Raiders On The Record: Recent Episodes
Tim Haneberg
This is the official podcast of the Hastings High School (MN) athletic department. Hosted by AD Trent Hanson & Head Coach Tim Haneberg, Raiders on the Record features conversations with athletes, coaches, alumni, and sports experts in the Raiders network.
Tom DeSautel is originally from Fargo, North Dakota and moved to Hastings in 9th grade. Tom was a 2002 graduate of HHS and was a three sport athlete competing in football, basketball, and golf. In football, he was a three year letter winner and a member of three state tournament teams, helping lead the Raiders to the 2001 State Championship. In basketball, Tom was a three year letter winner while in golf, he was a four year letter winner, helping his team to multiple conference championships. After high school, Tom attended the University of North Dakota where he played football and helped lead the team to a final 8 appearance, two final four appearances, and a Division 2 National Runner up finish. Tom gives a tremendous interview where he talks about the amazing coaches he had during his time in Hastings and at UND along with many other topics such as failure and how sports has helped set him on the path for success in life.
Josh is originally from South St. Paul and Red Wing, Minnesota. In 2007, Josh was hired at Hastings High School and began his social studies teaching career. Throughout that time, he's coached a variety of sports, including football, hockey, and girls golf.
Josh gives a great interview where he really highlights the relationships teachers and coaches make with their student athletes.
Keagan McVicker is a junior at HHS and will be a 2025 Raider graduate. During her time at HHS, she has participated in soccer and basketball. In soccer, she is a two year varsity letter winner, All-Conference recipient, and captain of the team during her junior year. To date in basketball, she is a three year varsity letter winner, captain of the team during her sophomore year, two time All-Conference recipient, and Metro East Conference player of the year during her sophomore year. Keagan gives a great interview where she highlights her definition of success, coaches that have impacted her life, and teammates she has had that have allowed her to be a leader on the field and on the court.
Brooklyn and Reese Keller are juniors at HHS and will be 2025 Raider graduates. During their time at HHS, they have played tennis. Both Brooklyn and Reese are three time varsity letter winners, playing at all different positions such as 4 singles, 3 singles, 2 singles, and 1 doubles. During their sophomore and junior years, they qualified for the state tournament in doubles, becoming the first state qualifiers in tennis in about 20 years. Brooklyn and Reese give a great interview where they talk about the friendships sports have allowed them to make and the role sports have played in their lives.
Jed Carlson is a junior at HHS and will be a 2025 Raider Graduate. During his time at HHS, he has participated in basketball and soccer. Jed played basketball during his freshman year and has excelled in soccer each year in high school. During his freshman year, he played on the C-Squad and has been a varsity starter for the last three seasons and a captain during his junior year. Jed gives a great interview where he talks very highly of teammates that helped him improve in his leadership ability and coaches that have invested in his soccer skills and in life.
Haley Strain is a junior at Hastings HS and will be a 2025 Raider Graduate. During her time at HHS, she has participated in volleyball, basketball, and softball. To date in high school, she is a two year letter winner in volleyball and basketball. In softball, she is a three year letter winner and has been the starting pitcher for the team since the end of her 8th grade year. Haley gives a great interview where she talks about the importance of sports, coaches that have had a positive impact on her life, and the teammates that help her to excel in sports.
Coach John Dewall is originally from Lakeland, MN attending Stllwater HS. In high school, he was a three sport athlete competing in cross country, nordic skiing, and track and field. After high school, he attended UW-Madison where he continued his nordic skiing career. Throughout this time, Coach Dewall was instrumental in mainstreaming the rollerblade, going from coast to coast with demonstrations. At 22, he was hired at Hastings HS, teaching agricultural science classes. Throughout his 44 year career at Hastings, Coach Dewall has coached a variety of sports, mainly cross country, nordic skiing, and track and field. During this time, he has multiple state participants and individual state champions in cross country, nordic skiing, and track and field. In addition to the individual champions, he led the girls nordic team to 14 conference titles along with 8 section titles with a team state championship in 1992. On the boys side of nordic, he has coached 21 conference titles, 14 section championships, and a team state championship in 1989. Finally, he has multiple US National Team members such as Torry Kraftson, and two future Olympians in Lindsay Williams and Dan Campbell. Coach Dewall gives a great interview that highlights how success is measured and really highlights all the coaches and athletes he has worked with over his 44 year career.
John Majeski is a 2003 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he was a three sport athlete competing in football, hockey, and baseball. In football, he was a three year varsity letter winner and played a major role on defense and offense during his junior year leading the team to the 2001 State Champions. In hockey, John was a three year letter winner and helped the team to a 4th place finish during his sophomore year. Finally in baseball, John was a three year varsity letter winner. After high school, John attend NDSU where he was a four year starter on the football team starting on defense but then transitioning to offense. After high school, John became a team before transferring to sales. John gives a great interview where he talks very highly about his coaches and teammates he played with during his time at Hastings and the role that Hastings and sports have played in his life.
Coach Peter Schultz is a 2011 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he was a three sport athlete competing in football, basketball, and track and field. In football, he was a two year varsity letter winner and two time captain of the football team. In basketball and track, he was a multiple time varsity letter winner as well. After college, Peter realized that teaching was the right fit for him and luckily, he landed a teaching job in Hastings after already coaching football for a couple seasons. Coach Shultz gives an in depth interview where he highlights adversity he faced in high school, how he looked at practice every day, and gives a tremendous definition of what success looks like in his life in teaching and coaching.
Lukas Foss is a junior at Hastings High School and will be a 2025 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he has been a three sport athlete participating in football, basketball, and track and field. In Football, he is a two year letter winner, playing at the quarterback position, and has been named captain during his junior year. In basketball, Lukas is a two year letter winner and has been named captain during his junior year. Finally, Lukas is a thrower on the track and field team. Lukas gives a great interview where he defines success and how his definition of success is demonstrated in sports.
Eddie Peine is a senior at Hastings High School and will be a 2023 Raider graduate,. During his time at HHS, he has participated in hockey and baseball. In hockey, he is a two year varsity letter winner. In baseball, he is a three year varsity letter winner and captain of the team during his senior year. Eddie gives a great interview where he highlights many of the teammates and coaches who have invested their time and effort into him. Finally, Eddie talks about the importance of sports in his life and how having fun should be the main focus.
Coach Alex Zuzek is a 2014 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he was a two sport athlete, participating in basketball and tennis. In basketball, he was a two year letter winner. In tennis, Alex was a four year letter winner, competing in a variety of doubles and singles positions throughout the four years. During his senior year, he competed at the number 1 singles position, was voted captain of the team, was academic all-conference, and All-conference. In addition to sports, Alex was named the Triple A award winner for excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts. After high school, Alex attended St. Mary’s University in Winona where he competed in tennis and was named captain during his senior year. Alex gives a great interview where he talks about many of the teachers and coaches who had a positive impact on him throughout his high school career and helped mold him into the teacher and coach he is today.
Ellie Magnus is a freshman at HHS and will be a 2026 Raider graduate. Even though she just started her high school career, she has participated in three varsity sports; soccer, basketball, and track and field. In soccer and basketball, she is a one year varsity letter and helped the basketball team to a runner-up finish in the conference. In track and field, she is a two year letter winner, 2 time all-conference recipient, a two time state entrant in the 200 and 4x200, and set the school record in the 100m. Recently, she led a co-ed 4x400 team to a first place finish and track record at the Hamline meet. Even though Ellie just started her high school career, she brings a ton of insight to the role sports can play in one’s life.
Matthew Radke is a 2015 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he participated in hockey and golf. In hockey, Matthew was a 3 time varsity letter winner while playing the goalie position. In golf, Matthew was a 4 time varsity letter winner, helping his team qualify for the state tournament 3 times, leading to a 3rd place finish during his junior year. In addition to the team accomplishments, Matthew was All-State individually 3 times. After high school, he attended and played golf for the University of St. Thomas where he was a four year starter and three time captain. Matthew gives a great interview where he highlights the relationships sports can build and the friendships that result from that.
John Paul Vaith is a 2007 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he participated in cross country, wrestling, and track and field. In cross country, John was a three time letter winner and two time All-Conference recipient. In wrestling, he was a five time letter winner, four time state entrant, and a two time state place winner taking 4th his junior year and third his senior year. John also lead the wrestling team to a 2nd place finish during his senior year. Finally, in track and field, John was a multiple time All-Conference recipient along with being multiple time state entrant in the 800, 4x800, and 4x400, and All-State his senior year in the 4x800 and 4x400. In addition to sports, John participated in many choir events and plays and was all-state in choir his senior year which lead him being named the Triple A award winner. John gives an in depth interview where he goes into great detail about his coaches and teammates who helped shape him into the husband and father he is today.
Joe Zak is a 2018 Raider graduate.During his time at HHS, he participated in football, basketball, and tennis. In football and basketball, he was a two year varsity letter winner during his juniors and senior years. In tennis, Joe was a five time letter winner, two time All-Conference recipient, and captain during his senior season. After high school, Joe attended and graduated from UW-Claire and has now entered the work force. Joe gives an insightful interview that highlights focusing on the process constantly improving.
Emily Thuet is a junior at HHS and will be a 2024 Raider graduate. During her time at HHS she has participated in volleyball, hockey, and golf. In hockey, she is a two year letter winner and captain during her junior year. In golf, she is a one year letter winner playing mostly JV during her freshman and sophomore year. During the interview, Emily gives a great definition of success which is continuing after failure and not focusing on the wins or losses.
Lauren Jenkins is a junior at HHS and will be a 2024 Raider graduate. During her time at HHS, she has participated in swimming and softball. In swimming, she is a 5 time letter winner, 5 time all-conference recipient, all-state honorable mention in the 200m free relay, and led her team to five conference championships. In softball, she is a 5 time letter winner and named all-section during her 9th and 10th grade year. Lauren gives a great interview where she talks about the role family has played in her sports life.
Samantha Schorzman is a 2015 Raider graduate. During her time at HHS, she participated in soccer and basketball. In soccer, she was a three year letter winner, three time all conference recipient, two time captain, and All-State her senior year. In basketball, Samatha was a four year letter winner, three time All-Conference, two time captain, and lead her team to two conference championships. After high school, she attended Augiustana and played soccer for one semester before transferring to St. Ben’s where she played soccer for one year. Samatha is currently in medical supplies sales and living in Boston, MA. Samantha gives a great interview, where she goes into detail about how living and representing the town of Hastings has a positive impact on her life.
Erica McKenzie is a 2004 Raider graduate. During her time at HHS she was a two sport athlete, competing in hockey and golf. In hockey, she was a five time letter winner racking up All-State honors and was voted Ms. Hockey during her senior year. In golf, Erica was a six time letter winner, six time state qualifier, and state champion during her senior year. After college, she attended the University of MInnesota where she won the NCAA championship during her freshman year. After college, Erica was on the US National Team until she tore her MCL. Erica currently works for the Minnesota Wild in the ticketing sales and service department. Erica gives a great interview where she goes into great length about high school athletics and the role that playing and representing Hastings had in her life.
Austin Eliason is a 2009 Rosemount High School grad. During high school, he played soccer, basketball, and track and field. After high school, he was recruited to run track and field at MSU-Mankato. During college, Austin was a two time captain, running the 400 and 200, while racking up four All-Conferences awards. After college, Austin became an elementary school teacher in Rochester for 3 years before coming to Hastings. During his time in Hastings, Austin has coached the B-squad boys basketball team and been an assistant track and field coach. Austin gives a great interview with especially great advice for athletes dealing with injuries and how to truly love the role that sports can play in their lives.
Payton Burow is a senior at HHS and will be a 2023 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he has participated in football and track and field. In football, he is a three year letter winner, playing at the running back position. During his senior year, he racked up an All-District and Special Teams player of the year awards. In Track and Field, he is a three year varsity letter winner, taking 1st in the conference in the 4x100 during his sophomore year and winning the 4x100 and 4x200 during his junior year. Payton plans to attend Valley City State University next season where he will play football as well. Payton gives a tremendous interview where he ends with great advice for parents, coaches, and student-athletes.
Alex Hendrickson is a junior at HHS and will be a 2024 raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he has played hockey and baseball and earned his varsity letter last season in baseball. On the baseball team, he plays 2nd base, shortstop, and pitches. Alex talks about how he lives his favorite saying of “Dreams don’t work unless you do.” Alex gives a great interview where he talks a lot about being a role model for younger athletes. Even though he is only a junior, Alex committed to the University of St. Thomas where he will play baseball.
Michael Johnson is a senior at HHS and is a 2023 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he has participated in Tennis. Michael lost his 9th grade year due to Covid and since then, has earned three varsity letters while playing doubles, 2nd singles, and now 1st singles. During his senior year, Michael has been a member of the Leadership Council which he attributes a large amount of his success ability in leading younger athletes. Michael gives a great interview about what it means to be a high school athlete and especially how special it is in Hastings. Michael plans to attend St Marys in Winona where he will play tennis.
Ian Pepple is a senior at HHS and is a 2023 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he has participated in football and wrestling. In football, he is a two year letter winner. In wrestling, Ian has been a captain during his senior year, is a four year letter winner, has been part of four state tournament teams taking 6th last season, and is a two time individual state qualifier. Ian goes into great depth about his high school career and how injuries and set backs have played a large role in his success as an athlete.
Rachael Notch is a sophomore at HHS and will be a 2025 Raider graduate. During her time at HHS she has participated in volleyball, basketball, and softball. In volleyball, she has played on the 9th grade team and JV. In basketball, she is a two-year varsity letter winner. Finally in softball, Rachael played on the JV last season. Rachael gives a great interview where she talks about he value sports can play in one’s life.
Jeff Taffe is a 1999 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he participated in hockey and baseball. In hockey, he was a three time letter winner and lead the team to a 5th place finish during his junior year and a 2nd place finish during his senior year. He was also named Mr. Minnesota for hockey during his senior year. In baseball, Jeff was a three year letter winner, leading the team to a state title during his senior year. After graduation, he attended the University of Minnesota for three years, where he started for the Gopher hockey team, and lead them to a National Title during his junior year. After college, Jeff had a long professional career lasting 17 years. Throughout that time, he played in Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Chicago, and Minneapolis, and was on the practice squad when the Pittsburgh Penguins won the Stanley Cup in 2009. Jeff eventually played overseas in Sweden and Russia before retiring.
Kyra Erickson is a junior at HHS and will be a 2024 Raider graduate. During high school, she has been a three sport athlete participating in soccer, hockey, and lacrosse. In soccer and hockey, she has been a two year letter winner, earning All-Conference Honorable Mention in hockey during her sophomore year. In lacrosse, Kyra is a three year varsity letter winner. Kyra gives a great interview where she goes into depth about the coaches and teammates who have guided her along her sports journey.
Jolie Pettit is a junior at HHS and will be a 2024 Raider graduate. During her time at HHS, she has participated in volleyball, alpine ski, wrestling, and track and field. In volleyball, she is a one year varsity letter winner. In alpine ski, Jolie has been a two time varsity letter winner and a state qualifier during her sophomore year. In track and field, she throws shot put and is a two time letter winner and took 3rd in the conference last season. Finally, Jolie started wrestling during her junior year. Jolie gives a great interview where she talks about her definition of success and the important role sports can play in one’s life.
Blake Vandehoef is a junior at HHS and will be a 2024 Raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he has participated in football, hockey, baseball, and golf. In football, he earned a varsity letter this past season starting on the defense as a safety. In hockey, he is a two year letter winner. Finally, after playing baseball most of his career, he switched to golf last season but will go back to baseball this year. Blake gives a great interview where he talks a lot about his coaches and teammates who have had a positive impact on his athletic career and personal life.
Owen Bernatz is a junior at Hastings High School and will be a 2024 Raider graduate. During high school, he participated in basketball and track and field. In basketball, he is a two year letter winner and was All-Conference honorable mention during his sophomore year while averaging 15 points per game. He also made the MN Fury AAU team after his sophomore year. Owen talks about the work he has put into his sport and how it has lead him to success while he gives great advice for parents, coaches, and student athletes.
Taylor Reiners is a 2009 Raider graduate. During high school she was a three sport athlete, competing in tennis, hockey, and softball. In tennis, she was a 5 time varsity letter winner, playing #1 single during all her years of high school. Taylor was a 2 time captain and state qualifier her senior year, taking 6th at the state tournament. In hockey, Taylor was a 5 time varsity letter winner, 2 time all conference recipient, and captain during her senior year. Finally, in softball, Taylor was a multiple time varsity letter winner. After college, she attended Syracuse University before transferring back to the University of Minnesota. Throughout the interview, Taylor discusses many of the coaches, teammates, and teachers that had a positive impact on her life as a student and as an athlete.
Amber ‘Wirth’ Holmstadt is a 2022 Raider graduate. During high school, she was a four sport athlete, competing in soccer, cross country, basketball, and track and field. In soccer, Amber played during her 9th-11th grade year earning two varsity letters before switching to cross country her senior year, earning a varsity letter there as well. In basketball, Amber was a 4 year varsity letter winner, 4 time All-Conference recipient, and earned 2 All-State honors. In track and field, Amber was a multiple time letter winner and All-conference recipient, while helping the team win the conference championship during her sophomore year. After college, she attended LIU- Brooklyn where she played basketball and was a 4 year starter. Amber brings a ton of knowledge and experience to the interview along with tremendous advice for out athletes, parents, and coaches.
John Teigland is a junior at Hastings High School. During his time at Hastings, he has competed in football, hockey, and baseball. In football, he has been a two year letter winner play center. In hockey and baseball, he is a one year letter winner, which will increase as he continues on through high school. John has great takes on the role that sports and team work can play in one's life with great advice for parents, coaches, and student athletes.
Elliot Wilcox is a 2010 Raider graduate. During high school, he was a member of the swim and dive team where he was a 6 time varsity letter winner and 6 time all-conference recipient. Elliot was also a 6 time state qualifier, in a variety of relays or individual swimming events, and during his senior year, racked up accomplishments such as All-State, All-American, and set the school record in the 50 free. After high school, he attended UND where he won freshman swimmer of the year and still holds top 10 times in multiple events. After two years at UND, Elliot transferred to UW-River Falls where he entered the health and wellness field. Elliot is still very active today, where he trains and competes in triathlons.
Danny Welch is a 1999 Raider graduate. During high school, he was a three sport athlete competing in football, hockey, and baseball. In football, he was a 3 year varsity letter winner, while earning All-Conference and All-State accolades while leading the team to the state tournament during his junior year. In hockey, Danny was a 3 year varsity letter winner, again earning All-Conference and All-State honors, while leading the team to the state tournament during his junior and senior years. In his junior year, the hockey team won the consolation bracket and took 2nd place during his senior year. Danny was also named Metro player of the year and runner up for Minnesota Mr. Hockey during his senior year. In baseball, he was a 3 year varsity letter winner and lead the team to a state title during his senior year. After high school, Danny attended the University of Minnesota where he played hockey as well. During his sophomore year, the Gophers won the National Championship. Danny also played for a UHL team based in Omaha, NE, the LA Kings AHL team, and professionally for a variety of teams throughout Europe. Throughout the interview, Danny talks about the coaches and teammates he had throughout his playing career and credits them for a large amount of the success he had.
EC Atkins is a junior at Hastings HS and will be a 2024 Raider graduate. During her time at HHS, she has competed in cross country, nordic skiing, and track and field. In cross country, she is currently a four time letter winner. In nordic skiing, she is currently a three time letter winner. EC is a multiple time All-Conference recipient and will be a three time captain by her graduation. Finally, in track in and field she is a two time letter winner, losing a season due to covid. She is a two time All-Conference honorable mention in the 400 and 800. Since EC is only a junior and entering the winter season, her varsity letters and accomplishments will only increase. Throughout the interview, EC brings a great energy and insight to the world of high school athletics.
Coach Joe Rabaey is a 2013 Raider graduate. During HS, he competed in Cross Country, Nordic Skiing, and Track and Field. After graduation, he attended St. Johns University where he competed in cross country and track and field. Joe caught the coaching bug early and started coaching at Hastings as a volunteer coach and is now the head cross country coach, head nordic ski coach, and assistant track and field coach. Joe’s passion for sports and the impact that Hastings had on him bursts through in this interview while he has great advice for coaches, parents, and student athletes.
Eric Ellingworth is originally from Redwood Falls, MN and comes from a family of educators with his mom being a long time English teacher and father, who was the superintendent of the Redwood school distinct for 27 years. During high school, he participated in football, basketball, and track and field, where he was All- state his senior year.. After graduation, he attended Augustana University where he competed in football. Eric taught and coached for one year in Sioux Falls, SD and then 3 years at Hastings High School where he taught Civics and coached varsity football, MS track, and 9th grade girls basketball. Eric then became a football grad assistant for three seasons at the University of Florida before working for the New York Jets. For the last four years, Eric has been a college scout for the Dallas Cowboys, where he currently works. Eric brings a unique perspective from coaching sports at the MS level all the way to being part of the NFL and has great insight into the importance of coaches and mentors in one’s life.
Adam Gerlach is a 2000 Raider Graduate. During his time at Hastings High School, Adam was a three sport athlete competing in football, hockey, and baseball. In football, he was a three time letter winner, multiple time all-confer recipient, and All-State his senior year. The football team were state finalists during his senior year and compiled a 34-4 record during his three years on varsity. In hockey, Adam rotated between the JV and varsity during his freshman year and was full time on the varsity team during his final three years. During that time, his hockey team was a state qualifier during his 10th grade year, took 2nd his 11th grade, and 3rd his senior year. Again, Adam was a multiple time all-conference recipient and All-State in hockey. In Baseball, Adam was a three year letter winner, multiple time all-conference athlete, and All-State his senior year. During his junior year, the baseball team won the state championship.
After high school Adam played Junior hockey in Dubuque, Iowa and after one season, attended MSU-Mankato where he played hockey as well. Since graduating from college, Adam has coached over 20 years of youth sports and competed multiple times in the Red Bull Crashed Ice events. During his first year competing, he placed top 4 and was invited to be a member on Team USA but had to decline.
Many consider Adam to be the best athlete to ever come from Hastings and is one of the few three sport All-State athletes in our history. Adam’s high school career, post high school career, and years of youth sports give Adam an insight into sports few others have.
Briana ‘Featherstone’ Aarness is a 1997 Raider graduate. During her time at HHS, she competed as a diver and set the school records for the 6 and 11 while also qualifying for the state tournament during her junior and senior years. Briana still holds the school record for the 11 dive. In 2011, diving was brought back to HHS and Briana was hired as the girls coach and both the boys and girls during the following year, where she has been since.
Ava McNamara is a 2023 Raider graduate. During her time at Hastings High School, she has participated on the girls swim and dive team. Ava is a 5 time varsity letter winner. She was a state qualifier during her sophomore year and qualified for four different events at the state tournament during her junior year in the 200 medley relay, 100 fly, 200 free relay, and the 100 breaststroke. At the state tournament, Ava took 2nd in the 100m fly. She is currently in her senior year and hopes to finish her year strong, meet her goals, and decrease her time. Ava has great advice for student athletes and talks about the great coaches and teammates she has been surrounded by during her career.
Coach Paul Armstrong is originally from Burnsville, where he grew up playing soccer, baseball, and basketball. He is a graduate of Burnsville High School where he competed in basketball and soccer. After high school, Paul attended Luther College where he played soccer. After graduating from college, Paul coached at the Shakopee Soccer Association, The Blake School, St. Paul Academy, and is now in his first year as the head coach of the girls soccer team.
Hanna ‘Norman’ Junker is a 2015 Raider graduate. During her time at HHS, she competed in soccer, basketball, and track and field. In Soccer, she was a 4 time letter winner, multiple time All-Conference recipient, and captain of the team. Hanna did not get to compete at the high school level during her junior year due to a MSHSL rules around club soccer. In Basketball, Hanna was a five time varsity letter winner, multiple time all-conference recipient, captain of the team, and scored over 1000 points during her career. Finally, she competed in track and field during her freshman year in the 400, 4x100, 4x400, and high jump. After high school, Hanna attended NDSU where she competed in soccer. At NDSU, Hanna played every position on the field, was named All-Summit team, played in 72 total games, and started in 69 games while racking up 9 goals. Hanna also joined the basketball team during his senior year. Hanna has great insight into the balance it requires to be a multi-sport athlete while competing at a high level.
Danny Millner is a senior at HHS and is a 2023 raider graduate. During his time at HHS, he has participated in football, soccer, hockey, and track and field. In football, he has played quarterback for a majority of his time and is a captain this year. Danny was able to play soccer his 10th grade year when Covid pushed football’s start time. In hockey, he has played at the JV and Varsity levels. Finally in track and field, he runs the 800 and 1600m races. Danny talks about how sports creates positive relationships, teaches life lessons, and is fun. He also has great advice for future athletes to believe in themselves, dream big dreams, and never give up.
Aaron Herber is a senior at HHS and is a 2023 Raider graduate. Throughout high school he has participated in numerous sports such as football from 9th-10th grade, Cross Country from 10th-12 grade, Alpine Ski from 7th-12th grade, and baseball from 9th-12th grade. Aaron has been All-conference in Alpine Skiing and a 4 time state qualifier. This year he hopes to qualify again and become all-state. Aaron has great insight into the positive roles coaches can play in an athlete's life.
Tom Fritze is a 2002 graduate of Eagan High School. He comes from a long line of coaches and educators and continued that trend by attending St. Thomas University, where he played football and majored in math education. Tom applied for a math position at Hastings HS in 2006 during the first day of the school year and was teaching in the classroom during the second day school. Tom has spent the last 17 years teaching and coaching at Hastings HS. He has recently transitioned into a different position as the Dean of Students and is entering his second year in that role. Tom is the Defensive Coordinator for the high school football team and works hard on instilling the values of integrity, work ethic, and a positive attitude on each of his athletes while infusing fun into everything they do.
Zack Benning is a 2014 Raider graduate. During his time at Hastings High School, he competed in cross country, hockey, baseball, nordic skiing, and track and field. In cross country, Zach was on JV during his 8th grade year and varsity from 9th-12th grade. He was a 3 year captain, 3 time state qualifier, and took 5th at the state tournament during his senior year. In hockey, Zach play Jr. Gold during his freshman year and JV his 10th grade year. In nordic skiing, Zach was a state qualifier during his 11th and 12th grade year. Zach also participated in baseball during his 9th grade year. Finally, Zach participated in track and field from 10th-12th grade where he was a state qualifier in the 4x800, 1 mile, 2 mile, and 4x400 while also placing at the state tournament with a 5th in the 1 mile, 2nd in the 2 mile, and 7th in the 4x400. Finally Zach set school records in the 4x800, 1 mile, and 2 mile. After high school, Zach attended UW-Madison where he participated in cross country and track and field. Zach has a great interview where he discusses the important role sports can play in someone's life and guide the path that they are on.
Lauren Hubbart is a senior at Hastings High School and is a 2022 Raider graduate. During her time at Hastings, she has been a three sport athlete playing soccer, hockey, and golf. In soccer, she was a 2 year varsity letter winner, earning All-Section her senior year. In hockey, Lauren was a 3 year varsity letter winner and during her senior year, she was captain, All-Conference, MVP of the team, and scored the most goals. Finally in golf, Lauren was a 6 year varsity letter winner, 3 time team captain, All-Conference honorable mention her junior year, and All-Section her senior year, and qualified for the state tournament during her senior year. Lauren plans to attend Gustavus University and major in nursing.
Autumn Adricula is a senior at Hastings High School. During her time at Hastings, she has competed in Cross Country and Track and Field. In Cross Country, she is a three year varsity letter winner, captain, and was All-Conference honorable mention during her junior year. In Track and Field, she is a four year varsity letter winner focusing mainly on the 800m race. Autumn plans to attend NDSU and major in radiology.
Jason Koch is a 2000 graduate of La Follete in Madison, WI. He comes from a family of educators with his mom and dad both being teachers and coaches. After graduating from SCSU, Jason began his 15 year teaching and coaching career at Hastings High School. He is a biology teacher, offensive coordinator for the football team, and is the head track and field coach. Jason has great insight into building relationships with athletes, his definition of success, and advice for parents, coaches, and student athletes.
Brady Zak is a senior at Hastings High School and is a 2022 Raider Graduate. During his time at Hastings High School, he has participated in basketball and tennis. Since his freshman year in high school, he has also helped as a manager for the football and basketball teams. For the last two seasons, Brady has played #1 singles on the tennis team.
Jake Harris is a senior at Hastings High School. During his time at Hastings, he participated in hockey and golf. In hockey, Jake is a three year varsity letter winner, was captain during his senior year, and scored over 100 points. In golf, he is a multiple time varsity letter winner. Jake plans to attend MSU-Mankato and major in law enforcement.
Connor Stoffel is a senior at Hastings High School and a 2022 Raider graduate. He has participated in hockey and baseball. He is a 3 year letter winner and a captain in both sports. During his time at Hastings, both sports have had tremendous success which Conner credits to our coaching staff and culture at Hastings.
Johnny Bezdicek is a junior at Hastings High School and will be a 2023 raider graduate. During his time at Hastings, he has participated in football and track and field. In football, he is a two year letter winner, playing wide receiver both seasons. In track and field, Johnny is a two year letter winner running numerous relays and the 100m and 200m runs. Recently, Johnny set the school record for the 200m with a time of 22.03 seconds and the 100m with 10.84 seconds.
Trent Vedders is a 2007 Raider graduate. During his time at Hastings High School, he was a three sport athlete participating in football, basketball, and baseball. Trent was a captain for each sport he played, demonstrating the leadership qualities he displayed on a daily basis. Trent was also All-State in baseball during his senior year and led the team to the state tournament in 2007, placing 6th. After high school, Trent played baseball at MSU-Mankato.
TJ Pottinger is a 2018 Raider graduate. During his time at Hastings High School, he participated in Football, Wrestling, and Lacrosse. In football, he was a 3 year varsity letter winner and a one time captain. In wrestling, TJ was a 6 time varsity letter winner, multiple time All-Conference recipient, and All-State his senior year taking 3rd place. In lacrosse, he was a 4 year varsity letter winner and All-State second team his senior year. After high school, TJ attended NDSU where he wrestled and was a pre-med major and is now applying to med schools across the country.
Dan Campbell is a 1996 Raider graduate. During high school, he competed in Cross Country and Nordic Skiing. In Cross Country, he was a 4 year varsity letter winner, 3 time all-conference, a section champion, and took 15th at the state tournament during his senior year. In Nordic Skiing, Dan was a 4 year letter winner, 4 time all-conference, 2 times region champ, and took 3rd at the state tournament during his junior and senior year. The Nordic team also qualified for the state tournament during his senior year. After high school, Dan got involved in the Bi-athalon and trained at Northern Michigan University. Throughout the next four years, Dan made a variety of teams and major competitions ultimately making the 2002 Bi-athalon Olympic team. Dan competed at the 2002 Olympic in Salt Lake City competing in the 20k individual race and the four person relay. Dan currently lives in Bozeman, Montana with his wife and two children.
Trey Rogers is a 2018 Raider graduate. Growing up, Trey moved around a lot and then landed in Hastings in 8th grade. During his high school career, Trey played football and wrestled. In football, he was a 3 year varsity starter playing line backer, full back, and quarter back. He was also a captain and named all-conference during his senior year. In wrestling, Trey was a four year starter and was all-state 3 times placing 4th, 2nd, and 1st. He was a multiple time captain and multiple time all-conference recipient. Trey currently attends Hoftra University where he wrestles and is a pre-med major. He was a Division 1 National Qualifier last year and will be soon applying to med schools.
Danielle ‘Welch’ Durow is a 2008 Raider graduate. During her time at Hastings HIgh School she was a three sport athlete competing in soccer, hockey, and golf. In soccer, she was a 4 year varsity letter winner playing goalie, was all-conference, all-state, and a captain during her junior and senior seasons. In hockey, she was a 6 year varsity letter winner, was all-conference, all-state, captain during her junior and senior year, and was a finalist for Minnesota Ms. Hockey. Finally in golf, she was a varsity letter winner during her 9th and 10th grade year. After graduating high school, she attended Boston College where she played hockey, was a 4 year starter, and competed in 3 frozen fours. After college, Danielle attended culinary school and currently is the head chef at Dan’s Bar.
Jeanne Kasel is a 1982 Raider graduate. Her coaching career started at Jan’s School of Dance, followed by gymnastics coaching at Perpetual Motion, and then began coaching gymnastics at Hastings High School in 2007 as the head coach. Jeanne preaches compassion and respect as a coach and uses these skills to positively impact her athletes on a daily basis. Jeanne uses her experiences as a coach and mother to give great advice to parents, coaches, and student-athletes.
Doug Plumb is a 2006 alum of Hastings High School, who was All-State in basketball and graduated as the school's all-time leading scorer. He played collegiately and professionally, worked for Nike North America, and is currently the head coach of the London Lightning professional basketball team in Ontario, Canada. Doug is renown for his one-of-a-kind work ethic that has led him to all corners of the basketball world including starting his own basketball academy. Athletes, coaches, and parents will find tons of wisdom in this episode!
Aaron Fox is a 1994 Raider graduate. After graduating high school, Aaron played two seasons for the junior hockey team, The Green Bay Gamblers, where they won the junior division during his second season. He then went on to play at MSU-Mankato where is still the all-time leading scorer in the program history. Aaron also helped the team transition the D-1 level. He was also inducted into the MSU-Mankato Halls of Fame in 2021. After college, Aaron began a professional hockey career where he played more than 15 seasons throughout Europe. Some countries he played in include Slovakia, Switzerland, Germany, Slovenia, Austria, and Croatia. Towards the end of his playing career, Aaron transitioned to the other side of the puck and began as a GM in the KHL, Russia's pro-league. Currently, Aaron is the head coach and GM for the Sheffield Steelers, in Sheffield, London.
Jon Watson is a 2022 Raider graduate. Jon moved to Hastings at the beginning of his 9th grade year and has played baseball and basketball during his time at HHS. Jon went from not making the basketball team during his 7th and 8th grade year, to being voted the captain of the Hastings basketball team. John plans to major in mechanical engineering and has deep advice for parents and coaches, and urges them to focus on the heart of their athletes and notice the words they use.
Phil Jensen is a 2022 Raider graduate. Throughout his high school career, he has swam in multiple events but has excelled in the 100 meter fly and 100 meter back stroke. Phil has earned many awards during his time at Hastings such as 5 varsity letters, captain during his senior year, two- time state qualifier, and was all-state during his junior year taking 7th in the 100 meter backstroke. Phil is wrapping up his senior year and season and has great advice from young athletes.
Paul Olson is a 2005 graduate of Buffalo High School. After high school, he attended NDSU where he was a student manager for the men’s basketball team. Paul taught at Mahtomedi HS for one year before coming to Hastings. For the past 12 years, Paul has taught a variety of math classes such as Algebra and AP Stats. He has also been an assistant coach for a variety of sports such as varsity football, varsity golf, and boys basketball. Paul’s experiences as a teacher and a coach have given a unique insight into the role sports can play in one’s life. Paul also has great advice for parents, coaches and student athletes.
Lindsay Williams is a 2002 Raider graduate. During her high school career, she participated in cross country, Nordic skiing, and track and field. In her 10th grade year, she took 3rd at the Nordic skiing state championship. She followed that up with a state championship her junior year and a 2nd place finish her senior year. During high school, Lindsay also participated in the Junior Nationals and Junior World Championships. After high school, she attended Northern Michigan University where she was a US National Champion in the sprint and a 2007 5K skate National Champion. Finally, Lindsay was a 2006 Olympian, participating in Nordic skiing. Throughout the interview, Lindsay gives great advice on how to make massive improvements through training and demonstrates the jumps one can make in sports with focus and hard work.
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Dr. Peter Zak is a 1986 graduate of Rochester Mayo High School. After graduating from college, he spent time coaching and teaching in Mankato, Texas, Bloomington, and then found his way to Hastings. During his time at Hastings, Pete taught at both the middle and high school and coached a wide variety of sports. The sports include 9th grade football, middle school football, head coach for track and field, and as an assistant coach for the girls basketball team. Pete was a coach on both the 1996 girls basketball state championship team and the 2001 boys football state championship team. Pete has also coached his four children in a variety of sports such as football and basketball. Pete has some great stories from his years of coaching and awesome advice for parents, coaches, and students athletes. Sit back and enjoy.
Dana Strain is a 1988 graduate of Ellsworth High School. After graduating from UW-Eau Claire, he stayed on staff and coached football for 5 years before moving onto UND as a graduate assistant coach for 1 ½ years. After both of those coaching opportunities, Dana coached and taught for 8 years at Ashwaubenon High school before coming to Hastings where he has been a math teacher and head football coach for 15 years. During this time, he has also coached MS baseball. Coach Strain brings a ton of passion and energy to the football field and his players. Throughout the interview, he talks about focusing on the process and not the outcome while measuring his players for growth and progress. His advice to parents, coaches, and athletes truly hits home especially to anyone who is on the fence or thinking about getting into coaching.
Sue Frost McVicker is a 1995 Raider graduate. During her time at Hastings High School, Sue played multiple sports and collected numerous awards and accolades. In soccer, she was a three year letter winner, captain of the team, and won awards such as most offensive, MVP, All-Conference, All-Metro, and All-Section. In basketball, Sue was a two-year letter winner, and won awards for being All-Section and All-conference. She also led her team to the section finals her senior year where they were narrowly beaten. In track, she participated in the 100m hurdles, 300m hurdles, long jump, 4x200m relay, and numerous other races or relays. Sue was also All-Conference two times for track. Finally during her senior year, she participated in golf. After high school, she attended River Falls and then St. Olaf where she played soccer for three seasons. Since graduating college, Sue has coached multiple teams and sports in Hastings such as HFC soccer, high school JV soccer, and numerous travel basketball teams. Sue has great insight into the unique role sports can play in one’s life and ends the conversation with wise advice for parents, coaches, and athletes.
Claire Keller is a sophomore at Hastings High School. Through her life, she has played many sports, but fell in love with tennis and has excelled at the high school level. She is a three time letter winner during her 8th, 9th, and 10th grade years and also won All-Conference recognition during each of these years. Throughout the interview, Claire shares thoughtful answers on why she chooses to play sports and how she defines success. She also has extremely insightful answers for advice for parents, coaches, and other student-athletes.
Katie McAlpin is a 2002 Raider graduate. For the last 20 years, she has been a staple in the Hastings High School swim programs. Katie started coaching boys and girls swimming in the fall of 2002 as an assistant and became the girls head coach in 2003, which she has done for the last 17 years. Katie has an enormous amount of experience as a swim coach and talks about her evolution as a coach throughout the 20 year coaching span. She also goes into great detail on how to make meaningful connections in her athlete’s lives and use a sport like swimming to propel you into a successful future.
Molly Caturia is a junior at Hastings High School and will be a 2023 Raider graduate. During her time at Hastings High School she has participated in Cross Country, Nordic Skiing, and Track and Field. In Cross Country, she is a 4 year letter winner and a was named captain during her junior year. In Nordic Skiing, she is a 4 year letter winner and a two-time captain. Finally, in track and field, she was a letter winner during her sophomore year. By the time Molly graduates, she will earn 14 varsity letters between her three sports. Molly is also involved numerous clubs and activities such as link crew, student council, is a FCA huddle leader, a writing center coach, YIG, red cross club, and horticulture club. Throughout the interview, Molly hammers the connection between sports and fun and why relationships made through sports are critical for success.
Jeff Corkish is the Co-Chair of the Health & Human Performance Department at Hastings High School. Throughout his 22-year educational career, he has taught nearly every course offered including Health 9 and 10, SPARQ, and every kind of elective class. He led a departmental redesign that shifted the focus to lifelong fitness, and differentiated options by interest and gender, all of which have resulted in significantly higher enrollment, retention and results in HP courses over the last decade. Jeff was a college hockey player, college Graduate Assistant Coach, and for 17 years he was the Head Girls Hockey Coach at HHS for 17 years. He is an honored member of the MN Girls Hockey Coaching Hall of Fame. Jeff and his spouse Laura are proud parents of three children who are all active in youth sports. We hope you enjoy this conversation with our favorite Canadian, Cork!
Axel Arnold is a 2022 Raider graduate. Throughout his high school career he has participated in Football, Basketball, and Baseball. In football, he has been the starting varsity quarterback during his junior and senior year and is a captain as a senior. In basketball, he has been the starting varsity center during his junior and senior year and is a captain as a senior. Axel has not played baseball since his freshman year but plans to play again this year. He is also involved in Link Crew, National Honor Society, and Spanish Honor Society. Next year, Axel will attend the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Business.
Erin is a 1997 graduate of Hastings High school and was a two-time all-state selection in both volleyball and basketball. During her time as a Raider, Erin earned 15 varsity letters and was named all-conference team 13 times in volleyball, basketball, and golf. She is third on the Raiders girls basketball all-time leading scorers list with 1,608 points, and is on a short list of Minnesota high school athletes to reach both the 1,000 point milestone in basketball and 1,000 kill milestone in volleyball. Erin participated in six different state tournaments as an individual or team, including the only state volleyball tournament team in 1995 and the incredible girls basketball state championship team in 1996. Erin was a finalist for Miss Basketball and went on to compete in basketball and golf for North Dakota State University
Ty Bushinski is a 2022 Raider graduate. Throughout his high school career he has competed in multiple sports such as Cross Country, where he has been a two-time captain and earned All-Conference, Nordic Skiiing, and Track and Field. Ty also excels outside of sports where he holds a 4.0 G.P.A. while participating in Spanish Honor Society, National Honor Society, Link Crew, Peer Helpers, YIG, and FCA. Next year, Ty plans to attend either Northwestern University or the University of St. Thomas where he plans to major in mechanical engineering and pre-law.
Todd Levos is a 1989 graduate of Fargo North High School. After graduating, he attended NDSU where he threw for the Track and Field team. In 1999, he was hired as the boys head track and field coach and held that position for three years. He has also been an assistant for the team for over 15 years. Todd has also coached Little Raiders football for 5 years, a variety of basketball teams with his sons for 10 years, and football for almost 10 years. Todd has three children who graduated from Hastings High School. Sawyer graduated in 2018 and was a three sport athlete competing in football, basketball, and track and field. Sully graduated in 2019 and competed in football, basketball, and track and field. Finally, Shea graduated in 2021 and competed in basketball and golf. Todd is currently the director of the ALC for the Hastings School District.
Steven Krey is a 2022 Raider graduate. During his time at Hastings High School, he has participated in football, soccer, hockey, and track and field. After his freshman year of high school, Steven switched from football to soccer and made the varsity that year. He has been a two time captain of the soccer team. Not only does he excel in athletics, but in the classroom as well. During this interview, Steven talks about how to balance sports with academics and find success in both. Steven has great insight for parents, coaches, and younger student athletes as well.
Bella Meier is a 2022 Raider graduate. During her high school career, she has participated in soccer, golf, and track and field. In soccer, she has been a four year varsity starter and has collected multiple All-Conference awards, All-Section awards, and was All-State during her junior year. Bella has also been a 3-time captain for the girls soccer team. From 7-10th grade, Bella participated in golf and then switched to track and field during her junior year where she was All-Conference. Bella is in her senior year and plans to attend the University of St. Thomas she will play soccer and major in Pre-Med and minor in Spanish. Bella has great advice for younger athletes so listen to the whole interview!
Jamie Swanson is a 1992 Hastings Raider graduate. During high school, he participated in soccer and track and field. Jamie has coached at a variety of soccer levels at Hastings including boys C-squad, girls C-squad, and has been the head boys soccer coach for 7 years. Jamie works to instill core values in his athletes on a daily basis that include integrity, determination, relationships, and trust.
Pete McGinnis is a 1984 Raider Graduate. During high school, he was a three sport athlete competing in football, basketball, and baseball. Pete was All-conference as a football player and captain of the football team and basketball team. While he was in college, he was recruited to coach high school football and began his coaching career in 1987. Over the last 35 years, Pete has coached five different sports. For football he has coached at the middle school, 9th grade, 10 grade, and varsity levels. In basketball, he has coached both boys and girls at the middle school, JV, and varsity levels. In baseball, he has coached at the middle school and 9th grade level. In track, he was an assistant coach for two years. Finally, in golf, Pete was the head varsity from 1996-2019 and is currently as assistant. Pete has been a physical education teacher in the Hastings School District since the early 90's and also the middle school athletic director for two years. The wealth of knowledge and experience Pete brings to this episode is second to none where he gives great advice to new coaches, seasoned coaches, parents, and athletes.
Kendal Jenkins is a junior at Hastings High School and will be a 2022 Raider Graduate. She competes in swimming and softball. In swimming, she has been a varsity athlete since 8th grade and is a 4 time all-conference award winner while competing in the 100m backstroke and 100 m freestyle. In softball, she has been a varsity starter since 8th grade and was All-State during her 9th grade year. Kendall is extremely thoughtful in her approach to athletics and the role it has played in her life. In this interview, she discusses the impact sports has had on her and has very insightful advice for parents, coaches, and athletes.
Jackie Kranz is a 1976 Raider graduate. During her time at Hastings High School, Jackie was part of the first female volleyball team in school history and was all-conference her senior year. She was apart of the student council and was the vice president of as a class officer. Jackie started working in the district in 1995 and in 1997 started at the athletic administrative assistant, which is her current position as well. Over the last 20 years, Jackie has worked with three athletic directors, thousands of coaches, and tens of thousands of athletes where she helps them prepare for their sports season and assists them throughout the year. Working in the athletic department, Jackie has had a unique role working with coaches and athletes, while also being a parent and grandparent of athletes as well.
Alec Rudh is a 2017 Raider graduate. During his time at Hastings High School, he participated in hockey and tennis. During his junior year of high school, Alec was a captain of the tennis team and the #1 singles. During his senior year, he was captain of the hockey team and captain and #1 singles for the tennis team again. After graduating from Hastings, Alec attended St. Mary's University in Winona where he competed in tennis and majored in business analytics and sports management. Currently, Alec is living in Orlando, Florida and works for the United State Tennis Association where he plans and runs operations and major tennis competitions.
Nolan Myers is a 2021 Raider graduate. He is a three sport athlete participating in Cross Country, wrestling, and track and field. In cross country, he is a four year letter winner, three time all-conference award winner, and a two- time captain. In wrestling, he is a five year letter winner, one time all conference, a two-time captain, and was All-state his senior year. Finally in track, he is a three-year letter winner and a one year captain. Nolan is attending South Dakota State University where he will major in Fish and Wildlife Science.
Ben Clemens is a junior at Hastings High School. He is a three sport athlete where he competes in football, hockey, and lacrosse. Ben is a stellar student-athlete who excels both in the classroom and on the field of play. As a junior in high school, he brings a unique perspective to sports as someone who is beginning his journey as a leader in sports and how this leadership role has a positive benefit to one's life.
Nick Tuckner is a 1999 Raider graduate. He is the oldest of six children who went through the SEAS school system and then to Hastings High School for 9-12th grade. Nick participated in multiple sports throughout middle and high school such as soccer, hockey, baseball, and golf. During these sports, he suffered numerous setbacks such as injuries and not making the team which he talks about during this episode. Nick used these small setbacks during his high school years to learn more about the sports he played and fostered a love for sports which ultimately lead him to his current profession. Nick has worked at KDWA as the sports director since 2002 where he has called over 1000 games for Raider Athletics. During this time, he has called some great Raider wins such as the 2011 Softball state championship and the 2012 Football win over CDH. Nick always brings high energy to his play by play and brought that same energy to this interview. He also gets very emotional when discussing his time playing soccer on Todd Field and the circumstances surrounding it. Finally, with 19 years of experience in multiple sports, Nick brings great insight to parents, coaches, and current athletes.
Mick Willete is a 1993 graduate of Blue Earth Area High School. While in high school, he was a three sport athlete where he competed in basketball, tennis, and cross country. After graduation, Mick attended St. John's University where he majored in English Education and competed in tennis. Mick taught English for one year at Blue Earth Area High School before being hired at Hastings High School in 2000. During his teaching career, he has coached tennis at a variety of levels. These include Middle School for 3 years, JV boys for 2 years, Varsity girls for 5 years, and the head boys coach for 15 years. Mick retired from the boys head tennis position in 2020 and is still teaching English at Hastings High School. Mick brings an enormous amount of experience and knowledge to this episode where he reflects on the teachers and coaches who impacted his life and how that molded his coaching and teaching style.
Aryana Klaren is a 2021 Raider Graduate. She has competed in multiple sports throughout her high school career such as soccer, hockey, and lacrosse. She has been a four year varsity starter in both hockey and lacrosse where she was a two-time captain for lacrosse and a one-time captain for hockey. Aryana brings an interesting take to sports where she picked up lacrosse during high school and excelled in it. Finally, she has great advice for coaches, parents, and current athletes.
Simon Hedin is a 2021 Raider graduate. He is a four sport varsity athlete participating in soccer as a defenseman, football as the kicker, hockey as a goalie, and baseball as a pitcher. Simon won the Excel award as a junior and will attend Northwestern University in Chicago where he plans to major in engineering. Simon has great insight into sports and the role it can play in the life of a high school student athlete. Listen to the entire episode to hear his words of wisdom for coaches, parents, and other student athletes.
Brady Wasvick is a 2007 Raider graduate. While he was a student at Hastings High school, he participated in football and lacrosse. For the past 10 years, Brady has coached Little Raiders football, 9th and 10th grade football and boys lacrosse. He has been the head boys lacrosse coach for the past 5 years.
Greg Sandkamp is a 1971 Raider graduate. The Sandkamp family moved to Vermillion when Greg was in 5th grade where he attended St. John the Baptist school until coming to Hastings High School in 9th grade. During high school, he competed in football, wrestling, and track and field. Greg received his teaching degree from The University of River Falls and started his teaching and coaching career in Farmington. In the late 70's, he started teaching at coaching in the Hastings school district. Over his 40 year teaching and coaching career, Greg has worked at numerous schools in the district while coaching soccer, cross country, wrestling, track and field, nordic skiing, and a variety of middle school sports. Over his career, he has taught and coached well over 10,000 Hastings' students and athletes. Greg is currently retired from teaching, but still coaches and substitute teaches throughout the district.
In this episode we bring you Matt Van Der Bosch who is a 2000 Raider graduate. Matt transferred to Hastings at the beginning of his Junior year of high school and was a three sport athlete during his two years. He was a part of two state tournament hockey teams, taking 2nd and 3rd. He was also part of 1999 State Championship baseball team. Finally, Matt was a player on the 1999 state finalist football team. After college, Matt played baseball at Yavapai College for two years and then Oral Roberts University for his final two years of college. Matt was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 9th round and played a handful of seasons in the minor leagues. Today Matt enjoys playing amateur baseball for the Meisville Mudhens along with being a father or two and a husband to his lovely wife.
Stephen Reifenberger is a junior at Hastings High School. He will be a 2022 Raider graduate. Stephen participates in Football and Hockey where he had some varsity playing time as a sophomore but has transitioned a full time varsity starter in both sports. During his junior football season, Stephen was named captain of the team. Stephen comes from a big family and sports have played a key role in his life by developing him into the person he is today. Listen to the whole interview to hear Stephen give great insight into the unique role sports can have on one's life.
Deb Carlson is a 1991 Raiders graduate who participated in multiple state meets and earned all-state in both gymnastics and track and field. Her gymnastics and track and field teams also won multiple conference team championships. She is a teacher, parent, and has also coached sports at multiple levels. Did you know she grew up on a farm, and that she used to practice her gymnastics beam routine while riding on the back of her Dad's hay wagon? This episode was a lot fun! Listen in to hear more from Deb.
Jason Gergen is a 1992 Hastings High School graduate. While competing in alpine skiing as a high school athlete, Jason was a two time state individual qualifier and was part of two teams to qualify for the state tournament. These teams took 2nd in 1991 and 3rd in 1992. In 1995, Jason became an assistant coach for the alpine ski team and then rejoined the coaching staff again in 2019 as an assistant coach. In 2020, he took over as head coach of the alpine ski team and has been the head coach for the past two seasons.
Vicki Davis has a legacy of service to the Hastings community that has spanned almost 50 years as a teacher, coach, and administrator. She personally started multiple Raiders girls’ athletics programs in the early 1970s including basketball, volleyball, tennis, and track & field. She was also a sports official – she refereed Minnesota’s-first state championship game in girls basketball – as well as a Region Secretary that managed MSHSL section playoff tournaments for 30 sports per year. She is a member of the Minnesota State University-Mankato Hall of Fame, and the MSHSL Hall of Fame. Did you know that Vicki was the first girl to ever play little league baseball in Minnesota. That she played four different sports as a collegiate athlete? That she is currently a coordinator and evaluator of officials for almost multiple Division I and II conferences across the country for women's basketball? Vicki Davis is a true pioneer, a legend, and a proud Hastings Raider.
Adam Melstrom is the Certified Athletic Trainer that provides comprehensive athletic training services to the student-athletes and teams at Hastings High School. He is “everywhere” at Raiders sports and is an invaluable part of our athletic programs. Tune in to hear about his professional training, a day in the life of an athletic trainer, why he appreciates Hastings, and hear his words of advice for parents and athletes.
This episode features Adam Welch. Adam is a 2002 Raiders graduate. He was a three-sport athlete who earned multiple all-conference and all-state accolades and played in 5 state tournaments in two different sports. Currently Adam is a math teacher at HHS who coaches two sports; assistant varsity football and head boys hockey. He is a repeat conference and section Coach of the Year in boys hockey. Did you know that Adam started playing hockey in Seattle? Played both basketball and hockey through 8th grade? That he didn't play on an “A” or traveling teams until 7th grade? Be sure to listen until the end, to hear Adam’s great advice for athletes and parents.
In this episode, we feature Kiki Radke, a 2016 Raider graduate. During her time at Hastings High School, Kiki competed in hockey, track, cross country, and soccer. In cross country, she was all conference and a captain of the team her freshman year. In soccer, Kiki was all-conference and all section team during her senior season. In hockey, she was all-conference 4 times, all- state honorable mention, and made all-state. Kiki was also a two-year captain, a finalist for Ms. Minnesota, and is 2nd all time for points in Hastings girls hockey history. After high school, she attended Bemidji State University where she majored in medical biology and chemistry. Kiki played hockey at BSU for four years where she was a 3 time all WCHA scholar athlete, 2 year captain, 2 time academic all-American and a nominee for BSU scholar athlete of the year.
Japhi Gudissa is a senior at Hastings High School and will be a 2021 Raider Graduate. He participates in soccer and basketball. Japhi has started on the varsity soccer team since his sophomore year and was all-conference honorable mention during his junior year and captain of the team his senior year. He also has started on the varsity basketball team during his junior and senior year where he earned all-conference honorable mention his junior year and was a team captain for both years. Japhi has a unique background and uses his life experiences to have a positive impact at Hastings High school and in the community of Hastings.
Dr. Gerry Rupp is a 1980 Raider graduate. During his time at Hastings High School he participated in football and swimming. Dr. Rupp was a state place winner in the 100m backstroke in 1977 and a state champ in the 100m backstroke in 1979 and 1980. He was also a high school all-american in 79 and 80 as well. From there, Dr. Rupp competed in swimming at the University of Minnesota where he was a 4 year varsity letter winner, 11 time Big Ten finalist, co-captain in 1983 and 1984, and was an Olympic Trials qualifier in 1984. He came back to Hastings after graduation and became the Hastings High School boys head swim coach in 1988 and girls head coach in 1991. After a short hiatus in the early 2000s, Dr. Rupp took over the boys program again in 2004 and became an assistant girls coach in 2006 which he has held since.
In this episode, we bring you Taylor and Abby Pelava. Taylor is a Junior at HHS and will be a 2022 Raider graduate. She participates in soccer, alpine skiing, track, and will join trap shooting this year. Taylor has received numerous all-conference awards and academic awards during her time at HHS. Abby is a Freshman at HHS and will be a 2024 Raider graduate. She participates in soccer and alpine skiing. Listen to the end of the interview where the girls give great advice for parents, coaches, and current athletes in order for them to find success.
Josh McLay is a 2000 Raider graduate. While at HHS, he played multiple sports including football, wrestling, and track. During his senior year, he was a part of the football team that took 2nd in state. He also was a three time state champion for wrestling and part of five wrestling teams that placed at the state tournament including the State Championship team of 1996. Josh wrestled for the U of M, is married with three children, and is currently a teacher at HHS and a football and wrestling coach.
Dick Cragg has served the Raiders athletic programs in a variety of roles for over 30 years. Dick has likely seen more live Raiders sports events than any other person in the last 40 years! Did you know that Dick attended military school? That his favorite sport to follow is Gopher Hockey?That he was a former athletic administrator? That his favorite in-person memories include Raiders state championship teams from 1996 and 2001? Be sure to listen to the very end to hear Dick describe what differentiates Hastings - and also to hear his words of wisdom for parents and coaches.
Linnea Urban is a current Raider in her Senior year of high school (2021 graduate). She is a three sport athlete competing in Cross Country, Nordic Skiing, and Track. Throughout her high school career, she has won multiple all- conference awards and was all-state in Nordic Skiing during her sophomore and junior years. She plans to attend St. Scholastica where she will run Cross Country and Nordic Ski.
Today’s episode features Michael Bauer. Michael is a 1999 graduate of Hastings High School who was all-state in track and field and basketball. He led the boys basketball team to the school’s first conference title in over 40 years as well as back-to-back section finals appearances. Did you know Michael recorded incredible statistical feats like a 52-point game and a game with 14-blocks? Michael was a finalist for Mr. Basketball who earned a full Division I scholarship to the University of Minnesota and then played professional basketball in Europe for 8 years? Did you know he played against Kevin Garnett? Did you know he was a 2x champion in the Euroleague? Listen in for lots more from Michael.
Torry Kraftson is a 1991 Raider graduate. He was a three sport athlete during his time at Hastings High School competing in Cross Country, Nordic Skiiing, and Track. Torry collected numerous all-conference and all-state accolades in all three sports including a team state title in Nordic Skiing, three individual state titles in Nordic Skiing, one individual state title in Cross Country, and a 3rd place finish in Track. He attended The University of Utah where he competed in Cross Country and Nordic Skiing where he was an NCAA Division 1 All-American in Nordic. Currently, Torry is a teacher at Stillwater High School.
This episode features Katy Hertel. Katy is a 1997 Raiders graduate. She was a three-sport athlete competing in soccer, basketball, and softball. While a Raider athlete, Katy accumulated multiple academic, all-conference, and all-state honorable mention awards and was the starting point guard for the 1996 Girls State Basketball Championship team. She went on to play Division II basketball as a UM-Duluth Bulldog and then became a scrumhalf for the Minnesota Valkyries Rugby Club (15’s). Katy won several National All-Star Championships with the Midwest Thunderbirds (15’s + 7’s) and earned one international cap playing #9 for the USA Eagles in the 2008 Nations Cup (London) before retiring from competitive sports. Currently, Katy works in talent management/talent strategy & performance and is a leadership coach and photographer on the side. Katy has a passion for investing in people, challenging and supporting them to realize their full potential while leading meaningful careers and lives. Katy places a high value on her close relationships with family and friends, and continues to be grateful for the coaches and teammates she has had the privilege to compete with throughout her life.
Dr. Cindra Kamphoff is speaker, best-selling author, and certified sports performance consultant. She is a based at Minnesota State University-Mankato, where she directs the Center for Sport & Performance Psychology. Cindra works regularly with professional and collegiate athletes, as well organizations like the Minnesota Vikings, Target, and the Mayo Clinic Health System. Cindra has been working directly with Hastings High School athletic teams since 2018 in a unique mental training partnership. This is an episode packed with great tips, take-aways, and advice.
Tim Haneberg and Trent Hanson introduce the Raiders on the Record podcast. Trent walks through the formation of the podcast, who we are interviewing, who the target audience is, what the future looks like with the podcast, and what we are excited for with the Raiders on the Record podcast.
Raiders on the Record is the official podcast of the Hastings High School (MN) athletic department. Through this podcast, we interview alumni, current and former coaches, current athletes, and experts in the field of sports. The interviews discuss their achievements, coaching inspirations, teammates who inspired them, their individual growth process, and how sports has impacted their lives. Finally, each guest gives insight from their experiences to parents, coaches, and current athletes.