KSFY News - Sioux Falls, SD News, Weather, SportsNSU Signs 39 for Football

Aberdeen, S.D. – Northern State head football coach Tom Dosch has announced the signing of 39 players to National Letters of Intent to enroll in classes and join the Wolves' football team for the 2012 season.  The signing class includes four transfer students, including three who have already enrolled in classes at NSU and will go through spring drills and practice with the Wolves. 

 "We are very excited about the new additions to the NSU football program," said Dosch of the group.  "The quality and quantity of this group is a direct reflection of the time and effort our coaching staff put into the recruiting process.  We have added players at every position on both sides of the ball, which is what we look to do with every recruiting class.  This added depth will create more competition within our team, which is good for the program.  In addition, we have signed several players who we look to come in and compete for immediate playing time."

 Dosch was also pleased with the quality of student-athlete in this year's class. 

 "Over half of this year's class received academic scholarships from NSU, which shows the commitment we have made to have the best student-athletes in our program," he said.

 A complete listing of players and brief bio information can be found below.

 Evan Aaron IV                        OL                 6-8                320             Plymouth, Minn./Robbinsdale Armstrong HS

A 2-year team captain for the Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons, Aaron was named as the team's most improved player as a junior under the tutelage of head coach Ryan Bartlett.  As a senior, Aaron went on to earn All-Northwest Suburban Conference honors and was honorable mention all-metro and all-state selection.  He was also a nominee for the NWSC Offensive Lineman of the Year award.  Aaron also played basketball for the Falcons.

 Coach Dosch on Aaron: "Evan is a big physical lineman who performed at a high level against good competition.  His great size potential gives him the chance to excel at the college level."

 Jake Adam                              OL                 6-7                265             Thompson, N.D./Thompson HS

A 3-sport standout for the Thompson High School Tommies, Adam comes to the Wolves after earning honorable mention all-conference honors as a senior.  During his junior year, he helped lead his team to a 10-2 record and the semifinals of the North Dakota State 9-man playoffs.  He was named as the Player of the Game in two out of the three playoff games that season.  Adam was also an all-conference honoree in basketball as a junior, leading the Tommies to the district playoffs.  He also played two seasons of baseball of the Tommies.  Off the field, Adam served as a volunteer youth baseball and basketball official, while helping run Saturday morning youth football clinics with the varsity football squad.  He was also a member of the local 4-H club for four years.

 Coach Dosch on Adam: "Jacob is a big, athletic lineman from Thompson High School.  His huge frame will allow him to add the size and strength needed at the next level."

 Mike Anderson                    LB                 6-0                200             Sioux Falls, S.D./Roosevelt High School

Anderson will join the Northern squad after playing for Roosevelt High School under the direction of Kim Nelson.  Anderson was a 3-time letter winner, tallying 151 career tackles and two interceptions.  97 of those tackles came during his senior campaign as he helped lead the Rough Riders to an 11-1 record the South Dakota Class 11AA state title.  Anderson was tabbed to the All-Greater Dakota Conference and All-State squads for his efforts, and was also named as his team's Defensive MVP and Most Improved Player.

 Coach Dosch on Anderson: "Mike is an active, athletic linebacker who played a key role on Roosevelt's championship team.  He has a knack for being around the ball and he makes a lot of plays."

 Channing Barber                  DB                6-0                165             Dell Rapids, S.D./Dell Rapids High School

Barber is a 2011 Argus Leader Elite 45 pick, while earning All-State and All-Big Sioux Conference honors for his efforts in all facets of the game.  Barber, the Joe Robbie MVP of the 2011 state title game, tallied 48 tackles on defense while running for 914 yards and 12 touchdowns.  Like his twin brother, Zachery, who will also be joining the Wolves for the 2012 season, Channing Barber was an Honorable Mention Elite 45 selection in 2010.  Also a stand-out on the track, he teamed with Zachery Barber on the state champion 4x100-meter relay team at the 2010 state track and field championships.  Channing also placed third in the open 100-meter dash in both 2010 and 2011, while helping the DRHS basketball team to a third place finish in 2011.

 Coach Dosch on C. Barber: "Channing is a tremendous athlete who excelled at quarterback on Dell Rapids' state championship team.  His speed, athleticism and competitive edge will make him an excellent defensive back in college."

 Zachery Barber                     WR               5-10             165             Dell Rapids, S.D./Dell Rapids High School

A 2011 All-Big Sioux Conference, All-State and Argus Leader Elite 45 selection, Barber joins his twin brother Channing in committing to the Wolves' football squad for 2012.  Zachery Barber helped lead the Dell Rapids Quarriers to three state titles in 2008, 2010 and 2011.  Barber ran for more than 1,200 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2011, while averaging 22 yard per catch through the air.  He also earned honorable mention all-state and Elite 45 honors in 2010 and was the Joe Robbie MVP of the 2010 state championship game.  Also a stand-out on the track, he was a member of the Quarriers' 4x100-meter relay squad that won the state title in 2010 as part of the overall team title at the state meet.  Barber was also a member of the DRHS basketball team that finished third at the state tournament in 2011.

 Coach Dosch on Z. Barber: "Zachery is a difference-maker who excelled as a skill player in high school.  We are excited to have a player with his productivity in our program."

 Ty'Karius Brooks                  DB                5-9                160             Brooklyn Park, Minn./Park Center HS

Brooks, a 2-year starter and letter winner for the Park Center High School Pirates, tallied 67 tackles, five TFLs, 11 deflections and two blocked kicks en-route to Honorable Mention All-Northwest Suburban Conference honors this past fall.  He was also voted as the team captain in that campaign.  As a junior, Brooks notched 62 tackles, three for a loss, and four pass deflections.  Off the field, Brooks is active in volunteer work and plays the drums at church.

 Coach Dosch on Brooks: "Ty'Karius is a playmaker who excelled in the secondary.  He is a physical player against the run and excellent in pass coverage."

 Bobby Brown                         WR               6-3                195             Blaine, Minn./ Spring Lake Park High School

Brown comes to the Northern State football program after receiving two letters at Spring Lake Park High School under the direction of Jeff Schleiff.  During his junior season at with the Panthers, Brown had 20 receptions for 316 yards (15.5 yards per catch) and three touchdowns, earning Honorable Mention All-North Suburban Conference honors.  He earned the same honor in 2011 after catching 13 passes for 229 yards and three touchdowns.  The Panthers went 17-5 in his final two seasons, earning conference titles both years.  Brown is also an all-conference performer with the SLPHS track and field team, which earned the NSC conference title in 2010.

 Coach Dosch on Brown: "Bobby is a talented, explosive athlete.  His size and athleticism will make him a good receiver in our offense.  He is a versatile, all-around player and we are excited to have him in our program."

 *Jon Caspers                          OL                 6-6                290             Bird Island, Minn./Bold HS/Iowa State

Caspers comes to the Wolves following two seasons at North Dakota State College of Science and a redshirt season at Iowa State.  At NDSCS, Caspers was a two-year letter winner under head coach Chuck Parsons.  He was also a 2009 NJCAA honorable mention All-American and earned all-region and all-conference honors that season, as well, helping lead the Wildcats to an appearance in the 2009 Graphic Edge Bowl.  Caspers will have two seasons of eligibility remaining with the Wolves.

 Coach Dosch on Caspers: "Jon brings a physical presence to our program.  His experience at the collegiate level will be a great addition to our offensive line.  We expect him to compete for playing time immediately.

 Shelby Dillard                       LB                 6-0                230             Chandler, Ariz./Perry High School

Dillard is a 2-time all-region pick, earning honorable mention honors as a junior and first team accolades during his senior campaign with the Perry High School Pumas, who went 9-3 and earned a berth in the state playoffs that season under head coach Preston Jones.  Dillard was also a state qualifier in track and field, making the trip to the state meet with his PHS 4x400-meter relay squad and in the shot put.  Off the field, he participated in community service projects with his PHS football teammates.

 Coach Dosch on Dillard: "Shelby is a physical, athletic linebacker who excelled at the high school level.  He has the all-around ability to play aggressive against the run and to defend receivers in space."

 Conner Doherty                   TE                 6-3                210             Brookings, S.D./Brookings HS

A stand-out both on and off the field, Doherty was an All-Eastern South Dakota Conference pick in 2011 after leading the Brookings High School Bobcats to a 6-5 record and a berth in the quarterfinals of the state playoffs.  He was also named to the All-Brookings Register team last season, as well.  A 2-year starter on the field under head coach Gary Maffet, Doherty was also named as a Varsity Athletic Scholar and earned Academic All-State honors for his efforts in the classroom. 

 Coach Dosch on Doherty: "Connor is an athletic physical player who is a standout athlete at Brookings High School.  His size, speed and competitive nature are good fits for the tight end position."

 Stephen Erlandson             RB                 5-9                185             Breckenridge, Minn./Breckenridge HS

Erlandson is a 4-sport athlete and a 3-time Heart Of Lakes Conference selection, rushing for more than 4,000 career yards and 41 touchdowns in his career for the Breckenridge High School Cowboys and head coach Chad Fredericksen.  Erlandson was named as the HOL Conference MVP in 2010 following a season that saw him run for 1,800 yards and 25 scores.  He was also named to the Honorable Mention All-State squad that season, as the Cowboys went 10-1 on the year.  Erlandson is also a state qualifier in both wrestling and track, reaching the state title match twice in three trips to the state wrestling tournament.

 Coach Dosch on Erlandson: "Stephen is a dynamic runner who had an extremely productive high school career.  He has excellent speed, can make people miss and runs physical. He is a complete back."

 *Zac Emde                              QB                6-1                205             Murrietta, Calif./Kennedy HS/Saddleback College

Emde comes to the Wolves with two seasons of eligibility remaining after spending last season at Saddleback College.  Prior to that, he spent the 2010 season at Orange Coast College, where he played in seven games with the Pirates.  Emde was a First Team All-Empire League and First Team All-CIF selection out of Kennedy High School where he threw for 2,300 yards and 21 touchdowns as a senior.  He led the Fighting Irish to an Empire League championship and to the CIF semifinals.  Emde has enrolled in classes at NSU for the spring semester and will be eligible to participate in spring drills.

 Coach Dosch on Emde: "Zac has the arm strength, experience, and athleticism needed to play quarterback in our conference.  His maturity and feel for the game will allow him to compete at the QB position."

 *Apollo Ford                          DL                 6-1                265             Glendale, Ariz./Cactus HS/Glendale CC

Ford comes to the Wolves from Glendale Community College, where he recorded 23 tackles and a sack in his sophomore campaign, leading the team to an 8-4 record.  Prior to that, he notched 59 tackles and eight sacks as a senior at Cactus High School.  Ford helped the Cobras to an 8-4 record in 2009 under head coach Larry Fetkenhier.  He was also a two-time divisional runner-up in the 215-pound weight class in wrestling.  Ford will have two seasons of eligibility remaining with the Wolves.  He has enrolled in classes at NSU for the spring semester and will be eligible to participate in spring drills.

 Coach Dosch on Ford: "Apollo is an active, physical defensive lineman who has competed at a high level in junior college.  His experience and play-making abilities will allow him to compete for immediate playing time."

 Brady Greenwaldt               OL                 6-3                290             New Ulm, Minn./ New Ulm Senior High

Greenwaldt will be joining the Northern State football program after earning All-South Central Conference honors for the New Ulm High School Eagles under the direction of Robert Bute.  During his senior season Greenwaldt tallied 28 tackles and two sacks en-route to Honorable Mention All-State honors.  Greenwaldt was also a two-year letter winner and team captain on the track and field squad.

 Coach Dosch on Greenwaldt: "Brady is a big, physical offensive lineman.  His size and aggressiveness gives him the potential to be a force at the collegiate level."

 Trever Heining                      LB                 6-2                210             Atwater, Minn./Atwater Cosmos Grove City HS

Heining is a three-sport all-conference athlete from ACGCHS and will continue his football career with the Wolves next fall.  He earned All-West Central South Conference honors as a senior after recording 465 total offensive yards and seven touchdowns.  Defensively, he notched 78 tackles, three sacks and two interceptions.  For his efforts he earned co-MVP and Iron Man honors for the Falcons, while also serving as a team captain.  Heining is also a 1,000-point scorer for the Falcons on the basketball court and has All-Conference certificates for both basketball and baseball.  He is also active in various extra-curricular activities, including student council and as a special education assistant.  He also serves as a youth coach for basketball, football and summer rec programs.

 Coach Dosch on Heining: "Trever is a physical, aggressive linebacker who plays with an edge every snap.  He has the toughness and athleticism needed to compete at a high level."

 Taylor Houchin                     RB                 5-10             180             Rapid City, S.D./Rapid City Central HS

A 2011 South Dakota All-Star, All-GDC Conference and All-State pick, Houchin was named as the Cobblers' special teams and offensive MVP after scoring 13 touchdowns on 49 carries in his senior season under head coach Trent Pikula.  He racked up 835 yards on the ground in that campaign, while also going 6-for-6 in field goal attempts on special teams.  For his efforts, Houchin was also named to the "Best of the West" team and as the West River Monster Player of the Year.

 Coach Dosch on Houchin: "Taylor is a talented running back from Rapid City Central.  He has breakaway speed, the ability to change directions at full speed and make people miss in the open field."

 *John Hughes                        RB                 5-7                180             Peoria, Ariz./Centennial HS/Glendale CC

Hughes also comes to the Wolves with two seasons of eligibility remaining in his career.  Hughes ran for 344 years and three touchdowns at Glendale CC last season, while catching ten passes for 86 yards and a fourth TD.  As a member of the Centennial High School Coyotes, Hughes ran for more than 1,600 yards as a senior in 2009, leading the Coyotes to a 13-0 record and a third straight state title.  He was named to the 2009 all-state team as both a running back and defensive back that season, while also returning punts and kicks for the Coyotes.  Hughes was a 2-time Player of the Year during his junior and senior campaigns.  He has enrolled in classes at NSU for the spring semester and will be eligible to participate in spring drills.

 Coach Dosch on Hughes: "John is a talented, explosive runner, who had a decorated high school career.  He has shown the ability to make people miss, break tackles and run away from defenders.  He brings athleticism and play-making ability to our program, and we expect him to compete for immediate playing time."

 Thad Johnson                        DE                 6-2                215             Sioux Falls, S.D./ Tri-Valley High School

A three-sport athlete for the Mustangs of Tri-Valley High School, Johnson is a 2-time All-State and All-Big Sioux Conference pick under head coach Brad McDonald.  Johnson was also named as the 2011 BSC Co-MVP after leading the Mustangs to a 12-0 record and a state title.  That marked the Mustangs' third trip in four years to the state championship game, where they also earned the state crown in 2008.  In Johnson's four seasons, the Mustangs were a combined 43-5 on the field, including back-to-back 11-1 seasons in 2008 and 2009.  Johnson also participates in wrestling and track and field for the Mustangs, earning a trip to the state tournament in 2010, where he finished third.  Off the field, Johnson is a member of the TVHS student council and mentoring program.

 Coach Dosch on Johnson: "Thad brings athleticism and explosiveness to our team, and he was a standout on Tri-Valley's State Championship.  His aggressive style of play and agility gives him the ability to be a good fit in our scheme."

 Garrett Kaiser                       LB                 5-10             190             Chandler, Ariz./Basha HS

Kaiser notched 138 tackles and four sacks for the Basha High School Bears and head coach Bernie Busken, earning all-region honors as a senior.  Kaiser helped lead the Bears to a 9-4 record and to the playoff semifinals.  He was also tabbed as the Comeback Athlete of the Year and Shaw Courage Award winner in that senior campaign. 

 Coach Dosch on Kaiser: "Garrett is an active, athletic linebacker who played for one of the top teams in Arizona.  He has a nose for the ball, and makes a lot of plays sideline to sideline."

 Kyle Kraayenbrink               DL                 6-2                235             Gilbert, Ariz./Williams Field HS

Kraayenbrink earned second-team all-region honors for the Williams Field High School Blackhawks, who earned a berth in the Arizona state championship game during his senior campaign.  Kraayenbrink was also a member of the Blackhawk track and field squad.

 Coach Dosch on Kraayenbrink: "Kyle is an aggressive, athletic lineman, who competes to the whistle every down.  He plays with the edge and attitude that you look for in a football player."

 Cody Kraft                               TE                 6-3                210             Timberlake, S.D./Timberlake HS

A 3-year starter for the Timberlake High School Panthers, Kraft earned Second Team All-State honors at the tight end slot.  He was also an All-Little Moreau Conference pick after tallying 658 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns on the season.  He also had 28 tackles defensively and was named as the team's Mr. Offense Award winner.  Kraft also qualified for the state track meet in the 110-meter hurdles, finishing sixth in the finals of that event (fourth in prelims) in 16.28 seconds.  He was also named as the basketball team's MVP after averaging 15 points and 12 rebounds per game last season.

 Coach Dosch on Kraft: "Cody brings size and athleticism to the tight end position from Timberlake High School.  His tenacity and play-making abilities will help him to succeed in our program."

 Tanner Lopez                         DL                 6-4                210             Chandler, Ariz./Chandler HS

The younger brother of current NSU player Dallas Lopez, Tanner Lopez joins the Wolves following a high school career that saw him lead the Chandler High School Wolves to back-to-back state playoff berths in 2010 and 2011.  He was named to the Second Team All-State squad as a senior, a season in which the Wolves went 8-3 under head coach Shaun Aguano.  He was also a Second Team All-Region pick as a junior after helping CHS to a 7-3 season mark.  Lopez also played baseball for the Wolves.

 Coach Dosch on Lopez: "Tanner is an athletic, aggressive lineman.  He has the potential to add size and strength to compliment his athleticism"

 Dakota Odermann               LB                 5-11             215             Armstrong, Iowa/Armstrong-Ringsted HS

A 3-time All-State pick, Odermann racked up 384 tackles, seven interceptions and seven fumble recoveries in his career with the Armstrong-Ringsted High School Mustangs, who went 51-4 with two state titles and four straight trips to the state playoffs in his four-year career.  Odermann was tabbed to the First Team All-State squad by the Des Moines Register as a linebacker in both his junior and senior campaigns.  He earned the same honor from the Iowa Sports Connections both years, and was a second team pick as a sophomore.  The Mustangs made three straight trips to the state title game, winning titles in 2009 and 2010.  The Robert Zotz-coached team advanced to the semifinals of the playoffs last fall.  Odermann also participated in track and field for the Mustangs and is a member of the honor roll.

 Coach Dosch on Odermann: "Dakota brings a physical, aggressive style to the linebacker position.  He has a nose for the ball, and will bring energy and enthusiasm to our defense."

 Tyler Oftedahl                      QB                6-4                205             Eagle Bend, Minn./Eagle Valley HS

Oftedahl will begin his collegiate career with the Wolves after setting the Eagle Valley High School single season records for passing yards and touchdowns.  Oftedahl led the EVHS Rebels to a 10-1 record and a Pheasant North Conference title as a senior while throwing for 1,446 yards and 17 touchdowns.  He also rushed for another four scores, giving him 2,747 career passing yards and 27 total touchdowns.  The Rebels were also the sectional runners-up in 2011.  For his efforts on the field, Oftedahl earned a pair of Pheasant North All-Conference honors and was a Section 4 9-man All-Section selection as a senior.  Oftedahl was also named to the all-conference team as a junior on the basketball court, while also participating in baseball for the Rebels.  Off the court, Oftedahl is a member of the EVHS band and FFA chapter.

 Coach Dosch on Oftedahl: "Tyler is an accurate thrower who showed good pocket presence and poise.  He used his feet and arm to be an effective quarterback in high school and we expect the same at the college level."

 Joe Parsley                             DB                6-1                185             Flandreau, S.D./Flandreau HS

A 4-year starter and 2-year team captain for the Flandreau High School Fliers, Parsley helped lead his Chad Stadem-coached team to three Big East Conference titles and the 2010 South Dakota Class 11B State Championship.  Parsley ends his high school career as one of the top players in the FHS record book.  He leaves as the FHS career leader in points scored with 244 (40 touchdowns, 2 PATs).  He is also sixth in career tackles (194), tied for first in interceptions (10), and fifth in passing yards (1,367), third in career rushing (271 carries for 2,039 yards – 7.52 yards per carry).  A three-time All-Big East Conference selection, Parsley has earned All-State honors as both a defensive back (2010) and quarterback (2011).  He was named as the 2011 Mr. Football Class 11B Player of the Year following his senior year.  Parsley is a two-time selection to the Brookings Register All-Register squad and was a 2011 pick to the Argus Leader Elite 45.  Aside from football, Parsley also played basketball and baseball and was a member of the 2011Fliers' state champion medley relay team at last spring's state track and field championships.  He also finished sixth in the 400-meter dash at that meet.  Off the field of play, Parsley is active in band, choir, FCA, the Knights of Columbus and his local church.

 Coach Dosch on Parsley: "Joe is a playmaker with an excellent feel for the game.  He was a standout on both sides of the ball at Flandreau High School, and we expect him to excel in our secondary."

 Tyler Robel                             OL                 6-5                275             Watertown, S.D./ Watertown High School

Robel is a four-year letter winner and 3-year starter on the offensive line for the Watertown High School Arrows under head coach Scott Liteheiser.  He was named to the All-Eastern South Dakota Conference Honorable Mention squad this past fall while serving as a team captain for the Arrows.  Robel was also member of the wrestling and track teams

 Coach Dosch on Robel: "Tyler is an aggressive, physical lineman from Watertown High School.  Also a standout wrestler, he competes and plays hard to the whistle on every down.

 Austin Russell                       DL                 6-2                240             Wheaton, Minn./Wheaton HS

Russell recorded 55 tackles and five sacks to help lead the Wheaton High School Warriors to a 12-2 record and a berth in the 2011 state title game under head coach Tony Thiel.  For his efforts, Russell was named to the 2011 All-Pheasant Conference, All-Section and All-State squads and was the PC Lineman MVP.  He was also 2-time team offensive lineman of the year, and earned all-conference honors during his junior season as well.  Russell also participated in basketball and track and field for the Warriors, earning Thrower of the Year honors as both a sophomore and junior on the track team.

 Coach Dosch on A. Russell: "Austin is a tough, physical player who was a dominant player in high school.  His athleticism and versatility will makes him a good fit in our defensive scheme."

 Jordan Russell                       LB                 6-1                215             Oshkosh, Neb./Garden County High School

A three-sport athlete and 4-year football letter winner at Garden County High School under the direction of Jason Spady, Russell will continue his gridiron career with the Wolves next fall.  Russell recorded 128 tackles, 14 forced fumbles, eight fumble recoveries and a sack on the defensive squadron for the GCHS Eagles, earning him First Team All-Minuteman Athletic Conference, First Team All-District, First Team All-Panhandle and Honorable Mention All-State honors in the process.  The Eagles were 10-1 that season and advanced to the state quarterfinals.  Russell also earned Honorable Mention All-State accolades as a junior after recording 97 tackles, nine forced fumbles, four fumble recoveries, two sacks and three interceptions.  Also an accomplished wrestler, Russell advanced to the Nebraska state wrestling tournament in 2009 and 2010.  Outside of athletics, Russell is highly active in a variety of extra-curricular and community activities, including student council (serves as the student body president), drama, speech, youth group, Garden County Drug Free Coalition, Boys State and scholastics competitions.

 Coach Dosch on J. Russell: "Jordan is an aggressive, physical linebacker with a knack for being around the ball.  His athleticism and size will make him a successful collegiate player."

 Casey Sailer                           LB                 5-11             195             LaMoure, N.D./LaMoure High School

Sailer, a 2011 all-state and all-region pick and defensive MVP for the Joel Bickford coached LaMoure High School Loboes, helped lead his team to a 7-3 record and a second straight trip to the state playoffs in 2011.  Sailer carried the ball for more than 400 yards and five touchdowns in that campaign, while leading the team in tackles for the third straight season.

 Coach Dosch on Sailer: "Casey brings an edge and the passion you need to be a successful college linebacker.  He was a standout for LaMoure High School and we are excited about his future at NSU.

 Chris Sandretzky                  OL                 6-5                260             Maple Lake, Minn./Maple Lake HS

Sandretzky comes to the Wolves from Maple Lake High School, where he earned Second Team All-Central Minnesota Conference honors as a senior.  Sandretzky and the MLHS Leprechauns went 9-3 during his junior season and 7-5 in his senior campaign, advancing to the first round of the state playoffs both seasons.

 Coach Dosch on Sandretzky: "Chris is a strong, physical player who competes aggessively and with an edge every down.  He has the frame to add the size and strength needed to be a successful collegiate lineman."

 Austin Schmitt                      OL                 6-1                265             Rapid City, S.D./St. Thomas More HS

Schmitt comes to the Wolves after anchoring the St. Thomas More High School offensive line for three years and 33 straight games under the direction of head coach Wayne Sullivan.  A 2011 All-Black Hills Conference pick and team MVP, he helped lead the Cavaliers to a third straight BHC championship last fall.  The Cavaliers notched 2,592 rushing yards and 1,802 passing yards in 2011.  In Schmitt's three-year stint as a starter, the team has notched more than 12,000 total yards on offense and compiled an overall record of 26-7, advancing to the state title game (Class 11B) in 2009.  Schmitt is also an Honorable Mention All-Region player for the STMHS baseball squad, which earned the 2009 state title and advanced to the final four in the 2010 playoff season.  Schmitt, whose father also attended Northern State from 1983-1987, is also active in FCA and as a senior retreat and Teen Life Choice leader.

 Coach Dosch on Schmitt: "Austin is a fierce competitor who was a key player for St. Thomas More.  He has toughness and a good feel for the game to compliment his aggressive style."

 Adam Schultz                        WR               5-11             180             Fairmont, Minn./Fairmont HS

A two-sport stand-out at Fairmont High School, Schultz helped lead the Cardinals to a 12-2 record and a berth in the state championship game in his senior campaign.  Schultz recorded 58 catches for 877 yards and eight touchdowns and returned a kick-off for a ninth TD in that campaign.  For his efforts, he was named to the Associated Press Honorable Mention All-State team and was the All-Area Co-Player of the Year.  Schultz was also voted as the team MVP in addition to a pair of All-Area and All-South Central Conference honors.  In his career, Schultz hauled in 139 catches for 2,036 yards and 21 touchdowns for the Cardinals under head coach Mat Mahoney.  On the track, Schultz helped lead the Cardinals to three straight conference titles and the 2011 state championship.  He placed fifth at the state meet in the 400 meters and was a member of the fourth place 4x400-meter and sixth place 4-x200-meter relay squads.  Schultz was also a member of the honor roll and served as a team captain.

 Coach Dosch on Schmitt: "Adam is a difference maker at the receiver position.  He has shown the ability to outrun people, make difficult catches and make plays."

 Chad Stoterau                       DL                 6-3                240             Garretson, S.D./Garretson HS

Stoterau was named to the 2011 All-Big East Conference, All-State and Honorable Mention Argus Leader Elite 45 teams following his senior season with the Garretson High School Blue Dragons under head coach Tim Huges. Stoterau finished his career with 152 tackles, six sacks, ten tackles for a loss, four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.  Hhe was also a member of the 2011 BEC tournament championship basketball squad, while playing American Legion Baseball in the summer months.  His Legion squad won the 2011 state title.  Stoterau has been named to the honor roll all four years, and is involved in 4-H and drama.

 Coach Dosch on Stoterau: "Chad is a tremendous athlete, excelling in several sports for Garretson High School.  His athleticism complements his physical play and toughness, making him a great fit in our scheme."

 Matt Thorson                        DB                6-0                185             Groton, S.D./Groton HS

Thorson, a local stand-out from Groton High School, begins his NSU career after leading the Groton Tigers to a 9-1 record and a Northeast Conference Championship in 2011.  A versatile 5-sport athlete, including wrestling, baseball, track & field, and soccer, Thorson was named as a South Dakota Class 11B All-State defensive back as a senior.  He was also tabbed to the Aberdeen American News All-Area team and the Argus Leader Elite 45 and was a South Dakota All-Star Games football selection.  As a senior, Thorson racked up more than 1,000 yards and nine touchdowns on the ground in addition to his 1,100+ yards and another nine TD's passing.  Defensively, he recorded 64 total tackles, three sacks, one fumble recovery (which he returned for a TD) and an interception.  A three-time All-NEC pick, Thorson recorded 1,486 rushing yards, 1,717 passing yards, 217 receiving yards and 31 combined touchdowns in his career in addition to his 181 tackles, five sacks, four fumble recoveries and four interceptions.  Also an accomplished wrestler, Thorson also holds the GHS school record for career wins on the mat.  He has twice placed at the state wrestling tournament, including a third place finish in 2011.  Thorson is also a two-time state qualifier and place winner in track.  A four-year honor roll recipient, Thorson is also active in FCA, his church youth group and serves as a youth football and wrestling coach.

 Coach Dosch on Thorson: "Matt is a standout student-athlete.  His athleticism and play-making abilities were a big reason behind Groton's success.  His toughness, combined with his dynamic style, will allow him the chance to be a impact player at the college level."

 Adam Weiszhaar                 LB                 6-2                190             Bowdle, S.D./Eureka-Bowdle HS

Named as the team MVP during both his junior and senior seasons with the Eureka-Bowdle High School Patriots, Weiszhaar notched 98 tackles, two forced fumbles and five interceptions in 2011 en-route to all-area and all-state honors.  He also racked up 916 rushing yards, 332 receiving yards and 22 total touchdowns on the season.  Weiszhaar  was also named to the all-area as a junior after leading the team to a 7-2 season record, and was a member of the Patriots' medley relay squad that took third place at the 2011 state meet.

 Coach Dosch on Weiszhaar: "Adam is a talented, all-around athlete for Eureka-Bowdle.  He has the toughness and versatility to play several positions at the collegiate level."

 Bryce Williams                     LB                 6-3                210             Catheys Valley, Calif./Mariposa County High School

Williams, the younger brother of current NSU player Matt Williams, joins the Wolves after a stand-out career at Mariposa County High School, where he earned a pair of All-Southern Athletic League honors and was named as the SAC Outstanding Lineman in 2011.  Bryce Williams notched 65 tackles, one sack, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and four total passes defended in 2011 en-route to outstanding defensive player honors for the MCHS Grizzlies, who advanced to the first round of the District 5 playoffs for the third straight season.  Williams, who also knows and competes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, was named as the Grizzlies' outstanding linebacker in 2010.  Off the field, Williams is involved in FFA and has won a state title in beef showmanship.

 Coach Dosch on Williams: "Bryce brings a physical presence to our program.  He plays an aggressive style, and will be a good fit at linebacker in our 3-4 scheme."

 Taylor Zemlicka                    QB                6-0                190             Waverly, S.D./Waverly/South Shore HS

One of the top players on the 2011 Waverly/South Shore HS undefeated state championship squad, Zemlicka earned All-State, Player of the Year, All-Conference, Conference Offensive MVP and team MVP honors after throwing for 2,176 yards and 32 touchdowns and running for another 911 yards and 19 touchdowns.  He was also named as the MVP of the state championship game and as the captain of the Argus Leader Elite 45 team.  Zemlicka, whose twin brother Tyson will also join the NSU squad next fall, owns all of WSSHS's passing records, having thrown for 5,684 yards and 74 touchdowns in his career.  He has a combined 115 combined touchdowns in his career, including 51 in his senior campaign.  Also a 4-year letter winner in basketball, Zemlicka helped lead the Coyotes to a district championship in 2009.  He is also a member of the Coyotes' track and field squad.  Off the field, Zemlicka is active in FCA and has maintained perfect attendance at WSSHS.

 Coach Dosch on Ta. Zemlicka: "Taylor is a winner.  He was the starting QB on Waverly-South Shores championship team, which shows his leadership and playmaking abilities.  He has the talent to play several positions in the college game."

 Tyson Zemlicka                     WR               6-2                200             Waverly, S.D./Waverly/South Shore HS

Like his twin brother Taylor, Tyson Zemlicka comes to the Wolves following a stand-out career at Waverly/South Shore High School, helping lead the Coyotes to back-to-back conference championships an undefeated 12-0 season and a Class B 9-man state championship title last fall.  Zemlicka is a 3-time First Team All-Conference selection and a two-time selection to the All-State and Argus Leader Elite 45 squads.  He was an honorable mention to the Elite 45 as a junior, then joined Taylor as a captain for the 2011 squad.  Tyson recorded 107 tackles, five sacks, two interceptions and four forced fumbles on the defensive side of the field.  He also hauled in 44 catches for 789 yards and 16 touchdowns from his brother Taylor on the receiving corps.  In his career, Tyson holds school records for most tackles (273), most forced fumbles (9), fumbles recovered (7), sacks, receptions (143), receiving yards (2,508) and receiving touchdowns (36).  He is also one of just five players in South Dakota to have surpassed the 2,000-yard plateau for career receiving yards.  Also a four-year letter winner in basketball and track, Zemlicka helped lead the Coyotes to the 2009 district basketball championship.  Off the field, he has perfect attendance in class and has been on the honor roll throughout his high school career.  He is also active in FCA and his local youth group.

 Coach Dosch on Ty. Zemlicka: "Tyson was a major reason for Waverly-South Shores' state championship.  He is an excellent all-around athlete who can play several positions at the college level."

 Cody Zimmerman                WR               5-9                170             Scottsdale, Ariz./ Desert Mountain High School

Zimmerman was a 4-year starter and a 2-time All-Desert Valley Region pick (2009, 2010) as a kick returner for the Desert Mountain High School Wolves under the direction of Tony Tabor.  During his senior season at Desert Moutain, Zimmerman tallied more than 750 receiving yards and scored six touchdowns.  He also had three interceptions on the defensive side of the ball.  Zimmerman was named to the Coaches Association First Team All-Section III North squad at the wide receiver slot in 2011.

 Coach Dosch on Zimmerman: "Cody is a dynamic playmaker.   He is an excellent route-runner who has shown the ability to catch the ball in traffic and run away from people after the catch.

 *Indicates transfer athlete.  All others will be true freshmen in 2012.

 Player breakdown by state:

South Dakota – 15

Minnesota – 11

Arizona – 7

California – 2

North Dakota – 2

Iowa – 1

Nebraska – 1

 2012 Northern State Schedule

September

1              *at Augustana                                                                     Sioux Falls, S.D.                              1 p.m.

8              *vs Southwest Minnesota State                                 Aberdeen, S.D.                               1 p.m.

15           *at Winona State                                                               Winona, Minn.                                1 p.m.

22           *vs Concordia-St. Paul                                                     Aberdeen, S.D.                               1 p.m.

29           *at MSU Moorhead                                                           Moorhead, Minn.                          1 p.m.

October

6              *vs Minot State                                                                  Aberdeen, S.D.                               2:30 p.m.

13           *at Bemidji State                                                               Bemidji, Minn.                                1 p.m.

20           *vs St. Cloud State                                                            Aberdeen, S.D.                               2:30 p.m.

27           *at U-Mary                   &n, bsp;                                                        Bismarck, S.D.                                 1 p.m.

November

3              *vs Minnesota, Crookston                                             Aberdeen, S.D.                               1 p.m.

10           *at Minnesota-Duluth                                                     Duluth, Minn.                                  1 p.m.

 

*Indicates NSIC contest

Home games in bold

 

 

**GO WOLVES**