By ELI LUTGENS
Publisher/Editor
In front of a large audience of about 50 friends, family, and coaches, NRHEG High School senior Brady Schlaak signed his official Letter of Intent to play Division III football and continue his education at the College of Saint Scholastica in Duluth on Tuesday, Feb. 28.
“I’m excited and scared at the same time,” Schlaak said of the decision. “It’s gonna be a huge change. I’m not going up against high school seniors and freshmen. Now it’s college seniors, as a freshman… But, I feel like I can definitely make a huge impact.”
The recruitment process started after Schlaak, 6’ 10’’ 300 lbs, posted a highlight reel on the social media site Twitter.
“Their head coach actually followed me (on Twitter) and saw the video,” Schlaak explained.
After seeing the video and the conclusion of the Panthers’ season, one of the Saint Scholastica coaches came down for an in-person visit. Next came a campus tour, followed by an official scholarship offer.
“I did the campus tour with them and I instantly fell in love,” Schlaak grinned. “And the coaching staff has been almost like another family to me. I just thought this is why this was gonna be the best fit.”
Schlaak had his choices of colleges narrowed down to Saint Scholastica or Augsburg, but said he preferred the family atmosphere. “I just felt like that will help me be more successful.”
Schlaak said he’s most thankful for his parents, his coaches, namely coach Chad Sykes, and finally his teammates.
“I’ve got a few (people to individually recognize),” Schlaak continued. “Sykes, who worked with me during almost every practice. Wyatt (Groskreutz) was a huge part during my sophomore year. I came in knowing absolutely nothing and he helped me get through all the plays, my form, everything. After he got hurt, I started working with Makota (Misgen). Those three are probably the biggest help that I have.”
Together with Schlaak at the signing table were his mom and dad Ben and Erin, grandparents John Mrozek and Maryann Schlaak, his sisters Ella and Mady, and brother Carter.