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PAST RECRUITING CLASSES:
[ 2017 ] | [ 2016 ] | [ 2015 ] | [ 2014 ] | [ 2013 ] | [ 2012 ] | [ 2011 ] | [ 2010 ] | [ 2009 ] | [ 2008 ] | [ 2007 ] | [ 2006 ] | [ 2005 ] | [ 2004 ]
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Concordia-St. Paul head football coach
Shannon Currier has announced the Golden Bears’ 2018 recruiting class highlighted by 26 new commitments on National Signing Day who join 10 student-athletes who have already enrolled at CSP.
All announced recruits to join the Golden Bear football team are contingent upon admission to Concordia University and compliance with NCAA rules and certification by the NCAA eligibility center.
"After building with young players the last couple years and creating a foundation on a track to greatness, we wanted to add instant playmaking ability to our program. We've infused veteran players with experience who can immediately make an impact on the field with multiple transfers in this class that we're excited about. We have multiple starters who have already come in this semester and a couple more joining us for summer workouts," said Currier. "I feel like we have addressed program needs, addressed the future of the program and are making an immediate impact on our performance right now with 10 transfers who are already in school with us."
He continued, "Additonally, we targeted improving our play along the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball. Two years ago we had four healthy offensive linemen when we came in. We've made major improvements already, but we still have to grow and improve and our additions today will help us on both sides - significantly. We've added size, strength, length and experience in the trenches."
The 36 student-athletes come from 12 different states as well as one overseas headlined by 10 from Minnesota, six from California and five from Wisconsin. The recruiting class features 12 incoming transfers and 24 prep players.
“We also added competition to the one of the most important positions in all of sports: quarterback. We are bringing in five dual threat quarterbacks: two transfers include a graduate transfer from the MIAA who started his career down the street with the Gophers, as well as three freshmen. We locked in key transfer wide receivers to help fill the void of a couple departing seniors.”
He concluded, "It's hard to identify all of the players individually, but collectively all 36 committed players are extremely important in our quest to become the most improved football team in the country!"
Since moving to NCAA Division II and the Northern Sun (NSIC) in 1999, the Golden Bears have captured two league championships and appeared in three Mineral Water Bowl games. Currier rejoined the program in December, 2015 and will enter his seventh overall season as Concordia's head coach, leading the program to four consecutive winning seasons from 2000-03 including the program's first NSIC Championship and postseason appearance in the 2003 Mineral Water Bowl. Currier holds a 36-30 career record and his .545 winning percentage is second in program history. The 2013 NSIC Coach of the Year enters his 12th season as a Division II head football coach with a 56-65 career record including his five years at Truman State.
Concordia-St. Paul is the only private, Division II institution in the state of Minnesota and the only Division II member in the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
RECRUITING CLASS BY THE NUMBERS:
Total: 36 ||
Offense: 20 (5 QB, 2 RB, 7 WR, 1 TE, 5 OL) ||
Defense: 16 (9 DL, 3 LB, 4 DB)
By State: Minnesota (10) || California (6) ||Wisconsin (5) || Illinois (3) ||Texas (3) || Iowa (2) || Arkansas (1) || Florida (1) || Mississippi (1) || Missouri (1) || North Carolina (1) || South Dakota (1) || England (1)
| 2018 Concordia-St. Paul Football Recruiting Class |
| NAME |
POS |
HT |
WT |
YR |
HOMETOWN |
HIGH SCHOOL |
PREVIOUS COLLEGE |
| Andy Aune* |
LB |
6-3 |
220 |
So. |
Golden Valley, Minn. |
Hopkins HS |
South Dakota |
| Jordan Brown |
RB |
6-0 |
190 |
Fr. |
Coon Rapids, Minn. |
Coon Rapids HS |
|
| Matthew Burks |
OL |
6-3 |
280 |
Fr. |
Diamond Bar, Calif. |
Diamond Ranch HS |
|
| Foster Conzet* |
LB |
6-1 |
225 |
R-Fr. |
Plymouth, Minn. |
Wayzata HS |
Minnesota Duluth |
| Adam Cook |
OL |
6-7 |
330 |
Fr. |
New Hope, Minn. |
Robbinsdale Cooper HS |
|
| TJ Diallo* |
DL |
6-7 |
305 |
Jr. |
Greensboro, N.C. |
Southern Guilford HS |
East Los Angeles College |
| Robel Ezana* |
TE |
6-4 |
250 |
Jr. |
San Diego, Calif. |
Helix Charter HS |
Crown College |
| Richard Ficociello |
DL |
6-3 |
255 |
Fr. |
Wheaton, Ill. |
Wheaton North HS |
|
| Carter Geyer |
WR |
5-11 |
195 |
Fr. |
Coon Rapids, Minn. |
Coon Rapids HS |
|
| Corey Guenther |
DL |
6-2 |
285 |
Fr. |
North St. Paul, Minn. |
North HS |
|
| TJ Hendrickson |
WR |
5-11 |
190 |
Fr. |
Berlin, Wis. |
Berlin HS |
|
| Dontay Holmes |
WR |
6-1 |
175 |
Fr. |
Houston, Texas |
Bellville HS |
|
| Thyrun Hurst |
QB |
6-3 |
189 |
Fr. |
Kingwood, Texas |
Kingwood Park HS |
|
| Bryan Jenkins |
DL |
6-4 |
257 |
Fr. |
Compton, Calif. |
Compton HS |
|
| Jeremiah Johnson* |
RB |
5-9 |
215 |
R-Fr. |
Miami, Fla. |
American HS |
Akron |
| Keegan Larson |
DL |
6-2 |
250 |
Fr. |
Waterloo, Iowa |
Cedar Falls HS |
|
| Darion Manning |
QB |
6-1 |
225 |
Fr. |
Houston, Texas |
Bellaire HS |
|
| Sam Marshalek |
OL |
6-4 |
285 |
Fr. |
De Pere, Wis. |
West De Pere HS |
|
| Mark Maumasi |
DL |
6-2 |
305 |
Jr. |
Mount Shasta, Calif. |
Mount Shasta HS |
|
| Kyle McDonough |
WR |
5-11 |
190 |
Fr. |
Cottage Grove, Minn. |
Park HS |
|
| Dom McKinzy |
QB |
6-0 |
215 |
Sr. |
Kansas City, Mo. |
Wyandotte HS |
Northeastern State |
| Zach Mikel |
DB |
5-11 |
175 |
Fr. |
Lonsdale, Minn. |
Tri-City United HS |
|
| Josh Neumann* |
DL |
6-2 |
270 |
Jr. |
Carriere, Miss. |
Pearl River Central HS |
Pearl River CC |
| Ben Newman |
DB |
5-11 |
180 |
Fr. |
Menomonie, Wis. |
Menomonie HS |
|
| Peyton Nigro |
DB |
6-0 |
180 |
Fr. |
Mokena, Ill. |
Lincoln-Way Central HS |
|
| Alex Olofson |
LB |
6-1 |
220 |
Fr. |
Berlin, Wis. |
Berlin HS |
|
| Mark O'Reilly |
DL |
6-5 |
225 |
Fr. |
Mokena, Ill. |
Lincoln-Way Central HS |
|
| Abe Schwartz |
QB |
6-0 |
185 |
Fr. |
Waukon, Iowa |
Waukon HS |
|
| Lance Siggens |
DL |
6-4 |
235 |
Fr. |
Woodbury, Minn. |
Woodbury HS |
|
| Malik Tatum* |
DB |
6-0 |
190 |
Jr. |
St. Paul, Minn. |
Central HS |
Ridgewater CC |
| Jay Tee Taylor |
WR |
6-3 |
175 |
Jr. |
Los Angeles, Calif. |
Franklin HS |
East Los Angeles College |
| Hunter Thompson* |
QB |
6-2 |
192 |
R-Fr. |
Sioux Falls, S.D. |
O'Gorman HS |
MSU Moorhead |
| Cris Wasylciw* |
OL |
6-7 |
335 |
So. |
Winchester, England |
Kings School |
Trinity Valley CC |
| Nathan Westbrook |
OL |
6-1 |
310 |
Fr. |
Van Buren, Ark. |
Van Buren HS |
|
| Mike Williams* |
WR |
6-1 |
180 |
Jr. |
Orange, Calif. |
Ooltewah HS |
Monterey Peninsula College |
| Isaac Woller |
WR |
6-3 |
200 |
Fr. |
Oconto, Wis. |
Oconto HS |
|
| * - currently enrolled at CSP for spring semester |
RECRUIT BIO INFORMATION (sorted alphabetically)
Andy Aune (LB, 6-3, 220, So., Golden Valley, Minn. / Hopkins HS / South Dakota)
University of South Dakota: 2017: Competed in four games for the Coyotes, recording four tackles (three solo) … registered three tackles in his career debut in a 77-7 win over Drake (9/2) … also had a tackle in week six against Indiana State in a 56-6 victory.
2016: Redshirted, did not compete … named Defensive Scout Team Player of the Week leading up to Indiana State game … MVFC Conference Honor Roll member.
Hopkins High School: A two sport athlete for the Royals, earning three letters in football and two in baseball … an All-Lake Conference performer and All-District selection … led the Lake Conference with 122 tackles as a senior and compiled 227 tackles in his three years on the prep gridiron … the senior captain had four career interceptions and helped the Royals to a pair of playoff wins throughout his career … honor roll student.
Personal: Has two brothers and a sister … will major in biology at Concordia.
Coach Currier on Aune: “Andy is a very athletic, driven and highly competitive linebacker. He's a transfer from the FCS level and has already impacted Golden Bear football in a very positive way. He brings the juice!"
Jordan Brown (RB, 6-0, 190, Fr., Coon Rapids, Minn. / Coon Rapids HS)
Coon Rapids High School: Two sport athlete for the Cardinals, competing in football and track & field … an All-Northwest Suburban Conference honorable mention selection … a two-way player, compiled 40 catches for 555 yards and 38 rushes for 285 yards with five total touchdowns while adding 62 tackles on defense … helped the Cardinals to a first round bye in section playoffs … also involved with senior leaders.
Personal: Has an older sister … will major in business at CSP.
Coach Currier on Brown: “Jordan is a versatile, instinctive athlete from the north metro. He will bring the ability to make plays on the offensive perimeter. His video shows a tough and hard-nosed football player."
Matthew Burks (OL, 6-3, 280, Fr., Diamond Bar, Calif. / Diamond Ranch HS)
Diamond Ranch High School: Named All-CIF, a two-time All-League selection earning first team and second team honors … a team captain … also played baseball and was involved in National Society of High School Scholars and AVID.
Personal: Has five siblings: four brothers and a sister … will major in business and finance … is interested in a career as a financial advisor and stock broker … one of his brothers played football at USC (2012-16).
Coach Currier on Burks: “Matt is a player that will improve the line of scrimmage play on the offensive side of the ball. His video demonstrates a big man moving very well and thrives on finishing plays. I expect him to contribute early in his career!"
Foster Conzet (LB, 6-1, 225, R-Fr., Plymouth, Minn. / Wayzata HS / Minnesota Duluth)
University of Minnesota Duluth: 2016: Redshirted, did not compete for the Bulldogs.
Wayzata High School: A two-sport athlete for the Trojans, earning four letters in track & field and three in football as a three year starter and two-way player (linebacker/running back) … a three-time All-Lake Conference performer … led the Trojans in rushing as a senior and was a two-time team leader in tackles … helped the Trojans to the state tournament as a senior team captain … as a sprinter on the track team, was a member of the two-time Lake Conference champion 4x200 relay team.
Personal: Has an older sister … will major in exercise science at Concordia … has three cousins who have played college sports: member of the University of Mississippi football team, member of Wisconsin-Green Bay women’s soccer now competing professionally in Cyprus and another as a member of UW-Eau Claire football.
Coach Currier on Conzet: “I'm very excited about this athletic linebacker. He's a transfer from UMD - he is going to be dynamite!"
Adam Cook (OL, 6-7, 330, Fr., New Hope, Minn. / Robbinsdale Cooper HS)
Robbinsdale Cooper High School: A four sport prep athlete for the Hawks, competing in basketball (4), football (3), lacrosse (2) and wrestling (1) … an All-Metro West Conference selection and team captain for the lacrosse team … led the Hawks to an 8-0 regular season and 2017 Metro West Conference championship … key blocker for a program that has produced 80-plus players to college football over the past eight years … received 21 offers from college football programs.
Personal: Has a younger brother … will major in business management … a President’s Scholarship recipient … intends to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Concordia.
Coach Currier on Cook: “Adam is one of the finest young men we have recruited. His commitment to our program and his team attitude is second to none. In addition, he is a very big man that moves extremely well. I can't wait to see him in the navy & gold!"
TJ Diallo (DL, 6-7, 305, Jr., Greensboro, N.C. / Southern Guilford HS / East Los Angeles College)
East Los Angeles College: 2017: Compiled 24 tackles in nine games for the Huskies … also had a pair of tackles for loss … had four tackles in season debut win over Orange Coast (9/2), adding a blocked kick … also had four tackles at Allan Hancock (9/9) the following week … produced three tackles and five tackles with a tackle for loss each in back-to-back games against Santa Ana (9/30) and Compton (10/7) … had a fumble recovery in a 71-13 win over LA Southwest (10/14) … had at least two tackles in eight of nine games played … helped the Huskies to a 7-3 record.
Georgia Military College: 2014: Played in nine games, making 11 tackles during freshman year … had four tackles at Nassau CC (10/4) … made three tackles against Tylre JC (10/11) … had a pair of tackles including one for loss and a fumble recovery against ASA College (9/14) … had a fumble recovery in career debut at Navarro College (8/23) … forced a fumble at College of DuPage (9/27).
Southern Guilford High School: Named 2013 All-Area honorable mention and All-Mid Piedmont 3-A All-Conference.
Personal: Plans to major in business with a sociology minor at Concordia and aspires to be an entrepreneur.
Coach Currier on Diallo: “I am very excited we have this big strapper from East LA College that so many other schools wanted. We are fortunate to have this force manning the middle of the defense for the Golden Bears!"
Robel Ezana (TE, 6-4, 250, Jr., San Diego, Calif. / Helix Charter HS / Crown College)
Crown College: 2017: Played in 10 games for the Storm, making 27 tackles including 3.5 for loss and a pair of sacks … had a season-high six tackles including 1.5 for loss and a sack against Eureka (9/23) … had a pair of tackles including a tackle for loss and sack against St. Scholastica (10/21) … had a fumble recovery and three tackles against Martin Luther (10/28) … had a blocked kick and pair of tackles against Westminster (10/14).
2016: Played in four games, making one tackle against Martin Luther (9/17) … made debut against Hamline (9/3).
Helix Charter High School: Helped the Highlanders to a regional championship.
Personal: Has a younger sister, Melat … will major in criminal justice with a psychology minor at CSP … will pursue a career with the FBI.
Coach Currier on Ezana: “Robel brings our program much added size and depth to the tight end position."
Richard Ficociello (DL, 6-3, 255, Fr., Wheaton, Ill. / Wheaton North HS)
Coach Currier on Ficociello: “This young man is a very athletic big man! He plays hard and is extremely physical. He has a great demeanor and will be another piece to improving our defensive line play."
Carter Geyer (WR, 5-11, 195, Fr., Coon Rapids, Minn. / Coon Rapids HS)
Coon Rapids High School: An All-Northwest Suburban Conference performer for the Cardinals … produced 67 catches for 663 yards and nine touchdowns between junior and senior campaigns, helping the Cardinals to a first round bye in the playoffs.
Personal: Has two younger brothers and a younger sister … will major in sport management … recipient of President’s Scholarship.
Coach Currier on Geyer: “Carter is a physical player on the perimeter with great hands from the land of 10,000 lakes. He will bring toughness to the wide receiver corps. I am excited to watch this Twin Cities product develop as a Golden Bear!"
Corey Guenther (DL, 6-2, 285, Fr., North St. Paul, Minn. / North HS)
North High School: A two-sport athlete for the Polars, earning five letters in wrestling and four in football … two-time All-Metro East Conference football player, earning the nod as a sophomore and senior … senior captain, finishing third on the team in tackles as a senior with 51 … a three-time All-Metro East Conference wrestler … three-time MSHSL state wrestling competitor and two-time All-State performer … compiled a career 110-33 record on the mat.
Personal: Has two sisters … will major in biology … a President’s Scholarship recipient.
Coach Currier on Guenther: “It's great to get one of the best prospects from the St. Paul area. I love his toughness, and his success as a wrestler demonstrates some of this. He will bring some much needed toughness to our defensive line."
TJ Hendrickson (WR, 5-11, 190, Fr., Berlin, Wis. / Berlin HS)
Berlin High School: Earned 9 combined letters as a four sport prep athlete: track & field (4), football (3), wrestling (1) and basketball (1) … named All-East Central Conference as both an offensive and defensive player … a consistent Region Player of the Week … during junior and senior season, combined for 2,208 yards and 32 touchdowns … from sophomore to senior year on defense, had 117 tackles, four interceptions, four forced fumbles and a fumble recovery for a touchdown … also had 24 kick returns for 344 yards … helped the squad to an East Central Conference championship … the team only had five total losses in his two years as a two way player and the program had a playoff win three years in a row … in track & field, placed first in East Central Conference and regionals in the long jump, took fourth in region and second in the conference in the 100m dash and was member of region and conference champion 4x100m relay team, taking fifth in sectionals.
Personal: Has two older brothers, Bryan and Brady … will major in business.
Coach Currier on Hendrickson: “Hendrickson is a shifty and explosive playmaker. He shows toughness and has a phenomenal Midwestern work ethic. We're very excited to have him in the 2018 signing class!"
Dontay Holmes (WR, 6-1, 175, Fr., Houston, Texas / Bellville HS)
Bellville High School: A two-sport athlete, competing in football and track & field … compiled 123 tackles, a pair of interceptions and forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and 397 all-purpose yards … a regional qualifier in track & field.
Personal: Has four brothers and a sister … will double major in kinesiology and criminal justice with a business minor.
Coach Currier on Holmes: “Dontay is a special teams guru! He is a long, athletic and electric playmaker from the Lone Star State. He will bring juice to our wide receivers group. He will immediately make an impact on our special teams units."
Thyrun Hurst (QB, 6-3, 189, Fr., Kingwood, Texas / Kingwood Park HS)
Kingwood Park High School: Named 2016 Offensive MVP for the Panthers … compiled 1,500 all-purpose yards and 10 touchdowns while making 10 tackles … a District honorable mention MVP.
Personal: Has an older sister and a younger brother … is interested in kinesiology, education, history and science … will pursue a career in coaching.
Coach Currier on Hurst: “Thyrun is a battle tested athlete who has grit but can slice and dice you. In his last game as a junior, he rushed the ball 52 times for his team. He is a dynamic athlete who is also a workhorse. We are very excited about this young man!"
Bryan Jenkins (DL, 6-4, 257, Fr., Compton, Calif. / Compton HS)
Compton High School: An All-League selection, producing 54 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and 10 sacks as a senior … added five pass deflections and a pair of forced fumbles.
Personal: Has an older brother and a younger sister … will major in business management and minor in finance … interested in a career in real estate.
Coach Currier on Jenkins: “Bryan is an incredibly athletic, long and explosive defensive end who will challenge for playing time as a true freshman. Furthermore, his ceiling as a football player seems to be very high. Like all of our guys, we are very excited about Bryan!"
Jeremiah Johnson (RB, 5-9, 215, R-Fr., Miami, Fla. / American HS / Akron)
University of Akron: Redshirted with the Zips.
American High School: A team captain for the Patriots, named team offensive MVP in 2014 and 2015 … one of the top-25 rushers in Miami Dade County (2013-15) … an All-Dade honorable mention running back … competed in Miami Dade North vs. South All-Star Game … South Florida Express Regional 7-on-7 Champion … rushed for 809 yards and 10 touchdowns, averaging 8.3 per carry in 2014-15 … rushed for 722 yards and four touchdowns in 2013-14, averaging 5.1 per carry … three-time district champion, helped the Patriots to a 9-2 record … produced his junior football totals while attending Alonzo and Tracy Mourning High School.
Personal: Has two brothers and two sisters … will major in business management … aspires to be a realtor and business owner.
Coach Currier on Johnson: “Jeremiah is an explosive running back transfer from the University of Akron. He has football all through his DNA. He is a tremendous addition for our program and I'm excited to see the ball in his hands this spring."
Keegan Larson (DL, 6-2, 250, Fr., Waterloo, Iowa / Cedar Falls HS)
Cedar Falls High School: A two-sport athlete for the Tigers, earning three football letters and two more in track & field … named All-State Third Team as a senior … a two-time All-Metro, All-District and team captain … racked up 81 tackles, 20 for loss, 10 sacks and an interception … led the Tigers to 4A State Playoffs a sophomore and a Co-District 5 title as a junior with a winning record each year … helped the Tigers to a 9-2 season as a senior, capturing another District 5 title en route to a 4A State Playoff quarterfinal run.
Personal: Has three sisters … will major in exercise science.
Coach Currier on Larson: “Keegan is a big, athletic defensive lineman who loves to play football. He will be a young man who will be a leader. He is a coach's dream because of his outstanding character, motor, academics and does everything asked of him."
Darion Manning (QB, 6-1, 225, Fr., Houston, Texas / Bellaire HS)
Bellaire High School: Put together 4,143 passing yards and 41 passing touchdowns while adding 579 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in two seasons as starting quarterback … a two-time All-District First Team quarterback, being named District MVP in 2017 … a four year varsity contributor and senior captain.
Personal: Has an older brother … intends to major in finance … aspires to be a commercial pilot.
Coach Currier on Manning: “Darion enters the Golden Bear football program after being the Offensive Player of the Year in his district (Houston). Darion is a big quarterback at 6'1" and 225 pounds who runs well and will be a multi-dimensional quarterback. We are very excited to watch him make football plays!"
Sam Marshalek (OL, 6-4, 285, Fr., De Pere, Wis. / West De Pere HS)
West De Pere High School: A team captain for the Phantoms … named All-Bay Conference … helped the Phantoms to a Bay Conference championship and a 10-2 record, reaching the third round of the playoffs.
Personal: Has an older sister … will double-major in exercise science and physical therapy with a kinesiology minor.
Coach Currier on Marshalek: “This big fella is a fantastic run blocker - he's very phsyical and highly regarded by his high school coaches. We expect him to compete early at CSP. He will be a key component for the Golden Bears to start dominating the line of scrimmage."
Mark Maumasi (DL, 6-2, 305, Jr., Mount Shasta, Calif. / Mount Shasta HS / Shasta College)
Shasta College: 2016: An All-Conference pick as a sophomore, making 27 tackles, four tackles for loss, a sack and two pass breakups in 11 games … helped the Knights to a 10-1 record, Pacific Conference Championship and tied the school wins record … had multiple tackles in nine games … had three tackles, a sack and tackle for loss against Mendocino (10/15) … had a pair of four tackle performances.
2015: An All-Conference honorable mention performer as a freshman, making 47 tackles with four sacks and eight breakups for the Knights … helped the team to a 9-2 finish, Pacific 7 Conference title and American Division Bowl championship.
Mount Shasta High School: A two-way player, was named All-Shasta Cascade League Conference as a linebacker and running back … a two-year captain, lettered twice each in football and basketball as a two sport athlete for the Bears … as a junior, rushed for 1,057 yards and 15 touchdowns with 113 total tackles … as a senior, rushed for 958 yards and 12 touchdowns with 156 total tackles.
Personal: Has three brothers and two sisters … will major in graphic design.
Coach Currier on Maumasi: “Mark will be a key ingredient to the upgrades of our defensive line. He is an absolute dominant junior college defensive tackle who will provide immediate punch to the CSP defense. I am very thrilled to have this big fella at CSP!"
Kyle McDonough (WR, 5-11, 190, Fr., Cottage Grove, Minn. / Park HS)
Park High School: Named All-Suburban East Conference at safety for the Wolfpack, earning three varsity letters in football … earned Most Dedicated Player award and named a senior team captain … earned the Senior Award for commitment to all four years of the programs … as a senior safety, compiled 43 tackles, four interceptions, a pair of forced fumbles and a fumble recovery … also produced 78 rushing yards on eight carries and a 25 yard touchdown reception.
Personal: Will major in exercise science … intends to continue in the field of personal training, strength & conditioning and potentially work towards further education in physical therapy.
Coach Currier on McDonough: “Kyle is a mature young man, he took time off from school after graduation. I am impressed with his maturity and desire for success. Furthermore, he is a talented wide receiver from the Twin Cities."
Dom McKinzy (QB, 6-0, 215, Sr., Kansas City, Mo. / Wyandotte HS / Northeastern State)
Northeastern State University: 2017: Played in four games with three starts for the Riverhawks … passed for 834 yards and five touchdowns while completing 50.9 percent (59-116-3) of his passes … finished with a 120.31 efficiency rating … passed for 323 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions against Pittsburg State.
2016: Named All-MIAA honorable mention and a two-time MIAA Offensive Player of the Week … played and started all 11 games in his first year in the MIAA … passed for 2,767 yards and 26 touchdowns while adding 169 rushing and one score on the ground … completed 48.6 percent (189-389-15) of his passes for a 122.7 efficiency rating … had three 300-yard passing performances and nine 200-plus yard passing games … passed for 300 yards and five touchdowns against Lindenwood, had 311 yards and two touchdowns against Pittsburg State the next week without an interception in either game … passed for 331 yards and two touchdowns against Missouri Southern … had eight games with two or more touchdown passes … finished the year with six straight 200-plus yard and 2-plus touchdown pass performances … had 263 yards and four touchdowns without an interception against Northwest Missouri State.
Hutchinson Community College: 2015: Played in all 11 games for the Blue Dragons, passing for 1,199 yards and 12 touchdowns while completing 57.1 percent (88-154-7) of his passes … had 188 yards on the ground on 57 carries with five rushing touchdowns.
University of Minnesota: 2014: Redshirted with the Golden Gophers, did not compete in a game.
Wyandotte High School: Earned four letters and was a two-time All-State performer in a prep career that also included University Academy … named a U.S. Army All-America honorable mention as a junior was named Kansas City-Atchison League Player of the Year as a senior … named to a high school all-star game following senior year before opting to enroll early at the University of Minnesota for the spring semester … named 2013 Sports Highlights Unlimited Kansas City Prospect of the Year … also named All-City, All-County and All-Area … passed for 2,527 yards and 26 touchdowns with 14 interceptions as a senior, adding 519 rushing yards and nine touchdowns … a three-sport prep star, also named All-State in basketball and track & field for the Bulldogs … competed in the playoffs four years in a row between his two prep stops … the three star recruit (ESPN, Rivals & Scout) was also offered by Iowa, Kansas and Nebraska before signing with Minnesota.
Personal: Has five siblings … is married and has a one year old daughter … will pursue a master’s degree in organizational leadership at Concordia … earned undergraduate degree from Northeastern State in general studies and his AA from Hutchinson Community College.
Coach Currier on McKinzy: “Dom is a dual threat quarterback and a seasoned veteran with extensive college football experience. His background, skills and abilities make him a valuable addition to the Golden Bear program."
Zach Mikel (DB, 5-11, 175, Fr., Lonsdale, Minn. / Tri-City United HS)
Tri-City United High School: A three-sport athlete for the Titans, earning 11 combined letters in wrestling (5), football (3) and baseball (3) while also earning three academics letters while being involved in National Honor Society and Business Professionals of America … was named the team’s Defensive Back of the Year as a junior and earned All-Minnesota River Conference honorable mention twice in wrestling and once in baseball … a wrestling team captain … compiled 65 tackles, 18 pass breakups, four interceptions with one returned for a touchdown and two forced fumbles between junior and senior seasons … a two-way player as a wide receiver and defensive back … helped the team to district and section championships as a sophomore with a 2015 MSHSL State Semifinal run.
Personal: Has a younger sister and a younger brother … will major in sport management … intends to pursue a master’s degree in sport management and aspires to work for a professional sports franchise.
Coach Currier on Mikel: “Zach brings toughness and grit to the Golden Bear secondary. Zach is another high character young man who has demonstrated great success on and off the field."
Josh Neumann (DL, 6-2, 270, Jr., Carriere, Miss. / Pearl River Central HS / Pearl River CC)
Pearl River Community College: 2017: Played in nine games, making 12 tackles for the Wildcats … made four tackles (three solo) against Hinds (9/21) … had five tackles and a fumble recovery in a 30-17 win at Southwest Mississippi (10/7).
2016: Had 19 tackles in nine contests, adding 4.5 tackles for loss and a sack … added a touchdown in the season finale against Copiah-Lincoln (10/29) … had five tackles and a half tackle for loss in his debut at Northeast Mississippi (9/1) … had four tackles, a sack and tackle for loss against Itawamba (9/29) … had a tackle for loss in five different games.
Pearl River Central High School: An All-State and All-8-5A Conference producer for the Blue Devils … helped the team to a 2016 district title with an 11-2 record … also competed in powerlifting.
Personal: Has two older brothers … will major in sport psychology with a minor in coaching … intends to pursue a master’s degree in exercise science.
Coach Currier on Neumann: “Josh brings a tremendous amount of fire and desire to the defensive front. He plays with an extremely high motor and can play inside and outside on the defensive line. He will make our defensive line-play better!"
Ben Newman (DB, 5-11, 180, Fr., Menomonie, Wis. / Menomonie HS)
Menomonie High School: A four-sport athlete for Mustangs, competing in football, basketball, track & field and tennis … named All-Big Rivers Conference First Team at defensive back … an All-Region special mention performer … amassed 112 career tackles with five interceptions, 11 pass breakups and five fumble recoveries … a key member of a strong program that went 22-3 in his junior and senior seasons including a run to the state semifinals in 2016 and a state quarterfinal finish as a senior … Mustangs were two-time undefeated Big Rivers Conference champions back-to-back in 2016 and 2017.
Personal: Has a younger sister and four brothers … will major in sport management … aspires to become a sports agent or general manager with a franchise … goal is to secure an internship with the Minnesota Vikings and Timberwolves.
Coach Currier on Newman: “Ben comes from a storied program. He knows what it takes to win and has a work ethic that is second to none. He is a versatile athlete who can play on both sides of the ball. We are excited to watch him grow at CSP!"
Peyton Nigro (DB, 6-0, 180, Fr., Mokena, Ill. / Lincoln-Way Central HS)
Lincoln-Way Central High School: A three-sport prep athlete for the Knights, competing in football, baseball and wrestling … an All-State, two-time All-Area, two-time All-Southwest Suburban Conference selection … team captain for the Knights, helping the team to a 10-2 record while making a quarterfinal run and a second place finish in the Southwest Suburban Conference standings … as a senior, made 63 tackles with a forced fumble, a blocked field goal and a touchdown and totaled 13 interceptions.
Personal: Has a younger sister … will major in criminal justice with a business minor … aspires to be an FBI agent in his career … has a cousin who is a Division II student-athlete at McKendree University
Coach Currier on Nigro: “Peyton is an outstanding get for CSP football. There won't be many true freshmen that will find their way to the game field. However, Peyton may be one of them. He is a well-rounded defensive back: physical, range, ball skills and coverage."
Alex Olofson (LB, 6-1, 220, Fr., Berlin, Wis. / Berlin HS)
Berlin High School: A three-sport athlete, competing in football, basketball and track & field … an All-East Central Conference linebacker and tight end as a two-way standout … team captain and a four year defensive play caller … as a senior, compiled 79 tackles in seven games, adding 16 tackles for loss, five sacks, a fumble and interception returned for touchdown … helped the team to a combined 26-7 record in three years including the program’s first playoff win in 25 years during his sophomore in 2015 … captured East Central Conference championship as a junior, the first conference title in 23 years … team won a playoff game in his junior and senior seasons.
Personal: Has two younger sisters … will take a pre-law academic path at CSP and is also interested in psychology, sociology and history … long term goal is to become an attorney.
Coach Currier on Olofson: “Alex is a physical linebacker from Wisconsin. He is going to be a great addition to an up and coming linebacker unit. I am excited about his future as a Golden Bear!"
Mark O’Reilly (DL, 6-5, 225, Fr., Mokena, Ill. / Lincoln-Way Central HS)
Lincoln-Way Central High School: Named All-Southwest Suburban Conference as a senior … had 37 tackles, seven sacks and two forced fumbles in helping the Knights to a 10-2 finish, finishing second in the Southwest Suburban Conference before making a quarterfinal run.
Personal: Has an older brother … will major in business.
Coach Currier on O’Reilly: “This long, athletic defensive end will be instrumental in helping us improve our defensive play along the line of scrimmage. His frame combined with his motor will make him a great player in the NSIC."
Abe Schwartz (QB, 6-0, 185, Fr., Waukon, Iowa / Waukon HS)
Waukon High School: A four sport prep athlete, earning 12 combined letters (3 each) in football, basketball, track & field and baseball … an All-State Second Team selection, also earning All-Area and a two-time All-District First Team selection … was a football and basketball captain and state participant in the 4x400m relay … passed for 3,434 yards and 38 touchdowns on 58.6 percent completions with just 16 interceptions … added 674 rushing yards (158 carries) and 15 touchdowns and made plays downfield with seven catches for 118 yards and two more scores … a two-way player, recorded 59 tackles and four interceptions while returning one interception and one punt for touchdown … helped the program compile a 28-6 record as a prep including an Iowa state championship as a senior.
Personal: Has an older sister and two brothers … will major in sport management … intends to graduate with a master’s degree in five years at CSP.
Coach Currier on Schwartz: “All that needs to be said is Abe Schwartz is a winner! Great quarterbacks lead their teams to points and wins. Abe succeeded in the mission as he led his team to a state championship."
Lance Siggens (DL, 6-4, 235, Fr., Woodbury, Minn. / Woodbury HS)
Woodbury High School: A four sport contributor to the Royals, earning 15 total letters in weightlifting (6), football (4), swimming (3) and track & field (2) … a senior captain, named All-Suburban East Conference and All-SEC honorable mention … also named Defensive Lineman of the Year and a two-time Weightlifter of the Year … produced 50 solo tackles, 18 tackles for loss, eight sacks, three fumble recoveries and a defensive touchdown.
Personal: Oldest of six in his family with three younger brothers and two younger sisters … will double-major in accounting and business management at Concordia.
Coach Currier on Siggens: “Lance is a long, dynamic defensive lineman who has a tremendous upside. He has been identified as a great leader. We are thrilled to have a big time player from the Twin Cities, specifically Woodbury!"
Malik Tatum (DB, 6-0, 190, Jr., St. Paul, Minn. / Central HS / Ridgewater CC)
Previous College Background: Attended St. Paul College, MCTC, Iowa Western CC and Ridgewater CC … earned Associate of Arts degree.
Central High School: An All-Twin City Conference honorable mention prep player … named Most Improved Player for the Minutemen.
Personal: Has two brothers and a sister … is interested in public policy and political science at Concordia … aspires to be an attorney, analyst and mentor in his future.
Coach Currier on Tatum: “Malik comes from down the street, where he played for St. Paul Central. We are always excited to include student-athletes from our hometown! So far in his time at CSP, he has been very meticulous in his preparation."
Jay Tee Taylor (WR, 6-3, 175, Jr., Los Angeles, Calif. / Franklin HS / East Los Angeles College)
East Los Angeles College: 2014: Named a 2015 CCCAA Triple Jump All-American during the spring of his sophomore year with the Huskies … played in seven games, hauling in 25 receptions for 351 yards and four touchdowns … had five catches for 103 yards and a touchdown with a long of 51 against Santa Barbara (9/20) … had six catches for 74 yards at Southwestern (10/18) and four catches for 72 yards and a touchdown at Desert (10/25) in back-to-back games.
2013: Led the Huskies with 49 catches for 725 yards and six touchdowns while playing in 10 games … had four 100-yard performances including his debut against LA Valley (9/7) with 7-116 and a touchdown … had a season-high nine catches in week four at Mt. San Jacinto (9/28) for 101 yards … finished the year with back-to-back 100-plus yard, two touchdown performances with 5-124 and a long of 74 in a 48-7 win over El Camino-Compton Center (11/9) and 4-142 and a long of 75 in a 31-17 win at San Diego Mesa (11/16).
Franklin High School: A three-sport athlete for the Panthers, earning letters in football, basketball and track & field … compiled 1,067 all-purpose yards and 15 total touchdowns with 584 receiving and 144 rushing … an All-City Section wide receiver … a two-time City Champion in the long jump (2012 & 2013) … helped the Panthers to LA City Division II runner-up finish.
Personal: Has five siblings: three brothers and two sisters … will double-major in psychology and business management with a sport management minor.
Coach Currier on Taylor: “Jay Tee is a multi-sport athlete with world class athletic ability. He is very explosive and will bring a high motor and explosiveness to the CSP offense. We are very excited to watch him help formulate a very strong wide receiver group."
Hunter Thompson (QB, 6-2, 192, R-Fr., Sioux Falls, S.D. / O’Gorman HS / MSU Moorhead)
MSU Moohread: Redshirted, did not compete for the Dragons.
O’Gorman High School: A two-sport athlete for the Knights, earning four baseball and three football letters … an All-Metro Conference selection … named All-City Offensive MVP … an Elite 45 pick … team captain, passed for 2,091 yards and 12 touchdowns and added 879 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns … had 46 tackles and five interceptions on defense … led the Knights to a South Dakota state runner-up finish in 2015 … helped the baseball team to a region tournament title in 2014.
Personal: Has a younger brother … will major in social studies education (5-12) at Concordia … aspires to teach and coach at the high school level … his mother played volleyball at the University of Tennessee … his aunt played basketball at the University of South Dakota … his uncle played football at Wabash College.
Coach Currier on Thompson: “Hunter is a very athletic, highly competitve football player who has played at a high level on both sides of the ball. We are very excited to have Hunter in our program!"
Cris Wasylciw (OL, 6-7, 335, So., Winchester, England / Kings School / Trinity Valley CC)
Trinity Valley Community College: Helped the Cardinals to a 9-3 record, averaging 462.8 yards of total offense and 41.3 points per game.
Kings School / Jourdanton High School: Played football and tennis as a prep … an All-District honorable mention selection.
Personal: Has a younger brother … will major in finance.
Coach Currier on Wasylciw: “Cris is a 6'7", 335 pound athletic offensive lineman who will make an instant impact to the Golden Bear line. We are very excited about his skill set, his current level of play and the three years of eligibility he brings to the program."
Nathan Westbrook (OL, 6-1, 310, Fr., Van Buren, Ark. / Van Buren HS)
Van Buren High School: Started all 10 games as a senior for the Pointers after playing 30 games including two years as a starter for Allen High School in Texas … an All-Conference performer, ranked as the top center in Arkansas for the class of 2018 by Arkansas Next Level … named Arkansas Preps River Valley Team … registered 55 pancakes and didn’t allow a sack in his 10 games as a senior … had 103 pancakes during prep career … compiled a combined 28-2 record at Allen High School in sophomore and junior seasons.
Personal: Has a brother and a sister … will major in theatre at Concordia … aspires to be an actor and filmmaker … his uncle played special teams for the University of Arkansas football team.
Coach Currier on Westbrook: “Nathan brings many talents to CSP. His foundation is from Allen, Texas where he was a starter as a sophomore. He is a big offensive lineman with a bulldozing mentality! We are excited to watch him create openings for the Golden Bear ball carriers."
Mike Williams (WR, 6-1, 180, Jr., Orange, Calif. / Ooltewah HS / Monterey Peninsula College)
Ooltewah High School: Competed in football for the Owls … also active in chess club.
Personal: Plans to major in communication studies.
Coach Currier on Williams: “Mike is a seasoned veteran to the college football game. He is an immediate playmaker who will bring instant production to the Golden Bear offense. Mike's prowess on the football field is second to none!"
Isaac Woller (WR, 6-3, 200, Fr., Oconto, Wis. / Oconto HS)
Oconto High School: Three-sport athlete for the Blue Devils, working towards 12 total letters (4 each) in football, basketball and track & field … an All-Packerland Conference First Team wide receiver and All-Packerland Conference Second Team defensive back as a senior, picking up honorable mention honors as a defensive back as a junior … a two-time captain for the football and basketball teams … topped 1,000 receiving yards between junior and senior seasons, going for 38-719 and 10 touchdowns as a senior and 22-401 and eight touchdowns as a junior … had seven interceptions between the seasons with five as a junior … had a kick return for touchdown as a senior … helped the team to a three win improvement and 7-3 record as a senior.
Personal: Will major in physical therapy at Concordia.
Coach Currier on Woller: "Isaac is a big, lengthy wide receiver with a tremendous upside. He is an extremely motivated and intelligent student-athlete. Isaac will improve our program in many ways."
