2009 Triple “A” Region Winners – Student Bios
Yvonne Freese
Lanesboro High School
Region 1A
G.P.A. 3.77
Volleyball, basketball, track and field, cheerleading, band, choir
“I have always put forth my best effort in all of my education, music, athletics and
extracurricular activities. I am always willing to volunteer my time for various
fundraisers and community service projects and events. I am a well-rounded individual
being very involved in academics, athletics and the arts. I hope to inspire students to try
new things and become involved in their community and in school.”
Career plan: to attend Northern State University in Aberdeen, South Dakota, majoring
in music education and vocal performance, and competing in basketball and track and
field; then to pursue a masters or doctoral degree and work in higher education as a music
professor
Tony Becker
Rushford-Peterson High School
Region 1A
G.P.A. 3.986
Football, wrestling, track and field, band, debate, visual arts
“Through success, hard work, and dedication I have laid a foundation to help me develop
my work ethic. This foundation comes from my experiences in school such as the fine
arts like band, athletics like wrestling, and academics like mentoring. By using the
qualities of teamwork, patience, responsibility, and leadership I can achieve my goal – to
help others improve their lives. With the help of family, friends, and teachers I will
become successful and know that I will make a difference in my life and the lives of
others.”
Career plan: to attend college, become an engineer, working on environmental causes
Kathryn Schroeder
Sleepy Eye High School
G.P.A. 3.87
Region 2A
Volleyball, dance team, softball, cheerleading, band, choir, one act play, speech
“I enjoy the feeling of accomplishment when I work hard at something that challenges
me, and I have always strived to maintain high grades. I’ve enjoyed being involved in the
arts because I am always eager to try new things, and take advantage of opportunities
available. Athletics have made me more physically and mentally strong and have shown
me the true meaning of teamwork, determination, and dedication. Being involved in so
many activities has taught me the importance of time management and organization.”
Career plan: to attend Minnesota State University, Mankato, pursuing a degree in
nursing in preparation for a career in a maternity ward or children’s hospital
Anthony Rudeen
Buffalo Lake-Hector High School Region 2A
G.P.A. 3.996
Football, cross country, basketball, track and field, band, choir, speech
“There are three facets of the AAA award: academics, athletics, and arts. I feel like I have
spent my high school career doing nothing but these three things. Upon reaching 9th
grade, I realized how much my academic performance would affect my future grades.
This sense of wanting to challenge myself has carried over to other areas as well.
Wanting to be involved and part of the team, I have always given the best I have to offer,
no matter the sport.”
Career plan: to attend the University of Wisconsin – Madison, earn a degree in Human
Resources Management, while taking time to also study abroad
Hannah Hildebrandt
Mountain Lake High School
Region 3A
G.P.A. 3.908
Cross country, basketball, track and field, band, choir, one act play, speech
“I strongly believe that high school shouldn’t be an experience of education only through
school, but also an experience of ‘life education’ through extra-curricular activities.
Extra-curricular activities have taught me many lessons, such as the importance of
teamwork, dedication, planning, goal setting, and time management. I feel being involved
in activities is a great opportunity for me to represent my community and my school,
along with being a role model to younger students.”
Career plan: to pursue a degree in speech and language pathology, and work in a
hospital with patients of all ages as they regain their speech skills
Mark Bau
Murray County Central High School
Region 3A
G.P.A. 3.789
Cross country, football, basketball, track and field, band, choir
“I have demonstrated leadership in the classroom, in athletics, and in the arts. In class,
when no one steps up to answer a tough question, I will usually take a stab at it. In
athletics, I have played a lead role, especially as a distance runner on the cross country
and track teams. In band, I take a lead role in tackling new rhythms and notes that aren’t
known to our section. From these activities I have gained confidence in my ability to put
forward my best effort in whatever I’m doing.”
Career plan: to attend a four-year college, likely South Dakota State University, and
then to pursue a doctorate in pharmacy with plans to work in a retail store as a pharmacist
Jenna Gehl
West Lutheran High School
Region 4A
G.P.A. 3.99
Volleyball, basketball, softball, cheerleading, band, choir, speech
“My goal when I entered high school was to experience every activity offered. The
challenging classes have made me a better student, which gives me confidence that I can
do the work that college will require. The arts have stretched me as a person. Athletics
gave me confidence, joy, excitement, and an eagerness to share this with younger girls.
Hard work, commitment, compromise, leadership, patience, and cooperation are traits
that I learned and can be used in my life.”
Career plan: to pursue a teaching and coaching degree at a four-year college in
Minnesota, while also participating in collegiate athletics; then becoming a teacher and
coach, possibly teaching high school math
Matthew Kopp
Providence Academy
Region 4A
G.P.A. 3.40
Soccer, baseball, track and field, band, choir, one act play, speech
“I have not only succeeded in my academic studies, but I have exceeded expectations.
Attending a rigorous school with an outstanding curriculum has posed many academic
challenges that I have overcome. Having played in bands for eight years and several
choirs for multiple years, I represent the arts aspect of this award. I have gone above and
beyond simply succeeding at arts; I have excelled. Not only participating in numerous
athletic activities, but standing out in them proves that I represent the athletics portion of
this award.”
Career plan: to earn a four-year degree in advertising, and to possibly work in
advertising for a movie production company
Kaari Jensen
Pierz High School
Region 5A
G.P.A. 3.945
Tennis, basketball, track and field, band, choir, one act play, visual arts
“It is very important to take advantage of the many great academic, athletic and arts
programs available at the high school level. Being involved is a special opportunity and
should not be passed up. It is difficult to juggle multiple activities, sports, and the
academic work of school, but this effort makes the end result so much more rewarding. I
feel honored to be chosen because I know there are many other hardworking, involved
students in our area and across the state of Minnesota.”
Career plan: to attend a four-year college in Minnesota or Wisconsin and consider
different majors while completing general courses
Michael Weber
Pierz High School
Region 5A
G.P.A. 3.91
Football, basketball, baseball, band, choir
“I committed myself toward team performance and have enjoyed the times when my
classmates carried me and the moments when I could lead others. I am thankful to be part
of many good teams, state tournament experiences, and have great coaches who expect
success and spend extra time working to make me a better player and person. I am
involved, dedicated, hard working, and a good leader. I use these attributes in all aspects
of my life, committing myself to be the best all around student I can be.”
Career plan: to attend a four-year college in the Midwest and to study engineering,
possibly with a focus on environmental conservation, and perhaps playing collegiate
baseball
Katie Hutchison
Pillager High School
Region 6A
G.P.A. 3.94
Cross country, alpine skiing, track and field, band, choir
“I am a well rounded person having participated in a variety of arts, academics, and
athletics. I am involved in most of the activities which my district offers and I have
helped with several programs that promote activities for elementary age children. I have
taken advantage of the opportunities I have been given, have made the most of these
activities, have had lots of fun, made great friends, and learned many important life
lessons.”
Career plan: to earn a double major in elementary education and middle school math
education, then to pursue a career in teaching and coaching
Sam Thielen
Wheaton High School
Region 6A
G.P.A. 4.121
Football, basketball, baseball, track and field, band, choir, one act play
“Thousands of students participate in art, athletic, and academic activities during their
high schools careers. Many participate in one or two areas extensively but in few
activities in the other areas. I have participated and excelled in many activities in each
area throughout my high school career. Practicing and competing have taught me
perseverance and integrity and shown me the benefits that come from hard work.”
Career plan: to earn a degree in biomedical engineering and Spanish while playing
college baseball, and then to likely pursue graduate studies
Jessa Youso
Virginia High School
Region 7A
G.P.A. 3.96
Volleyball, basketball, track and field, band
“Continually I place myself in leadership positions, and people depend on me to be
honest and trustworthy. It is humbling to know each person has faith in me to represent
him or her in the best way possible. Some people think I’m crazy to take on so much
responsibility, but I believe you get out of life what you put into it. I know I will never
miss out on opportunities for personal growth, and that is all I could ask for.”
Career plan: to attend Carleton College, major in psychology, participate in athletics,
and hopefully study abroad; then, to pursue a career possibly in the psychology field
Tyler Erzar
Deer River High School
Region 7A
G.P.A. 3.982
Football, basketball, baseball, band, choir
“I have been dedicated to academics, athletics, the arts and the community all through
high school. Many hours of preparation have been put into my academic achievements.
My academic success has influenced my athletics and arts. I am committed 100% of the
time, set high standards, and am determined to reach my high goals. Balancing all of my
activities has been a worthwhile challenge and made my high school experience
enjoyable and rewarding.”
Career plan: to study mechanical engineering at a college in Minnesota, Wisconsin or
North Dakota, and to possibly participate in collegiate baseball depending on college
choice
Stephanie Wagner
Fisher High School
Region 8A
G.P.A. 3.897
Volleyball, basketball, track and field, band, choir, one act play
“Throughout my high school career, I had opportunities to participate in areas that I
thought were fun, challenging, and satisfying. I have a good attitude, am self motivated
and learned the trait of sweat equity because of the activities I chose in high school. I was
lucky enough through studying hard, practicing constantly, setting goals, facing obstacles
and displaying a positive attitude to have excelled in all the “A’s” of the Triple A Award.
I hope that my actions and attitudes inspire others to strive for their own successes.”
Career plan: to attend North Dakota State University in preparation for a career in the
medical field
Isaac Edlund
Crookston High School
Region 8A
G.P.A. 4.0
Football, wrestling, baseball, band, choir, orchestra
“I represent the three areas of athletics, academics and arts very well. I could very well
represent just one of these categories, yet I excel in all of them. I don’t spend all of my
time concentrating on one area, I distribute my time between all of my activities and do
my best in all of them. I know I can do well in all of them and I enjoy them.”
Career plan: to attend Association Free Lutheran Bible School in Plymouth for two
years, then possibly Crown College in St. Bonifacius to perhaps pursue the medical field
with a minor in music and theater, and to play football
Hanna Middlebrook
Austin High School
Region 1AA
G.P.A. 4.0
Tennis, basketball, band, choir, orchestra
“My curiosity and boundless energy drove me to try a wide variety of activities. I was
blessed to have endless support from my family and community. Being involved came
naturally to me. With such great support, I had nothing to worry about except doing the
things that I loved. The awards and recognitions are an honor, but I do these things
because it is who I am. My activities have contributed to the development of my
character and perseverance.”
Career plan: to attend St. Olaf College, participate in a music ensemble, study abroad,
and major in biology in preparation for an eventual career as a nurse practitioner
Derek Waldbillig
Farmington High School
Region 1AA
G.P.A. 4.0
Football, basketball, track and field, band, choir
“The academic path has taught me that putting forth time and effort paves the way to
achievement in the classroom. My fine arts journey has been a fulfilling and fun ride
through many years of band, piano lessons, and a humbling experience of taking choir for
the first time as a senior. Of my three paths, athletics has been the easiest to follow. I love
participating in any athletic competition, and my desire for success has taught me to set
goals. Academics, art, and athletics have been instrumental to a rewarding and successful
high school experience.”
Career plan: to attend the University of St. Thomas and earn a degree in engineering or
physics, while playing collegiate football; then possibly pursue graduate studies at the
University of Notre Dame
Sarah Bingea
Delano High School
Region 2AA
G.P.A. 4.018
Volleyball, basketball, softball, band, choir
“I have strong leadership skills, I strive to put forth my best effort, and I am dedicated to
everything I am involved in. Whether it is a basketball practice, studying for a test, or
learning a new piece of music, I always try to do my best. It is only when I have given it
my all that I am truly satisfied. It gives me gratification knowing that I accomplished
something by practicing or studying diligently. Besides being a leader and having good
work ethic, I display dedication and commitment to every part of my life.”
Career plan: to study abroad while in college, and to pursue a career in elementary
education
Dustin Lemke
Mankato East High School
Region 2AA
G.P.A. 3.869
Football, basketball, baseball, band, choir, orchestra
“I have been given the opportunity to succeed and to fail, been pushed to do more than I
thought I could, and challenged to grow as a leader. I have learned to take responsibility
for balancing my schedule and honoring the commitments I have made. My high school
activities have also taught me the importance of being a balanced, well rounded person
who doesn’t solely focus on my own goals but tries to help others become better.”
Career plan: to attend North Dakota State University for an undergraduate degree in
Sport and Recreation Studies focusing on Sports Management
Elle Schultz
Eastview High School
Region 3AA
G.P.A. 3.956
Basketball, track and field, speech, debate
“I have come to realize that life is all about balance. Athletics are still important to me,
but so are the arts and academics. Joining debate gave me the confidence to try activities
other than sports and I have been lucky enough to find success in those areas. I take my
studies very seriously and continue to challenge myself through taking, and excelling in,
the most rigorous courses available to me. I truly embody what the Triple ‘A’ Award
stands for and strive to be a well-rounded student.”
Career plan: to attend a liberal arts college, study abroad, and major in chemistry in
preparation for a career as a pharmacist
Cory Haala
Simley High School
Region 3AA
G.P.A. 4.0
Soccer, football, basketball, tennis, band, one act play, speech
“I have embodied not only a student who is proficient in all three areas, but one who has
truly tried to branch out at every turn in the road. All my high school endeavors have
been to expand my horizons, do great things for my school, and see just how far I could
extend my talents. The opportunities I have received and created have truly reflected
those of a true academic, athlete, and artist, and I honestly can say I have loved every
minute of them.”
Career plan: to attend a four-year college to study political science, history, or
international relations, and while there, study abroad, and participate in band ensembles
Rose Curry
Woodbury High School
Region 4AA
G.P.A. 4.201
Cross country, soccer, Nordic skiing, basketball, track and field, band, choir
“It is very important for me to lead a life where the harmonic balance of academics, arts
and athletics is given a high priority. I find they compliment each other and have helped
me make the most of my high school experience. I have come to realize that the
importance of academics, arts and athletics will not stop when I graduate from high
school. They will continue to be cornerstones of my life forever.”
Career plan: to attend the University of Minnesota College of Design, majoring in retail
merchandising and minoring in Spanish, also to study abroad and participate in the
University’s music programs
Christopher Struve
Highland Park High School
Region 4AA
G.P.A. 3.86
Soccer, tennis, track and field, band, choir, one act play
“I am committed to many organizations and activities, and because of all these different
activities I have acquired much knowledge about problem solving in each area. I have
been taught the importance of giving back to my community. I understand the time
management process to make sure that there is equal focus on all my activities. With my
experiences and teachings, I understand the balance between all three areas, and I put
forth the effort to make these three areas reflect from myself.”
Career plan: to attend a four-year college and major in hospitality management; then,
after working internationally for a hotel or restaurant chain, return to school in pursuit of
a graduate degree in hospitality
Kaylea Brase
Centennial High School
Region 5AA
G.P.A. 4.0
Cross country, soccer, alpine skiing, track and field, band, choir, visual arts
“My whole life I have been challenged with one simple rule of life: there isn’t enough
time for everything. This is hard for me because I have so many passions. When I was a
seven-year-old, I liked too many activities, so I made the decision easy by participating in
all seven. Now I’ve started to specialize in certain activities, but I still have quite a
schedule to balance. The ability to manage time and balance these diverse activities
qualifies me as a candidate for the Triple ‘A’ Award.”
Career plan: to attend a Christian liberal arts college, compete in collegiate cross
country and track and field, and take mathematics and physics courses before transferring
to the University of Minnesota to complete an engineering degree in preparation for a
career in the engineering field
John Neumann
Maple Grove High School
Region 5AA
G.P.A. 3.978
Cross country, Nordic skiing, track and field, choir
“I keep myself ticking through school activities, and I like to have a place in each of them
so that I can use my position to encourage other people to get involved. I love celebrating
high school as the time and place to be engaged in a multitude of events that can
showcase your school, and the talents its student body has to offer. These are the reasons
for my hard work, and they make me feel as though there is always a place for me to
excel academically, artistically, and athletically.”
Career plan: to attend the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management in
preparation for a career managing a business that offers services to those in need, perhaps
collaborating with international groups
Haley Johnson
Robbinsdale Cooper High School
Region 6AA
G.P.A. 4.0
Cross country, basketball, track and field, orchestra
“I’ve come to recognize the necessary qualities for success, whether in art, athletics, or
academics. Intelligence and natural skill are limited. Determination and tenacity are the
true keys to achievement. As a student, an athlete, and a musician, I have exposed myself
to a variety of mediums. In some areas, I’ve been more successful than in others. But in
every instance, I’ve participated with commitment and determination.”
Career plan: pursue an undergraduate degree, perhaps in English or journalism at
Boston University or another university; then work toward graduate and doctorate
degrees
Kyle Johnson
Eden Prairie High School
Region 6AA
G.P.A. 4.0
Football, baseball, choir
“I have focused my high school career on being a well-rounded individual and
consistently pursue my goals to the best of my ability. I have participated at high levels in
athletics, arts, and academics, and believe that all three areas are an integral part of
having a successful high school career. I am a person who can relate to every student in
some way and be a role model who can give other students someone to look up to.”
Career plan: to earn a degree in engineering, and pursue a career in environmental,
chemical or aerospace engineering; then to work toward a Master’s of Business
Administration
Jessica Vork
Cloquet High School
Region 7AA
G.P.A. 4.049
Soccer, basketball, track and field, choir
“I have been blessed with many gifts for which I am grateful. I understand how
demanding maintaining excellence in all areas of my life can be. However, a gift is truly
best when shared with others. I am a more complete and well rounded student by
diversifying my educational experience. Also, through arts, athletics, and academics, I
have been able to be a positive role model for younger students while upholding the high
standards set by previous award winners.”
Career plan: to attend Yale University to study pre-pharmacy and pre-law, while
participating in soccer and track and field
Benjamin Dummer
Cambridge-Isanti High School
Region 7AA
G.P.A. 4.0
Cross country, football, swimming and diving, track and field, band, choir
“I have always strived to be diligent toward many activities at one time. Finding
complete interest in one activity and disregarding other activities would be completely
monotonous and even more so, unfulfilling. As I gained interest in more activities it was
never about being the best, but how I could get better. As I pursue new interests or
continue to participate in current activities, I believe that being active is about being
diverse while constantly striving to learn and always be better.”
Career plan: to earn a biological sciences degree in preparation for medical school
Elizabeth Hauer
Little Falls High School
Region 8AA
G.P.A. 4.0
Cross country, Nordic skiing, track and field, band
“I am highly involved in academics, athletics, and the arts. I have been a three sport
athlete throughout my high school career. In all three aspects of the Triple “A” Award, I
have been a leader. I have worked hard over the last four years and contributed my talents
and hard work to my extra-curricular activities. I have invested my time into being a good
representative of our school while being a well-rounded student.”
Career plan: to attend a liberal arts college to pursue a major in music education and a
minor in mathematics; then, to become a high school band director
Jakob Lindaas
Moorhead High School
Region 8AA
G.P.A. 4.0
Cross country, track and field, choir, orchestra, speech
“I am a good candidate for the Minnesota State High School League Triple ‘A’ award
because of my exceptional involvement throughout high school and the levels of success
I have attained in many of the activities I participate in. I have maintained a 4.0 while
challenging myself academically, and have nurtured an intense passion for running. I am
constantly exploring my world and am continually pushing the boundaries of what I can
do.”
Career plan: to attend a liberal arts college, possibly in the first post-high school year, or
possibly taking one year to study Spanish and culture in Spain