnesota RoboticsTournament to the Arizona Interscholastic AssociationBoard of Directors.

8. President’s report included:● Discussion of MSHSL staffing needs;● Granted request from St. Louis Park to remain inClass A for Girls’ Hockey;● Forward Cooperative Sponsorship 30-day prior tostart of season deadline to Representative Assemblyfor consideration; and● One Act Play webcasting and/or televising.

9. Approved the Conference Placement Committee’srecommendation and the Independent Hearing

Officer’s recommendation that Benilde-St. Margaret’sbe placed into the Metro West Conference.

10. Approved the Conference Placement Committee’srecommendation that St. Thomas Academy be placedinto the Metro East Conference.

11. Approved the 2014 and 2015 State SoccerTournament dates and sites as presented.

12. Approved a Journalism Partnership with theMinnesota High School Press Association. Thisinitiative was introduced at the October 3, 2013Board of Directors meeting.

13. Approved the Baseball Advisory Committee’srecommendation to increase the official baseballsquad from 18 to 20 players.

14. Approved the 2015 Football Playoff Schedule aspresented.

15. Tabled action of the start of the 2015-2016 footballseason until staff has a recommendation from theSports Medicine Advisory Committee regarding heat,days of practice before the first game, and otherrelated medical issues.

16. Approved the Eligibility Committee minutes from theDecember 5, 2013 meeting as presented.

17. Approved the September and October 2013 financialreports as presented.

18. Approved the following amendment to the 403(b)Plan: All employees shall be eligible to becomeparticipants in the 403(b) Plan for purposes ofelective deferrals except those Employees whonormally work fewer than 20 hours per week.

Discussion ItemsA. Kevin Merkle facilitated a discussion regarding the

District Football Scheduling Plan and answeredquestions Board Members asked during thediscussion. District Football Scheduling will be anaction item at the January 23, 2014 Board Meeting.Information will be shared with and input will beprovided by member schools.

B. Lisa Lissimore spoke regarding the Softball Advisory

Official down, Warroad AD handled it well

The following letter was sent to Warroad Superintendent Craig Oftedahland shared with the League.

Craig Oftedahl:I wanted to pass along a big thank you to the staff of Warroad High

School, and in particular, Activities Director Steve Bengston, for their effortson Feb. 18. That night, your boys’ basketball team hosted Kittson Central.

One of our officials crews was assigned to the game. About halfwaythrough the second half, a collision occurred on the court, and one of ourofficials hit the floor.

Our referee Aaron Lenes hit the floor and his head slammed on the court.He was “knocked cold” right away, and an ambulance needed to be called.Steve Bengston immediately took control, calling for the ambulance, ensuring that Aaron was kept still, andensured that the situation was under control. He handled the conversations with the coaches, and ensuredthat once Aaron was in the care of medical personnel, the game could be finished.

Our other official, Pat Greendahl, finished the game “solo”...and both coaches also need to be thanked fortheir understanding that Pat was working the last 10 minutes by himself, and that one set of eyes was all theyhad on the court. Both benches and both sets of fans were very respectful of the whole situation.

After hearing the story of the night’s game, it became clear that your school was well prepared for this typeofsituation.

I’m glad to announce that Aaron, after sustaining a concussion during this game, has been cleared tocontinue his reffing season, and that he will be working in the state tournament next week.

From the Bemidji Basketball Officials Association, thank you for all you did for Aaron!

Brian SchultzBemidji Basketball Officials Association

See December 5 December 5 December 5 December 5 December 5 on Page 31


Board ofBoard ofBoard ofBoard ofBoard ofDirectorsDirectorsDirectorsDirectorsDirectorsMeetingMeetingMeetingMeetingMeetingMinutesMinutesMinutesMinutesMinutes

Summary of the Minutes of the January 23, 2014, Board of Directors MeetingReflection, Pledge of Allegiance

Board Actions1. Approved the Agenda.2. Approved Minutes of the December 5, 2013 Board of

Directors meeting.3. ● Kelly Sherwin, Football Advisory Committee,

Eastview, spoke in favor of the Class 6A PlayoffProposal (regarding seeding).● Rick Sutton, Football Association ExecutiveCommittee, Eagan, spoke in favor of the Class 6APlayoff Proposal.● Les Zellman, Activities Director and formerMSHSL Board President, St. James, spoke in favor ofDistrict Football Scheduling.● Jeff Boran, Activities Director, Waterville-Elysian-Morristown, spoke in favor of District FootballScheduling.● Ted Schultz, Activities Director, Minnetonka, spokein favor of District Football Scheduling.● Chris Chalmers, Activities Director, Albert Lea,spoke in favor of District Football Scheduling.● Mike Schmitz, Activities Director, Staples-Motley,spoke in favor of District Football Scheduling.● Jeff McGonigal, Associate Superintendent, Anoka-Hennepin School District, spoke in opposition ofDistrict Football scheduling and in support of a moreexpanded view for football which would includeinformation relative to economic issues in schoolcommunities.● Rob Norman, Activities Director, Blue Earth Area,spoke in favor of District Football Scheduling.

4. Board of Directors comments were received includingthe State Debate Tournament, and the success of theWhy We Play Conference.

5. Legislative report received that the 2014 LegislativeSession will begin in a month and some of theinitiatives being discussed are transfers with an IEP,AEDs, baseball players not running into catchers, andconference placement.

6. Legal Counsel’s report received that counsel isworking with staff on facility agreements and thereare no pending lawsuits.

7. Executive Director’s report included:● State Debate Tournament was held;● MSHSL “School Board Olympics” and staffpresentation at the MSBA Conference in January;● Office remodel complete;● Attendance at the mid-states meeting in Chicago;

● Upcoming presentation at the annual MASSPconference; and● Upcoming tournaments.

8. President’s report included:● Additional games approved for Mt. Iron Buhl asthey begin a softball program;● More discussion will be held on MSHSL Staffing;● Staff met with the Tunheim group regarding the100 Year Celebration;● Listening to Students Survey; and● Reviewed a draft Transgender Policy, legal counselis currently reviewing.

9. Approved the Softball Advisory Committee request tomove to a four class tournament including aconsolation game starting with the 2015-2016 schoolyear.

10. Approved moving forward with District FootballScheduling effective with the 2015-2016 school year.

11. Approved the 2015 Football Playoff Schedule aspresented.

12. Approved the start of the 2015-2016 Regular FootballSeason as presented.

13. Tabled action regarding the Football AdvisoryCommittee recommendation for Class 6A FootballPlayoff Proposal regarding the seeding process.

14. The Representative Assembly Meeting has been setfor May 12, 2014, 9:00 a.m. at Edinburgh, U.S.A. inBrooklyn Park, MN. Items that will be forwarded tothe Assembly for consideration will be provided toBoard members and will be reviewed at the AprilMeeting.

15. Approved the Eligibility Committee minutes from theJanuary 23, 2014 meeting as presented

16. Approved the November and December 2013 financialreports as presented.

17. Approved the Annual Financial Report for the yearending July 31, 2013.

18. Approved Administrative Region 4A $20,000 requestfor operating funds.

Discussion ItemsA. Joyce Swenson, Minnesota Academic Excellence

Foundation spoke to the Board regarding theopportunity for the MSHSL and MNAD to work jointlyover the next three years to pilot and administer theAcademic Decathlon program (Appendix F). This willbe an action item on the April Board of Directorsmeeting agenda.

The complete official Minutes may be obtained from theLeague office by the designated schools representative ofmember schools.

December 5 .................................................... continued from Page 29Committee Request to go to a four class tournament.This will be an action item at the January 23, 2014Board Meeting.

C. Due to time constraints, the Academic Decathlondiscussion was tabled to the January 23, 2014 BoardMeeting.

The complete, official Minutes may be obtained from theLeague office by the designated school representative ofmember schools.


CalendarsCalendarsCalendarsCalendarsCalendars

Spring 2014 Calendar of MeetingsApril 28 ....................... Area Meeting, Best Western, Fergus Falls, 9 a.m.April 29 ................. Area Meeting, Best Western, Thief River Falls, 9 a.m.April 30 ................................. Area Meeting, Valentini’s, Chisholm, 9 a.m.May 3 ............................. SAT National Test Date (www.collegeboard.org)May 6 ........ Area Meeting, The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Brainerd, 9 a.m.May 8 ..................... Area Meeting, Edinburgh USA, Brooklyn Park, 9 a.m.

May 12 Representative Assembly, Edinburgh USA, Brooklyn Park, 9 a.m.May 20 Athletic Directors Advisory Committee, League Office, 9:30 a.m.May 28 ............... Minnesota Adapted Athletics, League Office, 3:30 p.m.June 2 ............. League Board of Directors Mtg., League Office, 9:30 a.m.June 7 ............................ SAT National Test Date (www.collegeboard.org)June 14 ............................ ACT National Test Date (www.actstudent.org)

Congratulations to the Winter 2014 State Team ChampionsDebate ...................................................................................................................................................... Policy Debate Champion – MINNEAPOLIS SOUTH

Lincoln-Douglas Champion – ROBBINSDALE ARMSTRONGPublic Forum Debate Champion – MAPLE GROVE

One Act Play – Starred Performances ..................................................... A – NOVA CLASSICAL ACADEMY, St. Paul; BELLE PLAINE; PARK RAPIDS AREAAA – EASTVIEW, Apple Valley; BUFFALO; EAGAN; IRONDALE, New Brighton

Boys’ Alpine Skiing ........................................................................................................................................................... THE BLAKE SCHOOL, MinneapolisGirls’ Alpine Skiing ........................................................................................................................................................................................... MINNETONKABoys’ Nordic Skiing ........................................................................................................................................................................................... FOREST LAKEGirls’ Nordic Skiing .................................................................................................................................................................................................. WAYZATAGirls’ Hockey ............................................................................................................................................................... A – THE BLAKE SCHOOL, Minneapolis

AA – HILL-MURRAY, MaplewoodGirls’ Dance Team Jazz .............................................................................................................................. A – YELLOW MEDICINE EAST, Granite Falls

AA – BENILDE-ST. MARGARET’S, St. Louis ParkAAA – EASTVIEW, Apple Valley

High Kick .......................................................................................................................................................................... A – AITKINAA – TOTINO-GRACE, Fridley

AAA – EASTVIEW, Apple ValleyWrestling A – CHATFIELD

AA – SIMLEY, Inver Grove HeightsAAA – APPLE VALLEY

Girls’ Gymnastics ................................................................................................................................................................................... A – MELROSE AREAAA – ROSEVILLE AREA

Boys’ Hockey .................................................................................................................................................................................. A – EAST GRAND FORKSAA – EDINA

Boys’ Swimming & Diving ............................................................................................................................ A – ST. THOMAS ACADEMY, Mendota HeightsAA – WAYZATA

Boys’ Basketball .............................................................................................................................................................. A – BELGRADE-BROOTEN-ELROSAAA – ESKO

AAA – DELASALLE, MinneapolisAAAA – LAKEVILLE NORTH

Adapted Floor Hockey PI DIVISION ............................................................................................................. ROBBINSDALE/HOPKINS/MOUND WESTONKACI DIVISION ......................................................................................................... NEW PRAGUE/TCU/LSH/BELLE PLAINE/JORDAN

Girls’ Basketball .............................................................................................................................................................................. A – WIN-E-MAC, ErskineAA – NEW RICHLAND-H-E-G

AAA – PARK CENTER, Brooklyn ParkAAAA – EASTVIEW, Apple Valley

Spring 2014 Calendar of State EventsTBD by each Region ..................................................................................................................................................... VISUAL ARTS - TBD by each RegionApril 11-12 ....................................................................................... STATE SPEECH TOURNAMENT – Class AA (11) & Class A (12), Blaine High SchoolTBD by each Region ........................................ SECTION/STATE MUSIC CONTESTS/FESTIVALS - various Minnesota sites, dates TBD by each RegionMay 16 .................................................................................................... STATE ADAPTED BOWLING TOURNAMENT – Brunswick Zone, Brooklyn ParkMay 17 ........................................................................................................... STATE ROBOTICS TOURNAMENT – University of Minnesota, MinneapolisMay 17 ................................................................................................................................................................. Final date of GIRLS’ BADMINTON seasonMay 30-31 ....................................................................................................... STATE ADAPTED SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT – Coon Rapids High SchoolJune 3-6 ...................................................................................... STATE BOYS’ TENNIS TOURNAMENT – Class AA @ Baseline Tennis Center, U of M;

Class A @ Reed-Sweatt Family Tennis Center, MinneapolisJune 5-6 .......................................................................................................... STATE GIRLS’ SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT – Caswell Park, North MankatoJune 6-7 ................................................................................................................................. STATE TRACK & FIELD MEET – Hamline University, St. PaulJune 7 ................................................................................................................................................ Final date of GIRLS’ SYNCHRONIZED SWIM seasonJune 10-11 .................................................................................... STATE GOLF TOURNAMENT – Class AAA @ Bunker Hills Golf Course, Coon Rapids;

Class AA @ Ridges at Sand Creek, Jordan;Class A @ Pebble Creek Golf Club, Becker

June 10, 12, 14 ............................................................................................... GIRLS’ LACROSSE TOURNAMENT – Chanhassen & Chaska High SchoolsJune 10, 12, 14 ............................................................................................... BOYS’ LACROSSE TOURNAMENT – Chanhassen & Chaska High SchoolsJune 12-14 ........................................................................................................................................... STATE BASEBALL TOURNAMENT - Class AAA @

Midway Stadium, St. Paul & Dick Siebert Field, U of M, Minneapolis (12-13); Class AA @ Dick Putz Field, St. Cloud & Joe Faber Field, St. Cloud (12-13);

Class A @ Athletic Park, Chaska & Mini Met, Jordan (12-13);Prep Championship Series, Target Field, Minneapolis (14)

June 14 ............................................................................................................ STATE CLAY TARGET TOURNAMENT – Minneapolis Gun Club, Prior Lake

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Minnesota State High School League2100 Freeway Boulevard Brooklyn Center MN 55430-1735 PHONE: 763/560-2262 FAX: 763/569-0499World Wide Web: www.MSHSL.org

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Mission StatementThe Minnesota State High School League provides educational opportunities

for students through interscholastic athletic and fine arts programs and provides leadership and support for member schools.

Beliefs◆ Participation in school activity programs is a

privilege and not a right.◆ Sportsmanship needs to have a constant presence

in all school-based activity programs.◆ Students should have an equal opportunity to

participate in all activities offered by their school.◆ Ethical behavior, dignity and respect are non-

negotiable.◆ Student participants who choose to be chemically

free must be supported.◆ Collaborative relationships with parents enhance a

school’s opportunity to positively impact studentsuccess.

◆ Academic priorities must come before participationin athletic or fine arts activities.

◆ Positive role models and an active involvement in astudent’s life by parents and others are critical tostudent success.

◆ High school activity programs are designed forstudent participants, and adults must serve in asupportive role.

◆ The success of the team is more important thanindividual honors.

◆ Compliance with school, community and Leaguerules is essential for all activity participants.

◆ Participation in school-sponsored activities must beinclusive, not exclusive.

◆ Ethical behavior, fairness, and embracing diversitybest serve students and school communities.


Spring 2014 Bulletin

Documents

assistant ellen rajkowski

director of information

mshsl bulletin

spring andis

aadan johnson

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