Contact: Corby Kemmer, director of development, 218-281-8432 (ckemmer@umn.edu); Mitch Bakken, director, sports information, 218-281-8414 (bakke044@umn.edu)

The Jim LeClair Practice Field was dedicated on Friday, August 28, 2009, at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. In the photo are (l to r) Shannon Stassen, head football coach; Chancellor Charles H. Casey; Stephanie Helgeson, athletic director, Jim LeClair, and Corby Kemmer, director of development and alumni relations.

 LeClair, ex. '70, was captain of the 1969 football team at the U of M, Crookston. He was named for two consecutive years to the Minnesota State Junior College All-Conference Team. In 1970 he transferred to the University of North Dakota (UND), where he played two more seasons of collegiate football. In 1972, LeClair was drafted by the National Football League's Cincinnati Bengals where he played twelve seasons. He finished his fourteen-year career with the New Jersey Generals of the United States Football League. In 1999, Le Clair was inducted into the National College Football Hall of Fame, South Bend, Indiana.

For more photos, visit the photo gallery.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu. 

Contact: Mitch Bakken- Sports Information Director (218) 281-8414

(Big Rapids, Mich.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston women's volleyball team finished the 2009 Ferris State University invite with matches against the University of Indianapolis and tournament host Ferris State. The Golden Eagles fell in both of Saturday's matches and finished the invite with a 1-3 record.
 
(UMC vs. UIndy)- The Golden Eagles opened play at 9:30 a.m. against the Greyhounds. After falling in the first two sets, 25-15, 25-18, U of M, Crookston rallied in the third set 25-23 to extend the match. The fourth set was all UIndy as the team attacked at a .476 (10K-0E-21TA) clip to take the match 3-1. Leading the way for the Golden Eagles was Amanda Swann (OH, 6-0, FR, Rochester, Mich.) who finished the match with 11 kills and a .241 (11K-4E-29TA) attack percentage. Shannon Cologna (S, 5-6, JR, Peoria, Ariz.) assisted on 35 of the team's 41 total kills. In the third set, the Golden Eagles recorded a .238 (15K-5E-42TA) attack percentage while holding the Greyhounds to a .111 (12K-8E-36TA) team attack percentage.
 
UIndy was led by Cheneta Morrison's 13 kills and .545 (13K-1E-22TA) attack percentage. Morrison also led her team with 31 assists and was a part of 44 or her team's 48 total kills. Defensively, Kyleigh Turner led all players with 18 defensive digs in the match.
 
(UMC vs. Ferris State)- The Golden Eagles closed out the Ferris State Invite with the host team. Behind a home crowd of 450, the Bulldogs defeated U of M, Crookston 3-0 (25-20, 25-17, 25-22). The Ferris State defense held the Golden Eagles to just 27 total kills in the match and a .060 (27K-22E-83TA) team attack percentage. Amber Meyer (OH, 6-2, JR, Paxton, Neb.) returned to the top of the Golden Eagle offense with a match high nine kills. Cologna added 23 assists and Jaclyn Slepicka (LIB, 5-2, SR, Crystal Lake, Ill.) tied a match high with 10 defensive digs.
 
The Bulldogs were led by a trio of top attackers. Arielle Goodson, Ashley Huntey and Sarah Lark all finished the match with eight kills for the match. Samantha Fordyce led all setters with 34 assists while Lisa Tobiczyk tied Slepicka's effort with 10 defensive digs.
 
The Golden Eagles are now 1-3 on the season. U of M, Crookston travels to the University of Findlay on September 4-5 for the University of Findlay Classic. The team opens play against Lake Superior State University at noon on September 4.
 
For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at: www.goldeneaglesports.com. 
 
The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). 

Contact: Mitch Bakken- Sports Information Director (218) 281-8414

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston football team opened the 2009 Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) season at home against the Southwest Minnesota State University Mustangs. The Golden Eagle defense saw three interceptions, two possibly returned for touchdowns, slip through their hands and turn into 17 Mustang points. The 31 point swing sparked SMSU onto a 48-10 NSIC victory.
 
The Mustangs opened the game with an eight play, 43-yard drive that set up a Lance Schuveiller 34-yard field goal. Gannon Moore added to the first quarter lead with a five yard touchdown run. In the second quarter, Ryan Ratekin hit Blake Wilson for a 10-yard touchdown strike to put the Mustangs up 17-0. Following a Schuveiller 31-yard field goal, SMSU stuck a dagger in the hearts of the Golden Eagles when Blake Wilson, with a UMC defender in his facemask, broke the tackle and scampered 80-yards for an SMSU punt return touchdown. The return set a new Mustang record for longest punt return in school history. Ratekin hooked up with Bret Ballantine with four seconds left in the half for an eight yard touchdown to put SMSU up 34-0 at the break. The Golden Eagles struck first in the second half when Chris Secrest (K, 5-11, 170, FR, Hollywood, Fla.) nailed a 31-yard field goal to cap off a 13 play, 54-yard Golden Eagle drive. SMSU would score two more times in the third quarter with Moore rushing for a two yard score followed by a Ratekin touchdown pass to Derek Townsend. The Golden Eagles closed out the scoring on a Brett Rice (RB, 5-10, 175, FR, Poynette, Wis.) two yard touchdown rush.
 
The Golden Eagles were led by Antonio Williams (WR, 6-2, 215, JR, West Palm Beach, Fla.) who caught six passes for 89-yards. Quarterback Tim Ennis (QB, 6-2, 205, JR, Lancaster, Calif.) completed 12 passes on 30 attempts for 160 yards. Keith McBride (RB, 5-11, 195, FR, Lodi, Wis.) closed out the top Golden Eagle offensive players with 18 rushes for 49 yards with a long rush of 12 yards. Defensively, Kyle Myers (LB, 5-10, 255, SR, Palmyra, N.J.) led all players with 10 total tackles (2 unassisted, 8 assisted). Broderick Williams (DB, 5-9, 200, SO, Minneapolis, Minn.) played tough in the secondary making six tackles, recording 1.5 tackles for a loss of nine yards, breaking up one pass and earning one sack. U of M, Crookston won the time of possession battle holding the ball for 32:32 to SMSU's 26:30. For the game, the Golden Eagles ran 63 plays and recorded 228 yards of total offensve.
 
The Mustangs were led by quarterback Ryan Ratekin who completed 16 passes on 26 attempts for 201 yards and three touchdowns. Zach Wysong got the call at the runningback position as he carried the ball 12 times for 99-yards with a long of 24-yards and an average of 8.2 yards/carry. Wade McDonough was Ratekin's primary target grabbing five passes for 44-yards. As a team, the Mustangs recorded 60 plays for 370 total yards of offense.
 
The Golden Eagles are 0-1 overall and 0-1 in the NSIC, while the Mustangs advance to 1-0 overall and 1-0 in conference play. The Golden Eagles travel to Mayville State University on Thursday, September 3 to play the Comets in non-conference action. Kick-off is set for 7 p.m.
 
For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at: www.goldeneaglesports.com. 
 
The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). 

Contact: Mitch Bakken- Sports Information Director (218) 281-8414

(Big Rapids, Mich.)- The Golden Eagles of the University of Minnesota, Crookston did battle this afternoon with the Screaming Eagles of the University of Southern Indiana. Although it was the first match of the season for USI, the Screaming Eagles attacked at a solid .267 (63K-23E-150TA) clip to take the 3-1 (25-22, 16-25, 11-25, 24-26) victory.

 Amber Meyer (OH, 6-2, JR, Paxton, Neb.) led the Golden Eagles offensively for the second consecutive match. She knocked down 12 kills and added two block assists. Ashley Allen (OH, 5-11, SR, Buffalo, Minn.) added 11 kills, three service aces and 10 defensive digs. Shannon Cologna (S, 5-6, JR, Peoria, Ariz.) assisted on 28 of the 37 Golden Eagle kills and played strong defensively with nine digs. Jaclyn Slepicka (LIB, 5-2, SR, Crystal Lake, Ill.) led the Golden Eagle defensively with 13 defensive digs. Amanda Swann (OH, 6-0, FR, Rochester, Mich.) tied a match high with four block assists for the U of M, Crookston.

The Screaming Eagles were led by Brittani Oliver who recorded a match high 24 kills on a .373 (24K-5E-51TA) attack percentage. Setter Melanie Pund led all setters with 51 assists and 14 digs. Defensive specialist Krista Coccaro dug 17 Golden Eagle attacks to lead all defenders in the match.

The Golden Eagles are 1-1 on the season while the University of Southern Indiana opens the season 1-0. On Saturday, August 29, U of M, Crookston will play the University of Indianapolis at 9:30 a.m. and Ferris State University at 2:30 p.m. Live stats will be available for the Ferris State match at http://livestats.prestosports.com/ferrisstate/.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at: www.goldeneaglesports.com. 

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

Contact: Mitch Bakken- Sports Information Director (218) 281-8414

(Big Rapids, Mich.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston women's volleyball team traveled to Big Rapids, Mich. this weekend for the Ferris State University Invite. The Golden Eagles opened play today at 11 a.m. with a match against St. Joseph's College of Rensselaer, Ind. Veteran play helped lead the Golden Eagles to a 3-1 (25-14, 15-25, 25-21, 25-17) victory over the Pumas.

Amber Meyer (OH, 6-2, JR, Paxton, Neb.) picked up where she left off last season as the offensive team leader for U of M, Crookston. Meyer finished the match with 13 kills to lead all players. In addition to her strong attacking, she tallied three service aces and three block assists. Ashley Allen (OH, 5-11, SR, Buffalo, Minn.) followed Meyer with 11 kills on 32 attempts. She too recorded three service aces. Newcomer Alyssa Krikke (MH, 6-0, JR, Grand Rapids, Mich.) added 10 kills and led all players with a .529 (10K-1E-17TA) attack percentage. Krikke also led all players in block assists with six. Dishing the ball in the match was Shannon Cologna (S, 5-6, JR, Peoria, Ariz.) who tallied 39 assists to lead all setters. Defensively, Jaclyn Slepicka (LIB, 5-2, SR, Crystal Lake, Ill.) and Danielle Rueter (OH, 5-9, SO, Burlington, Wis.) led the Golden Eagles with 14 defensive digs each.

Leading the way for the Puma's was Sharon Freund who recorded 11 kills. Leah Zehme earned 20 assists while Linsey House came up big defensively with 18 digs to lead all players.

The Golden Eagles are 1-0 on the season. St. Joseph's College drops to 0-2. The team returns to the court at 2 p.m. to take on the University of Southern Indiana. On Saturday, August 29, U of M, Crookston will play the University of Indianapolis at 9:30 a.m. and Ferris State University at 2:30 p.m. Live stats will be available for the Ferris State match at http://livestats.prestosports.com/ferrisstate/.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at: www.goldeneaglesports.com.  

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

Contact: Chris Vito - Assistant Sports Information Director - (218)281-8445

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Baseball program welcomes 15 new players to the squad for this coming season.

Third-year head coach Chris Vito expects that this class will add needed depth for the Golden Eagles. "Our goal has always been to be at least two-deep at every defensive spot," says Coach Vito. "We are finally starting to get there with roster numbers near 30. I am excited about the potential this class brings to our program."

Included in the class are 12 freshmen and three transfers. Eight of the new U of M, Crookston players will see time on the mound. Here is a rundown of this year's class.

Josh Althaus (6'1", 220, Fr, 1B, St. Cloud, Minn.- St. Cloud Apollo H.S.)

Althaus is a 6'1", 220 lb first baseman from St. Cloud Apollo High School of the Central Lakes Conference. He was named all-conference. Josh played in the 2009 Minnesota American Legion State Baseball Tournament for the District Six Champions Waite Park Silver Stars. He is the son of Martin and Janet Althaus of St. Cloud, Minn. and his major at the University of Minnesota, Crookston is undeclared.

David Grabowski (6'0", 195, Jr, C/OF, Virginia, Minn. - Mesabi Range Community and Technical College)

Grabowski is a 6'0", 195 lb catcher/outfielder who has transferred from Mesabi Range Community and Technical College in Virginia, Minn. He graduated from Virginia High School where he was his team's captain and Offensive Player of the Year. A member of the Blue Devil Football squad, David served as team captain, was awarded the Blue Pride Award and also was Offensive Player of the Year. He is the son of Scott and Susan Grabowski of Virginia, Minn. and is majoring in Criminal Justice at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Justin Haakenson (6'2", 175, Fr, RHP, St. Cloud, Minn. - St. Cloud Apollo H.S.)

Haakenson is a 6'2", 175 lb right-handed pitcher from St. Cloud Apollo High School of the Central Lakes Conference. He lettered in both baseball and hockey. Justin was all-conference and all-state honorable mention in baseball. He played in the 2009 Minnesota American Legion State Tournament for the District Six Champions Waite Park Silver Stars. Justin is the son of Mike and Terri Haakenson of St. Cloud, Minn. and is majoring in computer software technology at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Bill Hirschi (6'0", 175, Fr, RHP/OF, Coon Rapids, Minn.- Coon Rapids H.S.)

Hirschi is a 6'0", 176 lb right-handed pitcher/first baseman/outfielder from Coon Rapids High School of the Northwest Suburban Conference. He is the son of Scott and Lori Hirschi of Coon Rapids, Minn. Bill is majoring in psychology at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Brandon Johnson (6'1", 210, Fr, RHP, Detroit Lakes, Minn. -Detroit Lakes H.S.)

Johnson is a 6'1", 210 lb right-handed pitcher from Detroit Lakes High School of the Mid-State Conference. He participated in soccer, wrestling and baseball for the Lakers winning three letters in wrestling and two in soccer and baseball. Brandon was a section champion in wrestling and also earned all-conference and all-state honors. He led the baseball team in homeruns as a senior. Brandon is the son of Bruce and Sharon Wall of Detroit Lakes, Minn. and is majoring in communication at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Jake Johnson (6'4", 215, Fr, RHP Stanchfield, Minn. - Braham H.S.)

Johnson is a 6'4", 200 lb right-handed pitcher from Braham High School of the Great River Conference. He was named his team's rookie of the year as a sophomore and earned all-conference honors as well as Team MVP and Team Batting Title honors as a senior. Jake is the son of Scott and Barb Johnson of Stanchfield, Minn. He is majoring in natural resources law enforcement at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Joshua Kraby (5'10", 175, Fr, 3B, Glencoe, Minn. - Glencoe-Silver Lake H.S.)

Kraby is a 5'10", 175 lb. third baseman from Glencoe-Silver Lake High School of the Wright County Conference. He was a member of their 2009 Section 2AA Championship team that competed at the Minnesota State AA Baseball Tournament. Josh is the son of Donald and Audra Kraby of Glencoe, Minn. He is majoring in sport and recreation management at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Matthew Lyons (6'3", 200, Fr, RHP, Nipawin, Sask. - L.P. Miller H.S.)

Lyons is a 6'3", 200 lb right-handed pitcher from Nipawin, Saskatchewan, Canada. He competed at the Western Canada Summer Games for Team Saskatchewan this past summer and has been to two Western Canadian Championships and two national championships for Team Saskatchewan. Matthew was also named Pitcher of the Tournament at the Gillette, Wyoming American Legion Invitational. He is the son of Barry and Sharon Lyons of Nipawin, Saskatchewan, Canada and is majoring in health sciences (pre-professional) - pre-physical therapy at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Fritz Moos (5'9", 185, Fr, C, White Bear Lake, Minn. - St. Agnes H.S.)

Moos is a 5'9", 179 lb catcher from St. Agnes High School of the Tri-Metro Conference. He served as team captain his senior year and was a two-time all-conference honorable mention performer in both baseball and football. Fritz is the son of Gary and Cathy Moos of White Bear Lake, Minn. He is majoring in biology at the University of Minnesota, Crookston. His father Gary was a member of U of M, Crookston's 1982 Midwest Bowl Football team.

Reed Oistad (5'10", 180, SS/3B, Detroit Lakes, Minn. - Detroit Lakes H.S.)

Oistad is a 5'10", 180 1b shortstop/third baseman from Detroit Lakes High School of the Mid-State Conference. He was a two-time all-conference performer in baseball and basketball and was also all-conference in football. He was his Team MVP in football, basketball and baseball. Reed is the son of Marlo and Barb Oistad of Detroit Lakes, Minn. He is majoring in business management at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Tim Parks (6'2", 185, RHP, Baltimore, Mar. - Baltimore Lutheran H.S.)

Parks is a 6'2", 185 lb right-handed pitcher from Baltimore Lutheran High School of the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association B Conference. He was named all-conference in 2009. Tim is the son of Douglas and Sandra Parks of Baltimore, Mar. He is majoring in aviation at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Ryan Pauly (5'6", 166, Utility, Osseo, Minn. - Central Lakes College)

Pauly is a 5'6", 166 lb utility player who has transferred in from Central Lakes College in Brainerd, Minn. He graduated from Osseo High School of the Northwest Suburban Conference where he served as team captain his senior year and was also named all-conference honorable mention. At Central Lakes College, Ryan also served as team captain and was named to the All-Central Division Team. He is the son of Kevin and Sharon Pauly of Osseo, Minn. and is majoring in natural resources law enforcement at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Nick Smestad (6'0", 165, RHP, Fordville, N.D. - Fordville-Lankin H.S.)

Smestad is a 6'0", 165 lb right-handed pitcher from Fordville-Lankin High School of Region 4. He won awards for having his team's best earned run average, best record and most wins as a pitcher. Nick was also named Team MVP and was a two-time All-Region 4 performer. He is the son of Jeff and Jeanie Smestad of Fordville, N.D. Nick is majoring in agronomy at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Jay Stevens (5'11", 168, 1B, Delano, Minn. - Delano H.S.)

Stevens is a 5'11", 168 lb., first baseman from Delano High School of the Wright County Conference. He served as his team's captain for two years and was also named all-conference. Jay is the son of Jon and Brenda Stevens of Delano, Minn. He is majoring in criminal justice at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Nick Zawacki (5'6", 155, RHP, Howell, Mich. - Siena Heights University)

Zawacki is a 5'6", 155lb right-handed pitcher who has transferred from Siena Heights University in Adrian, Mich. Nick graduated from Howell high School in Howell, Mich. He was named to the All-Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference Academic Team in 2009 and was also a Boise Summer League All-Star for the Hampton (Idaho) Owls. Nick is the son of Terry and Geri Zawacki of Howell, Mich. He is majoring in business management at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics Web site at http://www.goldeneaglesports.com/.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

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Contact: Mitch Bakken- Sports Information Director (218) 281-8414

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Athletic Department kicked off the NCAA CHAMPS/Life Skills Program in Lysaker Gymnasium on Wednesday, August 26. The U of M, Crookston is one of 34 institutions that have been selected to participate in the program during the 2009-10 year.

The program is offered to incoming freshmen and transfer students. It is held every Wednesday at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. through December 9. Topics covered include, time management, study skills, sportsmanship, nutrition, community engagement projects, stress management, etc.

U of M, Crookston Assistant Athletic Director/Senior Woman Administrator Natasha Kuhle attended the 2009 NCAA CHAMPS/Life Skills Orientation Conference held on February 8-10, 2009 in Indianapolis, Ind.
The NCAA CHAMPS/Life Skills Program is coordinated on 627 campuses and conference offices nationwide. It was created to support the student-athlete development initiatives of NCAA member institutions and to enhance the quality of the student-athlete experience within the context of higher education.

In the process of achieving this mission, the CHAMPS/Life Skills Program will:
•  Promote student-athletes' ownership of their academic, athletic, career, personal and community responsibilities.     
•  Meet the changing needs of student-athletes.            
•  Promote respect for diversity and inclusion among student-athletes.            
•  Assist student-athletes in identifying and applying transferable skills.            
•  Enhance partnerships between the NCAA, member institutions and their communities for the purpose of education.     
•  Foster an environment that encourages student-athletes to effectively access campus resources.             
•  Encourage the development of character, integrity and leadership skills.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics Web site at www.goldeneaglesports.com.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

Photo: Golden Eagle student-athletes try to untangle themselves from the human knot, a game used to build teamwork and communication.

Contact: Mitch Bakken- Sports Information Director (218) 281-8414

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Softball program will start its fall season on Monday, August 31. The team will have two weeks of practice before traveling to Grand Forks on Sunday, September 13 to play Valley City State University and the University of North Dakota. First pitch is scheduled for noon against VCSU and 4 p.m. against UND at Apollo Field. On Sunday, September 27 the team will host Bemidji State University in a 100-inning fundraiser at the UMC Softball Field. The game begins at 10 a.m. and the public is invited to come out and take part in the event.
 
The Golden Eagles return five players from the 2009 season. The team welcomes two transfers and six freshmen to the 2010 squad with the possibility of adding a couple more at semester break. 
 
"We won't have a senior this season and with eight new players we are going to be extremely young both in age and experience at the DII level," says Head Coach Mitch Bakken. "With that being said, many of the players played club, summer or junior college softball and are now ready to take on this new challenge."
 
The Golden Eagles open the 2010 regular season in February and open NSIC Conference play on April 2 & 3 when the team hosts Augustana College and Wayne State College at the UMC Softball Field. First pitch against Augustana is set for 1 p.m. while a noon start is scheduled for the Wayne State Contest.
 
For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at www.goldeneaglesports.com.
 
The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

Contact: Chris Vito - Assistant Sports Information Director - (218)281-8445

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Women's Soccer team will open the 2009 season on Tuesday, September 1 when they travel to Jamestown, N.D. for a non-conference match-up against Jamestown College. Action will start at 5 p.m.

Richard Jones begins his first season as head coach of the Golden Eagles. U of M, Crookston finished the 2008 season with an overall record of 3-16-1 and Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) record of 2-11-0. They return seven letter winners from last year's squad including Justine Jones (Sr, Fwd, Richland, Wash.) who led the team in scoring and points last year with eight goals and two assists for 18 points. Jones was also named NSIC Soccer All-Conference Third Team.

Golden Eagles @ Jamestown College  Tuesday, September 1  5 p.m.

The Jimmies finished the 2008 season with an overall record of 1-14-2. They tied the Golden Eagles 2-2 in Crookston and defeated them 2-1 in Jamestown.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics Web site at http://www.goldeneaglesports.com/.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

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Contact: Chris Vito - Assistant Sports Information Director - (218)281-8445

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Baseball program will start its fall season on Monday, August 31. The Golden Eagles will practice from 3:30-6:30 pm at Jim Karn Field in Crookston, Minn.

NCAA Division II schools are allowed 24 days to work-out in the fall. U of M, Crookston will end fall ball on Monday, October 5. The 24 days will consist of a "Maroon and Gold" World Series. The Golden Eagles will be split into two squads and play a best of seven series.

U of M, Crookston Head Baseball Coach Chris Vito enters his third season at the helm and is ready to get the fall started. "I cannot wait to get our fall season underway," says Vito. "We took some nice steps forward last season with victories over St. Cloud State and Southwest Minnesota State. We were also more competitive."

The Golden Eagles will have 28 players on their fall roster and hope to add an additional player at the semester break. To Coach Vito's knowledge, it will be a school record for roster size.

"We have wanted to build our roster into the thirties," says Coach Vito. "More numbers means more competition. I see us being two to three deep at every defensive spot which is definite change for us. We return 13 players from last year's squad and add 15 newcomers. We are going to be young with only five seniors and 21 freshmen and sophomores. However, I expect that our upperclassmen will provide the leadership we need and that our younger players will supply added energy and enthusiasm. It is going to be a fun fall."

The Golden Eagles finished the 2009 season with an overall record of 7-42 and Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) record of 3-29. They will open the 2009 season with six games at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minn. February 5 and 28 will see U of M, Crookston facing NSIC foes Bemidji State University and Northern State University in non-conference doubleheaders. Times have yet to be determined. A third non-conference doubleheader at the Metrodome has yet to be scheduled. Following those games, the Golden Eagles will travel to Winterhaven, Fla. for eight games at the RussMatt Invitational (March 12-17). They open NSIC play on March 19-20 when they travel to the Metrodome for a four-game series against St. Cloud State University. U of M, Crookston will be the home team.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics Web site at http://www.goldeneaglesports.com/.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

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Contact: Mitch Bakken- Sports Information Director (218) 281-8414

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Athletic Department will recognize the recipients of the 2009 Ed Widseth and Agassiz Bowl Scholarships on Saturday, August 29 at a breakfast and at half-time of the U of M, Crookston and Southwest Minnesota State University football game. The breakfast will be held at 9:30 a.m. in Bede Ballroom followed by kickoff at 1 p.m. at Ed Widseth Field.

The Ed Widseth Scholarship recognizes those qualities epitomized by Ed Widseth - outstanding athletic, leadership and academic achievements.  A scholarship of $1,500 is awarded, with preference, to an incoming freshman or a college transfer football player and is renewable for up to four years.  A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required to receive this distinguished award.

Ed Widseth, a Gonvick, Minn., native began his football career here in the fall of 1929 at the Northwest School of Agriculture graduating in 1932. He went on to star for the Minnesota Gophers and was a Co-Captain of the 1936 National Championship Team. Widseth was actually a candidate for the Heisman Award and was on Lindy's All-Century Team for Defensive Line. He was the first player drafted by the New York Giants in 1937, played five years in the National Football League (NFL), and was the NFL MVP in 1938. A member of the National Collegiate Hall of Fame, Widseth also was selected in 1991 as a charter member of the Gopher's Men's Sports Hall of Fame and as one of the 20 greatest Gopher athletes ever. The 2009 award winners are Mark Mitteness (Ada, Minn.), Peyton Kujava (Ada, Minn.), Keith McBride (Lodi, Wis.), Mike Johnson (Center City, Minn.) and Brett Rice (Poynette, Wis.) For more information about the Ed Widseth Scholarship Endowment Fund, contact Corby Kemmer (Director of Development & Alumni Relations) at (218) 281-8434 or Dan Svedarsky at (218) 281-8129.

The Crookston Chamber Agassiz Bowl Scholarship is a $500 scholarship presented to a student-athlete preferably from the local area. The Crookston Chamber Agribusiness sponsors this scholarship and is working hard to promote agriculture and strengthen the very important relationship with the University of Minnesota, Crookston. The 2009 recipient of the Crookston Chamber Agassiz Bowl Scholarship is Mark Mitteness.

To receive information on how to attend the scholarship breakfast, contact Natasha Kuhle at (218)-281-8423.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at www.goldeneaglesports.com.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

Contact: Mitch Bakken- Sports Information Director (218) 281-8414

(Crookston, Minn.)- Everyone is invited to attend the 1st Annual 5k Golden Eagle Run/Walk, Saturday August 29th, 2009 on the University of Minnesota, Crookston campus. The event will begin at 10:00 am, with registration beginning at 9:00 am. Participants may retrieve a registration form online at goldeneaglesports.com or at the UMC Athletic Department. There is no pre-registration required, participants may come out on August 29th and run and the event is FREE to all participants. The first 200 participants will receive a FREE water bottle. Everyone who runs in this event will be entered for prize give-aways at half-time of the UMC Golden Eagle Football game on Saturday, August 29th. The prizes range from an iPod to apparel to gift certificates. All participants in the 5k Golden Eagle Run/Walk will be admitted into the UMC football game that day free of charge.

The 5k Golden Eagle Run/Walk is sponsored by the NCAA CHOICES grant and a kick-off to the 2009-2010 Golden Eagle athletic season. There will be many events to follow the run on Saturday. There will be a UMC Teambackers tailgate with "Four Wheel Drive" playing until kick-off of the UMC Football game against Southwest Minnesota State University at 1 pm at Ed Widseth Field. Come out to cheer on your Golden Eagles!

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics Web site at www.goldeneaglesports.com.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). 

Contact: Corby Kemmer, director of development, 218-281-8432 (ckemmer@umn.edu); Mitch Bakken, sports information director, 218-281-8414 (bakke044@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  - The football practice field at the University of Minnesota, Crookston will be named in honor of Alumnus James "Jim" LeClair on Friday, August 28, 2009. The dedication will begin at noon on the field and the public is invited to attend. The Jim LeClair Practice Field is located just east of Evergreen Hall, the new residence hall on the Crookston campus.

LeClair, ex. '70, enrolled at the U of M, Crookston in the fall of 1968, and as a student-athlete, he excelled in football. He was captain of the 1969 football team that finished second in the conference and was named for a second consecutive year to the Minnesota State Junior College All-Conference Team. In 1970 he transferred to the University of North Dakota (UND), where he played two more seasons of collegiate football.
 
In 1972, LeClair was drafted by the National Football League's Cincinnati Bengals where he played twelve seasons. He finished his fourteen-year career with the New Jersey Generals of the United States Football League.  Following his professional football career LeClair has been a successful coach, businessman, entrepreneur, and civic leader.  In 1999, Le Clair was inducted into the National College Football Hall of Fame, South Bend, Indiana.  He was inducted into the UND Athletic Hall of Fame in 1985 and into the U of M, Crookston Athletic Hall of Fame in 1999.

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.
 

Contact: Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising, 218-281-8436 (btyrrell@umn.edu); Mitch Bakken, sports information director, 218-281-8414 (bakke044@umn.edu)

Crookston, Minn.  - Support from businesses in the region has provided new athletic scoreboards at the University of Minnesota, Crookston, home of the Golden Eagles. The athletic department is pleased to announce that sponsors have helped secure the necessary funding to install new scoreboards at Ed Widseth Field, in Lysaker Gymnasium, and at the softball and baseball fields on the Crookston campus.

Northwest Manufacturing, Inc. of Red Lake Falls, Minn., is being recognized for their signature sponsorship of the scoreboard project. Chuck Gagner is president of Northwest Manufacturing, the company responsible for manufacturing and distribution of WoodMaster furnaces.

Joining Northwest Manufacturing are premier sponsors of the project: Bremer Bank in Crookston, Rob Jacobson, president; Hugo's, Kristi Magnusson, president; RiverView Health, Deb Boardman, CEO; and Crookston McDonald's, Mike and Cindy O'Keefe, owners.

"More than $100,000 was raised for the scoreboards, and we are grateful to everyone who contributed to the project," states Stephanie Helgeson, athletic director at the U of M, Crookston. "The support we have received for the scoreboards will enhance the experience for both student-athletes and fans, and it would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors."

Under the leadership of Bill Tyrrell, director of athletic fundraising, the Crookston campus supports student-athletes through scholarships and projects that enhance the student experience. To learn more about how you can support student-athletes at the U of M, Crookston, contact Tyrrell at 281-281-8436 (btyrrell@umn.edu)

Today the University of Minnesota, Crookston delivers more than 25 applied-science undergraduate degree programs and 50 concentrations, including several online degrees, in agriculture; arts, humanities and social sciences; business; math, science and technology; and natural resources. To learn more, visit www.UMCrookston.edu.

Contact: Mitch Bakken- Sports Information Director (218) 281-8414

(Crookston, Minn.)- University of Minnesota, Crookston Athletic Director Stephanie Helgeson and Director of Athletic Fundraising Bill Tyrrell announced today that Crookston Pontiac-Buick-GMC, in conjunction with the "Golden Eagles on Wheels" program will donate a car for Golden Eagle athletic coaches to use during the recruiting season. This type of sponsorship is vital to the overall success of a growing NCAA II athletic program as the vehicles are used by coaches during their peak recruiting seasons and can save the athletic budget up to $5,000 annually.

"Our partnership with Crookston Pontiac-Buick-GMC and their willingness to contribute a vehicle is essential to our athletic programs," says Helgeson. "Their generosity helps our recruiting budgets and all of the Golden Eagle coaches feel very fortunate for the contribution."

(Photo L-R)- Jim Warmack (General Manager), Stephanie Helgeson (Director of Athletics), Scott Oertwich (Sales Consultant), Bill Tyrrell (Director of Athletic Fundraising).

The University of Minnesota, Crookston would like to thank Crookston Pontiac-Buick-GMC for their continued support of Golden Eagle athletics.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics Web site at www.goldeneaglesports.com.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

Contact: Mitch Bakken- Sports Information Director (218) 281-8414

(Crookston, Minn.)- University of Minnesota, Crookston Athletic Director Stephanie Helgeson and Director of Athletic Fundraising Bill Tyrrell announced today that Crookston Pontiac-Buick-GMC, in conjunction with the "Golden Eagles on Wheels" program will donate a car for Golden Eagle athletic coaches to use during the recruiting season. This type of sponsorship is vital to the overall success of a growing NCAA II athletic program as the vehicles are used by coaches during their peak recruiting seasons and can save the athletic budget up to $5,000 annually.

"Our partnership with Crookston Pontiac-Buick-GMC and their willingness to contribute a vehicle is essential to our athletic programs," says Helgeson. "Their generosity helps our recruiting budgets and all of the Golden Eagle coaches feel very fortunate for the contribution."

(Photo L-R)- Jim Warmack (General Manager), Stephanie Helgeson (Director of Athletics), Scott Oertwich (Sales Consultant), Bill Tyrrell (Director of Athletic Fundraising).

The University of Minnesota, Crookston would like to thank Crookston Pontiac-Buick-GMC for their continued support of Golden Eagle athletics.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics Web site at www.goldeneaglesports.com.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

Contact: Chris Vito - Assistant Sports Information Director - (218)281-8445

(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston Athletic Department held its Ninth Annual Women's Golf Tournament on Tuesday, August 11 at the Minakwa Golf Course in Crookston, Minn. The tournament benefits women's athletic scholarships at the university.

Fourteen teams and a total of 59 participants took part in the successful, nine-hole event which started after remarks from University of Minnesota, Crookston Chancellor Dr. Charles H. Casey and Athletic Director Stephanie Helgeson.

"We had a wonderful turnout for our ninth annual women's golf event," says U of M, Crookston Athletic Director Stephanie Helgeson. "We are very fortunate to have a great group of community women that participate every year along with some additional new faces.  The funds raised go to our women's athletic scholarship fund so we are very grateful for the participation along with the sponsorships and donations to this tournament."

Awards were handed out for the first, second and third place teams as well as the longest putt, longest drive and closest to the line.

First Place - Jodi Dragseth, Shellie Fischer, Tricia Sanders, Jen Nelson

Second Place - Steph Helgeson, Renee Tangquist, Kari Bratner, Brandi Chaffee, Carol Chaffee

Third Place - Krista Proulx, Karen Murphy, Carol Royal, Colleen Blake

Longest Putt - June Berhow

Longest Drive - Molly Ingeman

Closest to the Line - Kathryn Jacobson

The University of Minnesota, Crookston Athletic Department would like to thank the Minakwa Golf Course of Crookston, Minn. for all of its help. They would also like to thank the following individuals and sponsors for donating gifts as well as all hole sponsors.

Prize Sponsors

All Seasons Lube
Arby's
Duffers Sports Bar
Golden Gopher Athletics
Happy Joe's
Hardware Hank
Joyce Beattie - Mary Kay Cosmetics
Lakeview
Limited Edition (River View)
Minakwa Golf Course
Movie Gallery
Munn's Jewelry
My Beading Heart - Lori Wagner
Nancie Hoerner
Natural Look
Ness Café - Erskine, MN
North Country Business Products
Northland Inn
Odland, Fitzgerald, Reynolds & Harbott
RBJ's
River View Health Care
Sherry Just
Studio 108
Taco John's
TLC (T Durbin & Tiffany Fee)
UMC Admissions
UMC Bookstore
UMC Development & Alumni Relations
UMC Teambackers
Widman's
Willow & Ivy

Hole Sponsors

Chuck Larson
Marv Bachmeier
Schulz Carpeting
Hallmark Store, Dick Maves
Natural Look
AmericInn Hotel & Suites
Ness Café - Erskine, MN
Proulx Refrig., Heating & Appliance
Kari Odland
American Federal
Lifetime Vision Center (G.F.) Kari Torkelson
Corby Kemmer
Bill Tyrrell & Chuck Wilder
Brost Chevrolet
D & D Thomforde's Garden and Fresh Floral

 

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at http://goldeneaglesports.com.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

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Photo Caption

First Place - Front Row (L-R): Jodi Dragseth, Shellie Fischer, Tricia Sanders
                      Back Row: Jen Nelson

 

 

Contact: Chris Vito - Assistant Sports Information Director - (218)281-8445

(Crookston, Minn.) - The University of Minnesota, Crookston Women's Soccer team will begin workouts for the 2009 season on Monday, August 10 at the UMC Soccer Field. The Golden Eagles will practice twice daily with their first workout running from 8 - 10 a.m. and the second taking place from 4 - 6 p.m. Their preseason schedule will run with a schedule of three days on and one off.

New Head Coach Richard Jones is eager to get started. "I am excited for the girls to return to campus and for us to get the season underway," says Coach Jones.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston finished the 2008 season with an overall record of 3-16-1 and Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) record of 2-11-0. They return seven letter winners from last year's squad including Justine Jones (Sr, Fwd, Richland, Wash.) who led the team in scoring and points last year with eight goals and two assists for 18 points. Jones was also named NSIC Soccer All-Conference Third Team.

The Golden Eagles open the 2009 season on the road on September 1 with a non-conference match at Jamestown College. Action gets underway at 5 p.m. Their home opener takes place on September 8 when they play host to Bemidji State University in a non-conference game starting at 4 p.m. at the UMC Soccer Field.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics website at www.goldeneaglesports.com.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

 

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