MSUM Dragons Podcasts: Recent Episodes
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The MSUM Dragons Podcast is sponsored by:
It's Naitonal Signing Day for Dragons Football!
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is More Than a Game…I'm your host Jon 'Webbie' Wepking.
We've got Head Football Coach Steve Laqua as he explains the process of getting to signing day which is a 13 month process for his staff and recruits. You want the names of this year's signees, head to MSUMDragons.com/NSD24. It's signing day…right now…let's go!
The MSUM Dragons Podcast is sponsored by:
It’s signing day, it’s signing day, it’s signing day for Dragons Football!
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is More Than a Game…I’m your host Jon ‘Webbie’ Wepking.
We’ve got Head Football Coach Steve Laqua talking about recruiting for the Dragon football program and how he likens this day to Christmas as the gifts of new members to the Dragon Family come pouring in. Get the pitch from the Laqua himself as he explains the process of getting to signing day which is a 13 month process for his staff and recruits. You want the names of this year’s signees, head to MSUMDragons.com/NSD23 that’s MSUMDragons.com/NSD23. It’s signing day…right now…let’s go!
The MSUM Dragons Podcast is sponsored by:
Former MSUM Student-Athlete Advisory Committee President and Dragons track & field alum Rachel Schumacher was interviewed this week by the NCAA's Haydyn Gibson about the Joe's Heroes Make-A-Wish night which received the 2023 NCAA Division II Award of Excellence. The NCAA and Gibson were kind enough to share their podcast with us.
The Award of Excellence is the highest non-athletic honor the NCAA bestows to an institution. The award was presented to MSUM athletic director Chad Markuson at the annual NCAA convention in San Antonio, Texas, on Saturday morning. MSU Moorhead was named a finalist, along with 22 other institutions, on January 4. The award is intended to celebrate, recognize and champion a school's community engagement efforts.
"It was such an honor to be named a finalist. To win the Award of Excellence is very humbling and exciting for our student athletes," said Markuson. "Their work in the community is both inspiring and aligns great with NCAA Division II core values."
MSUM's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee put together a massive event to honor their friend and Dragon superfan Joe Keller. Through SAAC's work, MSUM helped raise $4,385 for Make-a-Wish North Dakota to honor their friend who had previously had his wish granted. Keller was an MSUM student, superfan and athletics intern with muscular dystrophy who passed away in the summer of 2021.
"I appreciate the NCAA's commitment to recognizing student athletes for their contributions outside of their sports. Our Dragon student athletes exemplify MSU Moorhead's core values of grit, humility, and heart—both on and off the playing field," said MSUM President Dr. Anne Blackhurst. "They inspire my Dragon Pride every day and I'm thrilled they've received national recognition for their extraordinary engagement with our community."
FULL AWARD OF EXCELLENCE PRESS RELEASE
The MSUM Dragons Podcast is sponsored by:
MSUM Softball sophomore Grace Oeltjen joined the National Guard on "kind of a dare". We asked her what the similarities and differences are between her two teams and how they've prepared her for life.
The MSUM Dragons Podcast is sponsored by:
MSUM junior running back Tyson Powell had his first competitive season of college football ripped away by COVID and by an ACL tear. Not the worst time for an injury like that but a long road to recovery laid ahead. Then, when the new season brought football back...another devastating ACL tear in the other leg. Faced with a difficult decision and a hard road either way, Powell decided to come back. He decided it was worth it to go through all that work again for a shot at playing college football for the Dragons.
Then...after 2 years...it happened. What did that feel like? Was it worth it? What'd he learn? All that in this episode of the MSUM Dragons Podcast.
A ONCE IN A LIFETIME GAME FOR THE ICKERT TWINS
(Apologies in advance for the mispronunciation from Jon Wepking)
The Ickert twins, McKenzie Ickert and Alexa Ickert spent their youth playing soccer together…eventually they both succeeded at advancing to the collegiate level for different teams…Kenz with MSUM and Alexa with St. Scholastica. Fast forward a few years, they’re now both seniors…playing in their final seasons competitively…and look who popped up on the pre-season schedule. A twin sister face-off. On this episode we talk to the Ickert twins about the once in a lifetime game and how the game of soccer has forged a special bond between the two sisters...
WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW BELOW
Who is Mike Armitage and why is he here at MSUM? Coming in hot with the tough questions so you can get to know our new Softball head coach, his coaching philosophy, ideal recruit, and why he loves the game.
The MSUM Dragons Podcast is sponsored by:
MSUM Dragons Men's Basketball junior Gavin Baumgartner came in with a class of freshman with high aspirations and now, after winning the NSIC/Sanford Health Tournament Championship...those aspirations are now becoming a reality. Host Jon 'Webbie' Wepking and Baumgartner discuss what changed mentally within the team to go from an 11-11 record to an 8 game win streak leading to cutting down nets. What it feels like to do something MSUM has never done before. What really matters, the trophy or the memories? And of course, a little talk about the upcoming NCAA Tournament as the #DragonsMarchOn this Saturday.
The MSUM Dragons Podcast is sponsored by:
Dragons senior wrestler Cole Jones joins the podcast after senior day, but before MSUM hosts the NCAA Super Region V Championships. He discusses becoming a leader in the room, how to lead through adversity, and why he supports his Dragon Family.
The MSUM Dragons Podcast is sponsored by:
MSUM Head Tennis Coach Jason Thiner has been Isabel Resler's coach growing up and in high school at Fargo South...as well as her DAD! This Saturday, his Dragons take on her UMD Bulldogs. They both join us on this episode of the MSUM Dragons Podcast to talk about the parent/coach relationship to a child/athlete as they prepare to compete against each other as well.
The MSUM Dragons Podcast is sponsored by:
PODCAST INTRO: "I love it when a plan comes together…that’s for our listeners who’ve can appreciate an A-Team reference…but our Dragon Basketball games this Saturday are an example of just that. Several plans coming together to do good in our community, to honor our friend, entertain the fans, feed our students, and celebrate the accomplishments and dedication of our seniors…and more. Here to talk about their personal ties to all that and a bag of chips, is a pair of point guards…please welcome Bryce Irsfeld and Natalie Steichen."
Coach Laqua joins us on Football National Signing Day 2022 to talk about the class as a whole, how his staff identifys athletes that are the right fit, and celebrating many new members of the Dragon Family finally making it official.
PODCAST INTRO: "Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is 'More Than a Game'...I'm your host, Jon Webbie Wepking.
How rare is it to have multiple family members play at the collegiate level...let alone for the same program? The Beeninga brothers; Johnny, Jacob, and Eddie have made Dragon men's basketball their home. What better group to feature during the holidays to talk about family, traditions, and of course a little basketball? Here they are...right NOW!"
QUOTES FROM THE SHOW:
JOHNNY: We actually have an older sister who's a teacher who is going to grad school at MSUM as well so there's 4 Beeningas going to school at MSUM right now.
JACOB: It just feels like family here because I got to know the guys (on the team) watching Johnny play...so it made it easy to fit in here and with both brothers here it really feels like family up here.
JACOB: You see my older brother I looked up to all through high school and stuff seeing him be successful here and be happy here...I think I wanted that for myself too.
EDDIE: Having family here is big because my recruiting process was so difference because of COVID. I thought (MSUM) was best for me because I saw the success both of them had and knew I could follow that path and be successful too.
JOHNNY: Eddie really put in the work. He wasn't on the radar very much but really did a good job and had a commitment to get better and get to this level too.
JOHNNY: I wanted to try hockey but my dad didn't let me. Glad he made me stick to basketball.
JOHNNY: Eddie is the only one of us to get two state titles in football and basketball so he's got a leg up on us.
JACOB: Most families would go out or go to the movies, and we'd grab a bat or a ball and play sports. We've always loved sports and played and competed against each other and that brought us closer together.
JACOB: I'd say Eddie (is the most competitive)...he HATES losing.
JOHNNY: I think they've done great so far up here and really proud of both of them on how they've handled it. I think they're doing really well and it's fun to be able to help each other and be around each other still. Not just to watch them play but to be able to go to lunch together or talk about classes because we're all business majors. Proud of what they're doing and to be a part of it.
Dragon women's basketball junior Natalie Steichen shares what it takes to lead her team after leaders graduate, why MSUM was the right fit for her, why she wants to become a nurse, and how the two leadership roles play into each other.
Today is Veterans Day and one of the many things that I think about as we honor this holiday is how many of the first hand experiences we lose over time…and hopefully we helped capture a snapshot of one on today’s show for you. Larry MacLeod is considered one of the first ballot faces on the Mt. Rushmore of Dragon Athletics. His years coaching, in administration, teaching, and all the people he influenced in his time have shared countless stories of his heart and kindness.
Larry is also a Veteran of World War II on both fronts and in two different branches of the military. Today, he shares with us his story of service.
Larry Scott also created a great feature story on Dragon Veterans (including Larry MacLeod) that you can read by CLICKING HERE.
EPISODE QUOTES FROM ABE ROEHRICH:
"You could tell they're very genuine people...my mom even said, "You can tell they have good values." The values of the program matched who I wanted to be in the future."
"It's 4-5 years of your life where you're basically making all the decisions. The biggest thing is deciding who you want to be and what values you have. It's the people that matter. If you're around good people and you're doing something kinda crappy or hard, it'll probably be fun. If you're doing something fun with crappy people, it's probably not going to be fun. Go somewhere with people you want to be like because you're going to become more like those people as you spend more and more time with them."
"In high school I thought I had the 10 best friends I'd have forever. The guys that I'm gonna be friends with forever (the guys in my wedding) ended up being the guys I played with at MSUM."
"You're gonna be valued as a person at MSUM. No matter what your role is or isn't, you matter in this program. Everybody cares about everybody."
"As a player, Find A Way was the most important. Gotta find a way to bring that positive energy no matter what you're doing and push through. Now it's Be A Great Teammate...to Maren, my wife. Stepping up and doing the dishes even though I know she'll do them if I leave em. It's bled more into my life outside of football."
"The area I changed the most in was Do What's Right. I wasn't a "bad" kid, but Laqua almost engrains it in ya. "Is this the right thing or not?" goes through your head on every decision. Make the decision that will make you happy a year from now not an hour from now. It's the cookie and the apple. Cookie makes you feel good now, but the apple will make you feel good tomorrow."
"Hopefully I'm having as big of an impact on others as Coach Koch had on me."
EVAN MOORE QUOTES FROM THE EPISODE:
“You have this group of guys from all over and at the end of the day we all have the same values. The culture was everything I expected and more.”
“It’s everything that’s presented to you in the recruiting process and probably more. The coaches and the guys were the same guys I met on day one till my last day."
“(HS) Senior me was selfish. At MSUM, it was more about my role and being the best at it I could be whether is was scout team or whatever. What can I do to help the young guys get ready. The team first attitude changed significantly over my five years.”
Without a doubt, the single most valuable day to give to MSUM is Giving Day...which is October 28th. Why you ask? Because a $25,000 matching gift from Bob & Candice Bowlsby doubling your gift AND $10,000 in "high-fives" will be split up between the sports based on how many donations over $5 (a "high-five", get it) they receive. So...$5 could help your team earn a larger share of the $10,000 and will at least be doubled by the Bowlsby's.
Breaking all that down, how to give, and more is MSUM Foundation's Cindy Bailey joining the MSUM Dragons Podcast.
HINT - You can donate by CLICKING HERE
EPISODE QUOTES FROM JAKUP SINANI:
"We're worried about having great people in the program...that's what makes a program special. [Other teams] may have more flashy things that they show off...we're more worried about having the best people in the conference."
"Laqua always says...It's not always as bad as you think, it's not always as good as you think. My senior season got cancelled, yeah that sucked. But there's things bigger things in life."
"I grew as a person. When you come to play college football, we were all the star on our high school team. Everyone is just as good as you or better. I had to be the backup and be supportive and embrace that role. Just started a new job, just gotta slowly make your way up and do your role to the best of your ability."
For those of you who don't know what THE DRAGON WAY is, simply it's four things Dragon Football focuses on to create men of character. Do What's Right, Find A Way, Be A Great Teammate, and Keep Getting Better! That's THE DRAGON WAY.
Dayla Miller and Anna Steadland both transferred to MSUM, but for different reasons. They join us on the MSUM Dragons Podcast today to talk about how the move to Moorhead has impacted them and how they're impacting others on their youthful team who didn't get to compete last season.
EPISODE QUOTES - Mike Mann
"My first 3 years at school I had 3 different head coaches...It was very clear that first morning (Laqua started) that it was, okay, we're not going to do things the way they've been done here before. We're gonna implement a system...hop on board or get out the way." "[What amazed me] we how clear expectations were and how little he could care about little things. The things he cared about he cared about 100%."
"My 10 best friends are all from Dragon Football....Dragon Football is truly a family."
"When I was there we had an underdog mentality. We always bonded together to overcome with what we had."
"[Doing what's right], that applies to my everyday life. One of the coach's examples...walking the hallway, seeing something on floor and pick it up. Even today I get so mad at myself if I ever pass up that opportunity."
"I was never the biggest, the fastest, or the strongest guy. I always tried to show up and to the right thing and eventually I got quite a bit of playing time...In my life, there's people a lot smarter than me, a lot more talented than me. But I think showing up, nose to the grindstone everyday and just be willing to outwork people is something I'll carry with me for the rest of my life."
"Those cold winter mornings going to conditioning in January are brutal, but that's when you decide if you really love football or not. You figure out why you're doing it because no one wants to go morning conditioning at 5am on a Tuesday. Figure out your why, what's driving you to do the work."
"When I got to Moorhead I was a kid. When I left I was closer to being a man. Laqua and the coaches gave us a lot of opportunities to become adults and gave us responsibility and earn their trust."
For those of you who don't know what THE DRAGON WAY is, simply it's four things Dragon Football focuses on to create men of character. Do What's Right, Find A Way, Be A Great Teammate, and Keep Getting Better! That's THE DRAGON WAY.
The all-time leader in points scored for MSUM Swimming & Diving, Erin Sullivan, has returned to the Dragons as an assistant coach. Hear how her first couple months on the job are going, making the shift from athlete to coach, and how she plans to help future Dragons erase her name from the record books.
"They (MSUM football coaches) didn't necessarily talk about talent in the recruiting process. They talked about you have the character, work ethic, the intangibles of men of character...and that's why you get recruiting to play at MSUM," Dan Grande
For those of you who don't know what THE DRAGON WAY is, simply it's four things Dragon Football focuses on to create men of character. Do What's Right, Find A Way, Be A Great Teammate, and Keep Getting Better! That's THE DRAGON WAY.
Here to talk about his experience playing for Dragon Football and living THE DRAGON WAY in episode 6 is JP Mortenson who talks how a focus on leadership in Dragons football helped JP land a dream job with Carson Group...saying his gut choice of going to MSUM was "one of the best decisions of my life".
For those of you who don't know what THE DRAGON WAY is, simply it's four things Dragon Football focuses on to create men of character. Do What's Right, Find A Way, Be A Great Teammate, and Keep Getting Better! That's THE DRAGON WAY.
It is homecoming week here in Dragonland…a time to come back to this place many once called home, engage with alumni, and the community. Our show does just that today…connects with an alum who is connecting with fellow alums to promote Dragons Football on THE DRAGON WAY Podcast. Yup, crossover episode time as we welcome former athlete, former coach, and current host of THE DRAGON WAY Podcast…the man whose loves are simply his family and BDubs…please welcome Wade Youngblom!!!
Here to talk about his experience playing for Dragon Football and living THE DRAGON WAY in episode 5 is Deiondre Taylor who talks about his experiences with Dragons Football helps him tackle occupational therapy school to become the real Dr. Dre.
For those of you who don't know what THE DRAGON WAY is, simply it's four things Dragon Football focuses on to create men of character. Do What's Right, Find A Way, Be A Great Teammate, and Keep Getting Better! That's THE DRAGON WAY.
One of the biggest themes I’ve heard from our Dragons this year after losing seasons in the last 2 years because of COVID…is making sure not to take this year, this season, each game…for granted. They all saw that the opportunity to compete is not promised and could be ripped away at a moments notice. But this isn’t new for athletes who have suffered a severe injury. Someone who has experience both for the Dragons Volleyball team is Sarah Petrbok who joins us to day to share her outlook how she plans to make the most of every opportunity…and based on how busy her schedule is…this isn’t lip service folks…real deal…right here…RIGHT NOW!
Here to talk about his experience playing for Dragon Football and living THE DRAGON WAY in episode 4 is Jeff Stith who talks about how Find a Way and Fix Your Attitude has put loss, be a great teammate in marriage, and how his experience at MSUM helps him put hard times in perspective.
For those of you who don't know what THE DRAGON WAY is, simply it's four things Dragon Football focuses on to create men of character. Do What's Right, Find A Way, Be A Great Teammate, and Keep Getting Better! That's THE DRAGON WAY.
After one week, we are $6,000 into a $20,000 weight room renovation fundraising goal. But it's more than new space, it's more than new equipment, yup...you guessed it...IT'S MORE THAN A GAME! It's the people who have been building the strength and conditioning program here at MSUM that have truly made the difference for our student-athletes and now, they get an investment and an opportunity to lift all Dragons programs more than ever before. Joining us today, former strength coach Travis Anderson & current strength coach Phil Herkenhoff!
As I said in the show, now is the time to make a lasting impact on all Dragons with a donation or help spreading the word. There’s $20,000 in matching funds so your gift can have double the value. This doesn’t happen often enough…so please, let’s make it great, let’s make it last, let’s do it NOW! Go to MSUMDragons.com/LIFT and put your name on it!
Without a fall season last year due to COVID, Dragon Football assisted in creating an award-winning television show called THE DRAGON WAY. Now that games are back, they're continuing to promote the culture and values of the program through a new THE DRAGON WAY Podcast. Hear and see MSUM Dragons Football through the lens of those who lived it while they played and how they're living it today.
Your host is former Dragons player and coach Wade Youngblom, and he likes B-Dubs, the sponsor of TDW Podcast.
For those of you who don't know what THE DRAGON WAY is, simply it's four things Dragon Football focuses on to create men of character. Do What's Right, Find A Way, Be A Great Teammate, and Keep Getting Better! That's THE DRAGON WAY. Here to talk about his experience playing for Dragon Football and Living THE DRAGON WAY in episode 3 is Austin Stone who talks about one football culture piece that stuck with him called E+R=O.
You can listen to THE DRAGON WAY podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and of course MSUMDragons.com and the MSUM DRAGONS app. If you believe, like we do, that something great is happening at Dragon Football...please subscribe and share the show!
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons podcast where we believe the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is More Than A Game.
Our first official fall regular season home event is here. Opening Day on the 2021-22 season begins in the dark…well, kinda. Dragons Cross Country was on the road training and team-building during fall media day so we wanted to catch up with head coach Ryan Milner about his teams this season and how the Dragon Twilight meet tomorrow is helping grow the sport of Cross Country in the community among new runners and old alike. That and more…right now!
Without a fall season last year due to COVID, Dragon Football assisted in creating an award-winning television show called THE DRAGON WAY. Now that games are back, they're continuing to promote the culture and values of the program through a new THE DRAGON WAY Podcast. Hear and see MSUM Dragons Football through the lens of those who lived it while they played and how they're living it today.
Your host is former Dragons player and coach Wade Youngblom, and he likes B-Dubs, the sponsor of TDW Podcast.
For those of you who don't know what THE DRAGON WAY is, simply it's four things Dragon Football focuses on to create men of character. Do What's Right, Find A Way, Be A Great Teammate, and Keep Getting Better! That's THE DRAGON WAY. Here to talk about his experience playing for Dragon Football and Living THE DRAGON WAY in episode 2 is Aaron Bohl who is coaching at Wyoming and growing his family THE DRAGON WAY.
You can listen to THE DRAGON WAY podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and of course MSUMDragons.com and the MSUM DRAGONS app. If you believe, like we do, that something great is happening at Dragon Football...please subscribe and share the show!
What are the four walks every athlete should take in their career?
Welcome to the first episode of the new 2021-22 season…I’m excited that you’re joining us. I’m also fired up for our guest today, our interim athletics director Chad Markuson. He’s been here for 10 years, including last year’s COVID cancelled filled season, and he joins us today to talk about the similarities and differences heading into a fall season for the first time in two years, new broadcasting options for our fans, and he shares his first message to all student-athletes this fall about the four walks of their career. That’s right now on the MSUM Dragons Podcast!
Hello and welcome to The Dragon Way Podcast where we showcase the culture of MSUM Dragons Football through the lens of those who lived it while they played and how they're living it today.
Your host is former Dragons player and coach Wade Youngblom, and he likes B-Dubs, the sponsor of TDW Podcast.
For those of you who don't know what The Dragon Way is, simply it's four things Dragon Football focuses on to create men of character. Do What's Right, Find A Way, Be A Great Teammate, and Keep Getting Better! That's The Dragon Way.
Here to talk about his experience playing for Dragon Football and Living the Dragon Way today is Isaac "Ripp" Ripplinger.
Today is World Wish Day and on today’s episode is is a celebration of a record-breaking fundraiser for Make-A-Wish by our Student Athlete Advisory Committee (otherwise known as SAAC). Two members of the team that not only raised thousands of dollars, but also had thousands of workouts pouring in from all over the country from the Dragon Athletics community…all with the goal of making wishes come true. And when you hear their personal stories of how wishes have directly impacted their lives…you can tell they were going to make this successful no matter what. Telling us their wish stories and how to run a fundraiser in a pandemic…here’s SAAC leadership members Brooklyn Liegel and Rachel Schumacher!
Some of you probably know Chad already from is 9-ish years at MSUM as our Associate AD and more recently as our Deputy AD…but his name might be completely new to some of you and even if you knew of him…what do you know about him? That's the topic today…getting to know our Interim Athletics Director…CHAD MARKUSON!!!
Two weeks ago, MSUM Athletics Director Doug Peters announced that he will be leaving the Dragons after 14 years at the helm of the athletics department. This news came as a surprise to everyone, including Doug. So let's have him tell you the story of why he's leaving, what the transition looks like, and the future for both him and Dragon Athletics as we part ways. Here's our always #FiredUp Athletics Director…Doug Peters.
We've got a long show for you today as we're joined by head football coach Steve Laqua who will not only break down this year's class of 2021 coming to the Dragon Family…but also give us some insight in how you determine needs without a season and recruit during COVID. For a full list of recruits, highlights, and coach comments on each signee…go to MSUMDragons.com/NSD21…Now, Let's get into signing day with head coach Steve Laqua
Here's a special BONUS podcast episode not just because you're an amazing Dragons fan who has subscribed to the podcast and shared it with all your friends…but also because today is National Girls and Women in Sports Day. Such an important moment to celebrate, reflect, and focus our efforts for equity in the games we play. Who better to discuss the topic than head women's basketball coach AND now Senior Woman Administrator…Karla Nelson.
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is More Than a Game…I'm your host Jon Webbie Wepking. That's right, 2020 is almost over and that means it's time to celebrate. Not because this horrible year with murder hornets and COVID is finally ending…but because that means we get to celebrate 17 student-athletes who will be graduating from MSUM and we will soon be seeing the Dragons returning to competitions in 2021! Here to recap the last, tease the next, and talk lessons of leadership along the way…here's AD Doug Peters.
Sometimes sports creates unfathomable joy, and sometimes it can be downright despicable. Sports are littered with story after story of overcoming adversities and proving people wrong…and we're going to add two today. Both very different…one showing scars on over 30% of his body from a fire he experienced as a kid…the other, brought to tears today for how she was bullied after Anemia slowed her down. And then COVID took away a first season and a comeback season for both…has run through their families…and they start training again throughout it all because someone at MSUM believes there is greatness in them. Please welcome today's guests…Amelio Chio and LaKyla Yazzie.
Last week, as COVID cases in our region swelled to global comparisons…Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued a new executive order for all Minnesotans with new mandates to help lower the rising hospital occupancy rates, slow the spread, and fight this deadly pandemic. How does that impact the plan for the Dragons to safely compete in 2021, what conversations are happening in the NSIC with 5 very different states planning to play each other in just over a month, and why not brighten up the show with what we're thankful for in this insane 2020. Here's my conversation with AD Doug Peters!
How does a familiar face help create a new home?
Coach Kopietz is gonna love this episode because two of her rock-star student-athletes from the Dragon Soccer team are our guests today. They were connected before MSUM because they played on the same club team in Illinois, but BOTH followed coach up to MSUM to create their careers…and now their lives as they have become upperclassmen and team leaders. BUT HOW DOES THAT HAPPEN? What made MSUM more than a game for them? The answer…in part…was each other. Here's today's guests…Kaylee Parsons and Lauren Phillips.
What does Dragon Volleyballer Amanda Carlson say helps her stay positive so far away from home and throughout this crazy COVID era?
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM dragons podcast where we believe the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is more than a game…I'm your host Jon Webbie Wepking.
Now, mental health was a top concern before all the COVID stuff came in and multiplied it by…I dunno, like…1000. I know MSUM and the Care Team here do incredible work…we also know some of the best help when the unknown and challenging moments in life hit is the support system of people around us. After moving across the country to play volleyball at MSUM and losing this fall to COVID. Junior Amanda Carlson has adjusted to sub-zero temperatures, deep snow, and the uncertainties of this fall with a smile on her face. How does she do it? Find out how…right…now...
Have you ever sat in the stands or watched a game from home and just didn't feel connected to what was happening?
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is More than a Game AND WORTH INVESTING IN! I'm your host Jon Webbie Wepking. Sorry for yelling but TODAY is MSUM Giving Day and for one day and one day ONLY…your donations can be doubled or win big bucks for your cause through challenges today. A big day no doubt where over $80,000 in matching funds are available for you to give a little and make a much bigger impact. To talk about why he gives, why Giving Day is an opportunity you can't miss out on, and why he's a sore loser…here's our own #FIREDUP AD Doug Peters!
How are spring sports feeling the pain of the fall shutdown and on the bright side…what lessons can you take from the loss of not one, but two seasons?
We've paid a lot of attention lately, and understandably so, to the Fall season sports who most recently lost their entire seasons…but there's another loss we haven't discussed. Spring season sports like Softball are losing valuable events this Fall as well from their non-championship seasons. To share her perspective on the value of that lost segment of their season and just getting to know one of the outstanding leaders within Dragon Athletics…please welcome our guest today Dragon Softball's Captain, SAAC President, and Pre-Med major Kaiya Sundeen.
When will we know if we're playing Winter sports at MSUM this season? And how is all this impacting current athletes and even recruiting new athletes?
If you remember the Fall…there was a lot of will we, won't we conversations…where are those same conversations at right now for getting started on a winter season? What are we doing to prepare for any of the situations that could come out of that…and of course…how is all this affecting our current and future Dragons?! I'm firing all of those questions to the always #FiredUp AD Doug Peters…right…now!
What is the greatest play in Dragon Football history?
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast I'm your host Jon Webbie Wepking. We've been working hard making a new TV show called THE DRAGON WAY…and you may not have seen it yet, but it's pretty interesting to hear Coach Laqua and his players and coaches discuss stories from some of their greatest games of the past decade. Arguably the greatest play in Dragon football history…and it'd be hard to argue against it…was the hail-mary tip-pass against Concordia St. Paul back in 2013. We had Coach Laqua, assistant coaches Wade Youngblom and Abe Roehrich who were both players at the time, as well as alumni Adam Jiskra and the man who made that catch, Cory Ambrose were are our guests this week on the show…which airs this Tuesday at 6:30pm on WDAY XTRA and on the Dragons Digital Network.
This week's show covers the 2013 U-Mary Paddle Game…BUT having those guys together in one place…we had to re-watch the highlights from the Miracle Catch game together after the show was over…so here's some fun bonus coverage from THE DRAGON WAY.
WHY Can some DI school play sports, High School can play Sports…but DII and MSUM Can't?! And what are we doing without games?
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast I'm your host Jon Webbie Wepking. It's painful to watch others play and you can't…So we brought in AD Doug Peters to help us understand how some can play and others can't AND when you can't play…what is there to do? Are we just sitting around with our feet up? We'll talk about those questions right now in the MSUM Dragons Podcast!
How important are Athletic Trainers in the COVID era of sports and why do they have some of the deepest connections to student-athletes here at MSUM?
Our guest today is the always super-fabulous MSUM Head Athletic Trainer Andy Scott talking about Shutdown to workouts, how it’s going now that all sports are able to workout, and why the relationships between our athletic training staff and student-athlete here at MSUM are some of the most powerful of their experience. He’s my chat with the one and only Andy Scott!
How do you balance an insane schedule and still perform at the highest level all while giving back and taking care of yourself? Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons podcast where we believe that the student athlete experience here at MSUM is more than a game…I’m your host Jon Webbie Wepking. We’re going to talk to a Dragon today who balances being a split-season athlete, a job, volunteering, leadership group, a committed relationship, her own mental and physical health, and all while earning the highest GPA in her sport in the entire NSIC not once, but two years in a row…maybe three…I know I’m rooting for her. Let’s learn from Dragons golfer and professional life juggler…Jill Safranski.
How do you balance the crazy schedule and high-stress job of being a college head coach while your all four of your kids are athletes as well? Probably should’ve had Jenni on the show to give me the real deal of how it all works…but because of father’s day last weekend we have a father-daughter pair of DRAGONS for you today. Head men’s basketball coach Chad Walthall, and his daughter Brooke Walthall who will be a sophomore on the Dragon Volleyball team. We dive into topics like how to coach your own kids, how to still coach when you maybe don’t know much the sport, and how growing up around MSUM and now becoming a Dragon has changed the family dynamic in the Walthall household. Please give a warm welcome to our guests today, TEAM WALTHALL.
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is more than a game. I’m your host Jon Webbie Wepking…WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR PROGRAM…and what are some tips to get re-connected if you’ve been working on you and your life for a while and want to re-connect? What does connection look like from a coach perspective and does it matter to the current athletes? Our guests today…yes I said guests with an S…AD Doug Peters, Football Quarterback Jakup Sinani, and Head Women’s Basketball Coach Karla Nelson dive into those questions and even find some time to talk golf and marbles. Yes, marbles. Have listen to this week’s LIVE #FiredUp Lunchcast!
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is more than a game. I’m your host Jon Webbie Wepking and today we’re still rolling our #FiredUp Lunchcast…where Doug and I discussed THE hot topic…THERE ARE DRAGONS IN NEMZEK AGAIN!!! Find out what it takes for athletes to get back to voluntary workouts and how the first few days are going. This discussion went down during our weekly #FiredUp Lunchcast…if you don’t know what that is, please go visit MSUMDragons.com/Lunchcast…but here’s the gist…Me, Doug, guests, & your questions LIVE on Zoom and Facebook. Join us next week…which will be THURSDAYS AT NOON. Again, MSUMDragons.com/Lunchcast. WE”RE BACK, Find out how and what this fall looks like with our live #FiredUp LUNCHCAST!
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is more than a game…Today’s episode is full of hard conversations and great questions as we held another live podcast today called our #FiredUp Lunchcast…as you’ll hear today, we dive into some pretty hot topics like COVID and dropping sports, Doug shares re-entry plans and timeline for starting fall workouts, as well as a conversation about Black Lives Matter and what we can do in Dragon Athletics to make change real for our athletes. Plan on every Thursday at noon to join AD Doug Peters, special guests, and I for a live conversation about everything Dragons and more…Here’s our conversation this week recorded live and in it’s entirety in our first #FiredUp Lunchcast.
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience is more than a game…I’m your host Jon Webbie Wepking but serving as more of a guide for today’s episode…which was our first LIVE episode!!! Well, this is the recording from the live show…unedited in it’s entirety. Our goal was to invite student-athletes to ask Athletic Director Doug Peters Questions on their minds right now as well as giving Doug the opportunity to check in with them. If you missed the LIVE show and are crushed you missed such a great opportunity…you’re in LUCK! We’re going live on Zoom and Facebook next Thursday at noon for our #FiredUp Lunchcast! Just go to MSUMDragons.com/Lunchcast to register or simply visit the MSUM Dragons Page at noon on Thursday and watch there. With that…let’s listen to the first LIVE Student-Athlete Q&A with AD Doug Peters.
HOW DO YOU REACP THE 2019-20 SEASON for Dragon Athletics…that’s what AD Doug Peters is going to try to do in under 15minutes during this, our final episode of the MSUM Dragon Podcast for the academic year. Please don’t cry…I’ll miss you too. BUT we’re not done!!! Today, the day before Spring Commencement day…we recap the season with our guest…AD Doug Peters!
Hello everyone and welcome to part TWO of a special MSUM Dragons Podcast double-feature of our 2019-20 ATHLETES OF THE YEAR which were announced yesterday afternoon. This episode features our FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR…Julia Geske and how she is making history by putting Tennis on the map of power programs for MSUM. This year, the team was undefeated until COVID ended her season…we’ll talk a little about that, and a lot about the season in which she earned her athlete of the year honors last spring. She went 13-5 overall, 9-2 in conference play in singles as well as being nationally ranked in doubles with partner Olivia Keelin ring 15-4 overall and 9-2 in conference matches. The team went 16-4 overall, 10-1 in the NSIC and advanced to the NSIC tournament championship match. Ladies and gentlemen…your 2019-20 MSUM FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR…Julia Geske.
Hello everyone and welcome to part one of a special MSUM Dragons Podcast double-feature of our 2019-20 ATHLETES OF THE YEAR which were announced yesterday…I don’t even need to tell you that we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is more than a game, you’ll be able to experience it right here in this series with our two award winners. First up, the MALE athlete of the year, Nadir Yusuf. Hear his reaction to this impressive honor, what it took to get there, and we even share some of our personal story to showcase why he is an Ambassador for MSUM in many many ways. He’s was an All-American in cross country including the fastest 10K time in school history. He won two meets and was third in the NSIC Championships…He also won two track championships, and two runner-up finishes as well. Ladies and gentlemen, your 2019-20 MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR…Nadir Yusuf…
Tomorrow was supposed to be the second annual MSUM Giving Day to support scholarships…but when the world moves in a different direction…you have to move with it or get left behind. What we did last year is not just a bad practice…it’s not even possible. This is a hard time for all of us. Our MSUM Alumni Foundation is moving the day MSUM Giving Day, but the world is moving to another global campaign on the event’s originally schedule day called #givingtuesdaynow…and MSUM Is joining the cause. But why with all the campaigns out there right now, would someone want to give to MSUM scholarships…If you have the ability to give right now, how can you get the most for your donation? And how can YOU transform someone’s life this week? Today’s guest will tackle those question as she head’s up the #givingtuesdaynow and Giving Day efforts for MSUM…Please welcome to the show, Director of the Annual Fund for the MSUM Foundation…Cindy Bailey.
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is more than a game, I’m your GUEST Jon Webbie Wepking. Why would I jump to the other side of the interview…and who could possibly fill the massive void my incredible hosting skills would leave behind? Well…there’s a huge campaign happening right now on all of our Dragons Digital Network and our GO! TEAM is behind the scenes and not only deserves the praise for doing a great job…but it’s also interesting how COVID changed the banquet to what it is now and why we’re doing it the way we are. And as far as HOSTING…you’ll just have to live with AD Doug Peters asking the questions and not talking so much…hey, that actually sounds like pretty good deal! Let’s jump in with our host for today, Athletics Director Doug Peters and special guest…Jon Webbie Wepking!
What’s it like to be a coach in the COVID era of college athletics? Well…our guest today is not only a coach, she’s a professor and a mom adjusting to a new way of doing all of it at once. Something I think we can all relate to right now. I’m FIREDUP to welcome our guest today, head soccer coach Christie Kopeitz.
What does the FY22 budget mean for Dragon Athletics?
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM Is more than a game….I’m your host, Jon Webbie wepking. Today’s episode is about the B-word….not the one made popular by Meredith Brooks back in 1997...I’m talking about the one commanding the attention of the entire MSUM community…BUDGET…yeah I said it. It’s the topic of our episode today as MSUM announced proposed budget reductions for fiscal year 2022 to steer a $6M deficit back on track. Specifically we will talk about how the budget is impacting Dragon Athletics, a look inside how the process unfolded, and what still lies ahead in a COVID uncertain future. Let’s get started and welcome our socially distant guest today, AD Doug Peters.
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is more than a game, I’m your host Jon Webbie Wepking. My apologies for the week off last week, got hit hard by a the flu and strep throat and could barely talk all week. BUT, feeling great today and ready to tackle topics like how our athletes are growing at home, what are some of the biggest challenges their facing to continue to train, and what are some possible long-term concerns about when we do get back to game days once again? I’m definitely FiredUp for our guest whose team is supporting our student-athletes physically and mentally during our new socially distant normal….here’s Head Strength and Conditioning Coach…Travis Anderson.
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUMDragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM Is more than a game. I’m your host and guest this week…it’s just Me, Jon Webbie Wepking. Sitting here at home in the makeshift basement office with my desk in the closet because the backdrop for zoom meetings is better. Hopefully it sounds okay to you since it’s like talking in an elevator right now. BUT…do not mistake my location for inactivity. There is much to do during the COVID quarantine in Dragonland and today I’d like to talk about some of things people are doing around the world and within athletics to create, engage, and stay in touch with humanity. As our episode with Doug last week was titled, this Pandemic is More than a game…we need to take it seriously, no doubt…but how can we also make the best of it? Because that’s all we can do…make lemonade, chicken salad, or whatever food I have to mention so I don’t swear on-air.
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is more than a game, I’m your host Jon Webbie Wepking. The past week has those words, MORE THAN A GAME in the forefront of our minds. We sat down at this time last week to celebrate #DragonsMarchOn and the next day everything was cancelled because of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Here we are today, no march madness, no NBA, no championships, no spring season…the loss is painful doubt. Why is it important to shut everything down, how do you keep up when things are changing every day, how do you lead during a crisis, and what does the future of Dragon athletic look like at the end of this process? Let’s get the answers to those questions now with our own AD Doug Peters.
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons podcast where we believe that THE MONTH OF MARCH is more than a game…which is what we’re talking about today, I’m your host Jon Webbie Wepking and please adjust your volume once again for my most frequent guest AD Doug Peters as we discuss the genesis of our DRAGONS MARCH ON CAMPAIGN back in 2015, why we do it, and why it’s helped us deliver our more than a game promise. So let’s tee it up for Mr. Fired Up…and all of our great things about DRAGONS MARCH ON!
VIDEO OF INTERVIEW: https://youtu.be/iuL9dXWcWVg
POT HOLE VIDEO: http://bit.ly/2vFWWTu
PILLOW FIGHT: http://bit.ly/2TFjzzz
MUSIC: https://spoti.fi/38qagJ5
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that sports here at MSUM are more than a game. I’m your host Jon Webbie Wepking and this week’s guest is a creative mind on the floor and off…he’s had over a million views on one video this year AND a giant bat-flippin beat-down with a pillow. He makes music in his spare time with his roommates when he isn’t putting in work in the gym getting up shots and of course doing homework...After talking with him you can easily see that producer’s mind at work and he’s just as creative on the floor and never takes a play off. Today we’ll talk the power of sports in creating relationships and how those relationships have led to some memorable moments on and off the court. Here’s my interview with Gavin Baumgartner.
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUM Dragons Podcast where we believe that the student-athlete experience here at MSUM is MORE THAN A GAME…I’m your host Jon Webbie Wepking. Last episode featured a great cause and personal story from Colton Cook, post-interview…I asked him if he knew anyone on Dragon Athletics who would be a great guest for our podcast and IMMEDIATELY threw out Madison PaIge of Dragon Softball. And after my conversation with her…I absolutely know why…time for you to find out. Here’s my interview with MADISON PAIGE!
Today our guest not only has an incredible story of conquering his own adversities, he is also leading a team of fellow athletes helping an important legacy carry on. Colton Cook is not only an student-athlete, he’s a leader of fellow athletes on the student-athlete advisory committee, serves others through his work with many causes, and he’s an amazing singer too. Today, he will talk to us about MSUM’s involvement with the It’s a Slam Dunk, Don’t Drive Drunk campaign this weekend AND share his story of several career ending injuries, finding joy after losing that part of his life, being a leader and advocate for others, and where his leadership roots came. He’s an amazing young man, but don’t take my word for it…here’s my interview with Colton Cook.
VIDEO - https://youtu.be/sdmYEcIvspM
Hello everyone and welcome to the MSUMDragons Podcast where we believe that College athletics here at MSUM are more than a game. I’m your host Jon Webbie Wepking…A warning before we begin, please turn your volume knob down because our always #FiredUp Athletics Director Doug Peters is back on the podcast today…just kidding, I cleaned all that up for you. Topic today is February 5th 2020…some of you know that day as FB signing day…we’ll discuss how it’s changed over the last few years, how this year went, and some of what goes into planning and defining success…Other may know that it was also National Girls and Women in Sports day. How do you balance the two big events in one day to maximize their impact? We’re gonna talk about it…back again it’s the Doug and Webbie show…right NOW!!!
Last episode featured moments that stood out during the 23 years behind the microphone for Steve d’Eustachio….the one that stood out the most was a hug from Men’s Basketball’s Jared Bledsoe…who is our guest today. Jared is now connected to MSUM in so many ways. An athletics Alum, our TV color commentator, and now Admissions Counselor at MSUM. What’s his side of that memorable moment, why did he go to and stay at MSUM, and what is it like to invite others to be students your alma mater. Let’s get started with the guy who can dunk on you and help you get admitted…a proud Dragon…Jared Bledsoe!
There are rare a folk here in Dragonland who have been around longer and seen more games than our guest today, the voice and now face of the Dragons, Steve d’Eustachio. It was Appreciate a Dragon day last week at MSUM and I chose to bring Steve in to stop and appreciate the moments he’s seen, the people he’s met, and to show him how much we appreciate his over 2 decades of Dragons coverage both at home and away. Here’s my colleague and friend…Steve “I’m not quirky, you’re quirky” D’Eustachio.
How do lessons in sports translate to real life? Why are sports a valuable lens to learn about people? Why are some of the best relationships created through sports?
Asst. AD and Adjunct Professor of Sports Communication Jon "Webbie" Wepking talks about the big lessons from a semester of podcasting and the big questions from it.
Can social media and school staff have an impact on your football career? According to Part 2 of our interview with head football coach Steve Laqua it absolutely can. "Your character follows you everywhere," see wha the means by that and how he finds recruits that are a fit for Dragons Football as we rush towards February’s Signing Day. We’ll talk about the ideal recruit for MSUM, the things being said in the living room with parents and players, recruiting don’t for potential athletes, and how the front office at the school could make or break your chances at MSUM. We’ll end with LEADERSHIP, how Laqua leads his team, his coaches, and himself.
Once upon a time, Steve Laqua considered quitting coaching football. Hear his coaching journey to MSUM and how he balances a large family and his football program, how they have intertwined throughout his life, and how he changed the story of Dragon Football from a struggling team to a bowl game and knocking on the door of the playoffs.
Karla Nelson, Doug Peters, and Megan Hintz share how the amazing and impactful gift of scholarships creates opportunities for much more than the recipients.
You’ve heard tons about Dragon women’s basketball this season with the Area Woman Article with Karla Nelson, pre-season player of the year Megan Hintz, NDSU transfer Sarah Jacobson joining the team, and hey…why not also throw in a Documentary on last season at the Fargo Theatre?! Those moments stand out, but there are several other standouts that haven’t gotten the microphone yet who are integral to the success and culture of this program…like today’s guest…6’2” junior guard Brooklyn Liegel. After big moments in last year’s tournament run, Brooklyn is stepping in nicely into a starting role but is also one of the key culture players on the team as well. Here’s my interview with Brooklyn Liegel.
Nadir Yusuf just took 14th place (All-American) at the 2019 NCAA Cross Country Championships in Sacramento, CA. He talks about his race plan, doing something that hasn't been done in 51 years, and how he runs for others. Check out the video of this interview here - https://youtu.be/OoHH0YFaizw
Jon & Doug talk about what they're thankful for before the Thanksgiving holiday and talk about Nadir Yusuf, Nick Ecklund, WBB in Hawaii, and the opportunities to do what we love to do @MSUMDragons.
Jon & Doug talk about the Moorhead vs Moorhead night where the Dragons faced the Cobbers in men's basketball...but the Moorhead Fire Department also took on the Moorhead Police Department in a halftime basketball...we'll call it a game. The fun we have at games is MORE THAN A GAME at MSUM. Watch the video of today's podcast here - https://youtu.be/E5rT7U3D9to
Jon & Doug went to the MSUM Alumni Foundation Scholarship Luncheon and listen to students, faculty, coaches, and student-athletes talk about the power scholarships in-person with other donors. Listen to the recap of that event and EXCLUSIVELY for you DRAGONS podcast listeners, here is Megan Hintz's presentation - https://youtu.be/i-uAuR3PXcM
Conversation with Jon Wepking and Asst. AD for Compliance Jason Sobolick about the newest and hottest topic in the NCAA, the new rule exploring athletes benefitting from their image, name and likeness.
Jon Wepking and Doug Peters return to discuss their involvement with the MSUM Sports Communications Conference, how Dragon Athletics provides opportunities outside the lines, and how partnership with the University develops a winning team.
Athletics Director Doug Peters and Deputy Athletics Director Chad Markuson discuss last weekend's snowy situations and how it impacts getting games in when snow sticks to the ball and planes are grounded.
DRAGONS: NEW HEIGHTS a documentary of the most successful season in women's basketball history premiered last night at the Fargo Theatre. We caught up with the creator of the film, Sean Rice, to recap the event, the process of making the film, and how it almost didn't happen.
Gloria Riopelle and Doug Peters talk about the 2019 Hall of Fame process and the upcoming ceremony on Friday night!
Head soccer coach Christie Kopeitz talks about her Hall of Fame induction this year at UMC, how soccer has influenced her life and career, and how those lessons have helped her coach Dragons soccer to the best start in her career.
This episode is a presidential face-off with MSUM President Dr. Anne Blackhurst and MSUM Student Athlete Advisory Committee President Nadir Yusuf. These two talk about there roles as leaders, what legacy they'd like to leave at MSUM, and chicken tortilla soup.
Chad & Tom talk about some big project, upgrades, stats changes, and how they get ready for a new season of Dragon Athletics.
Doug & Jon talk about the new MSUM Dragons podcasts, why they work in sports, and behind the scenes happenings this week.