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“We need to do better. Our community needs to hear these things. It starts the conversations that have to happen and the change that has to go with it.”

Brad Wendland wants you to do something, no matter who you are, where you live or where you work or go to school. Wendland, the head football coach at Waseca High School, knows he is lucky to be alive and he wants others to have the second chance he’s getting.

Roseau and Warroad are only 22 miles apart, within earshot of the Canadian border, and high school hockey is a binding agent, a cultural touchstone and darn near a religious experience.

“It was definitely different to wrestle other girls when I’ve been wrestling mostly boys all season. I’m not exactly the strongest girl around, but it’s been much more competitive wrestling a girl than wrestling a guy.”

Farmington first Victory Day celebration was an opportunity for cognitively and physically impaired children to play football or cheer and have their moment in the sun. It was spectacular.

Long road trips are standard for teams in northern Minnesota, especially those from large schools that need to pack a lunch -- and a dinner -- in order to travel to schools of similar size.

“It’s important to me to make sure it’s a big deal,” coach Dylan Boettcher said. “I’m hoping this can be a jump start for adapted sports in Mankato. I’ve fallen in love with the people involved in activities for special needs kids.”

Farmington Band Director Erin Holmes struck a high note when she was honored with the Schmitt Music Educator of the Year award. 

Proving that life comes with twists and turns, Jason DeRusha became coach of the debate and speech teams at Maple Grove High School.

“We were big rivals, like we almost couldn't stand each other. It's crazy how you can judge someone, then once you get to know them, they're just great people and you're having fun with it.”

Minnesota State High School League Board of Directors Member Amanda Kaus selected for position on NFHS Board of Directors.