Dave Nelson won the 2019 Power of Influence Award winner, given by the American Football Coaches Association and the American Football Coaches Foundation.
The excitement that surrounds the recruitment of top high school prospects in football and basketball is largely absent in hockey, even in hockey-rich Minnesota. Here's why.
Also recognized: Adam Berghult (Edina Alpine skiing), Adam Flammang (St. Michael-Albertville hockey), Ryan Samuelson (Jordan basketball), Ally Qualley (Breck hockey), Cordelia Sherwood (Orono Alpine skiing), and Matthew Willert (Buffalo basketball).
The undefeated Eagles (12-0) are the poster children for the benefits of teamwork, a throwback for unified play in a time when individual achievements build followings (and brands) and going viral equals validity.
The Governors got a pair of goals and an assist from Damian Cunningham to help defeat a Bearcats team that features one of the state's top goal scorers in Calvin Hanson.
Founded after 19-year-old Max Marvin died by suicide, the organization's mission is raising funds "with the intent to support charitable programs, projects, and activities that facilitate mental wellness amongst the youth in the Warroad area."
Rich Wilkie led the Huskies for 18 seasons, reaching the state tournament five times. He will serve as quarterbacks coach for his friend and new Auggies head coach Derrin Lamker.
After Minnehaha Academy's Jalen Suggs committed to Gonzaga, Hopkins deadeye shooting guard Kerwin Walton is the only top senior in the state left to make a college commitment.
Coverage of high school sports in the Twin Cities and around Minnesota, from the regular season through the tournaments, with discussion forums and stats.