Welcome to our department website. The goal of this website is to keep you informed on what is happening with our many activities and to offer another means of communication. Please refer to this site frequently as changes occur daily. There are links that will be helpful as you follow our activities programs. The Minnesota State High School League and Hiawatha Valley League sites are great to stay in tune with Lake City activities.
To stay informed on all Lake City Activities click on “Activities Calendar” on the selection menu. For postponements, reschedules and cancelations check the activities calendar, T.V. cable channel 13/15 or Lake Hits Radio 94.9. If you have questions you can contact Activities Director, Trevor Narum or Activities Assistant Adam Schimbeno at 651-345-2850. You can also direct questions to tnarum@lake-city.k12.mn.us.
 | Weight Room Hours: Monday – Thursday 3:30 – 5:00 |
Welcome to the Athletic and Activities Department website. My name is Trevor Narum. I am honored to be serving the Lake City Schools and Community as your Athletic and Activities Director.
After teaching for 21 years at Bluff View Elementary in 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th grade I am now entering my third year as our district’s Activities Director and Assessment Coordinator. I also serve as our head football coach.
The goal of this website is to keep you informed on what is happening with our many activities and to offer another means of communication for those involved. Please check this sight frequently as changes occur daily. There are some sites that I have linked us to that I feel will be helpful as you follow our athletic and activity programs. The Minnesota State High School League and Hiawatha Valley League sites are great to stay in tune with Lake City happenings.
Feel free to contact me at any time!
tnarum@lake-city.k12.mn.us
651-345-2850
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs to attend the seasonal sports meetings?
What paperwork does my child need completed before the start of the sports season?
What is the price of admission to events?
What is the cost of an activity/season pass?
How do I get permission to take my child from a school activity in which they participate?
Who needs to attend the seasonal sports meetings?
Student/Athletes, Parents and Coaches should be in attendance. The sports meetings are held a week or two before the start of the season. All student/athletes in grades 7 to 12 who plan to participate should attend this meeting with their parents. Coaches from the different activities will have team meetings to go through the season schedule, team handbook, practice schedule, player expectations and answer any questions regarding the program.
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What paperwork does my child need completed before the start of the sports season?
Student/Athletes must have the following on record in the Activities Office before they are allowed to participate: 1. Athletic Eligibility and Health Questionnaire/Minnesota State High School League Eligibility Statement. (yearly) 2. Sports Qualifying Physical Examination Clearance Form (physicals must be within the last 3 years). 3. Insurance Waiver. (yearly) 4. Participation fees. Cost for 7th and 8th grade is $75, grades 9 thru 12=$95. There is a $340 family maximum. All paperwork and fees can be completed thru the online registration.
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What is the price of admission to events?
Adults $6, Students and Senior Citizens $4. Admission is charged for football, volleyball, soccer, basketball and wrestling.
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What is the cost of an activity/season pass?
Adults $60, Students and Senior Citizens $40. Activity/Season Passes will get you into all home activities (football, volleyball, soccer, basketball, wrestling) with the exception of Booster Club sponsored tournaments, sub-section competition and section competition.
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How do I get permission to take my child from a school activity in which they participate?
Ideally all student athletes that go to an event with a team on school transportation, come home with the team on school transportation. As a coach it is viewed as an important part of developing the team concept. At times there are circumstances that arise in which a parent needs to take their child from an event and the student does not use school transportation to come home with the team. In this situation we would like a parent to write a note, have the student deliver the note to the Activities Office and have the parent make a phone call to the Activities Office to verify the note. Parents can also email transportation requests to Mr. Vaith. The Activities Office will then contact the coach to make them aware of the situation. If a parent is unable to write a note, make the call or send an email, the student athlete will only be allowed to leave the event with a parent. If this is the case, we ask that a parent personally speak to the coach and write a note at the event.
Philosophy and Objectives
The purpose of extra-curricular activities in the Lake City Public Schools is to provide all students with an opportunity to participate in a variety of programs and to provide positive educational experiences as an adjunct to the academic program. The extra-curricular program shall be an integral part of the total educational process, be operated with the well being of the student in mind, and be governed by sound educational practice.
Goals and Objectives
Develop programs, provide facilities, provide coaching and commit resources so athletic participation becomes a reality for all students who desire to be in the athletic program.
Provide an equal opportunity to all students.
Provide interscholastic athletic participation on a more vigorous competitive basis than provided in intramural sports. This participation shall be guided by the MSHSL.
Provide opportunities to meet new situations whereby social and personal growth will be attained, and give inner satisfaction and enjoyment through the performance and participation.
Middle School Philosophy
The programs offered by the Lake City Public Schools are intended to provide fair and equitable opportunities for interested students to learn the fundamental skills, knowledge, and strategies of various athletic activities and to demonstrate these skills, knowledge, and strategies, in practice and game situations.
Senior High School Philosophy
The programs offered by the Lake City Public School are intended to provide participation of a more vigorous and competitive nature than that provided by the Middle School Program. A wide variety of activities will be offered and all interested students are encouraged to participate. Students must realize that being in activities is a privilege that carries with it defined responsibilities. It is a privilege to be on a team and an accomplishment of which a student should be proud. Each student should have a sense of achievement in contributing any way he/she can to the success of the team.
Goals for all Programs
Provide a feeling of belonging.
Teach accountability and commitment to one another and your teammates.
Learn to balance activities and academics.
Understand the value of participation, teamwork and good sportsmanship.
Understand goal setting – to give purpose to your best effort on a daily basis and to instill a strong work ethic.
Varsity and Junior Varsity (JV) Squad Participation Policy
It is the policy of the Lake City Activities Department to field teams in all activities at the Varsity and Junior Varsity Squad levels that are as competitive as possible. Keeping this in mind, any interested student is encouraged to compete for spots on teams at this level. Coaches will give fair and equitable treatment in terms of practice time and coaching attention to all participants subject to coach’s evaluation of the participant’s attendance at practice and games, personal behavior, respect for teammates and coaches adherence to rules of the game and to good sportsmanship, overall commitment to the game and improving his/her skill level. Playing time will be determined by the coach’s evaluation of each participant’s skill level in comparison to those of opponents with special consideration for each participant’s chance of success in each game situation. Additional experience will be provided in the following way:
Intrasquad scrimmages and games with teams divided evenly to assure good competition.
Schedule additional contests such as junior varsity for varsity non-starters.
Schedule tournaments for 7th, 8th and C squads.
Extra quarters and extra games for 7th and 8th grade squads.
Coaches contact opponents before games to arrange for game formats that will allow for expanded competition.
Schedule additional scrimmages against area schools for teams at all levels.
Reduction of Squad Size
Reduction of varsity squad size is necessary at some time in almost all sports. In many cases this reduction in squad size is necessary the end of the season for tournaments and comes naturally due to head to head challenges in practices and meets. In other cases the coaching staff based on practice and game observations must make these decisions. Coaches must do what they feel is best for the success of the team and choose players who will be best able to help the team.
In some team sports such as basketball, volleyball, baseball and softball only a limited numbers of players may be used during the entire season. This is necessitated by rule, staff and facilities. In these instances a tryout period will be conducted, after which the coaching staff may reduce the squad to a desired number. This procedure will be spelled out to all students wishing to tryout for the team before practice begins. Students not making the squad will be met with individually by the coaching staff and reasons for their not being retained will be given.
Eligibility Requirements
The following rules shall apply for student eligibility to participate in both practices and games for interscholastic athletics/activities at all levels (7–12).
- Must have a current physical on file in the Activities office (every 3 years).
- Must have a current parent permission and health questionnaire on file (yearly).
- Must have a signed copy of the MSHSL eligibility requirements on file (yearly).
- Must have insurance waiver on file (yearly).
- Must have paid the participation fee required for all activities. No student will be denied participation in activities because of the inability to pay the activity fee. They are to talk to the AD to see if arrangements can be made prior to beginning participation.
- Participation fees will be refunded only because of illness or injury, family emergency, or an athlete being cut from the squad.
- Once all forms are signed and turned into the Activities office and all fees have been paid students will receive a permit to participate form that must be turned into the coach.
- Academic Eligibility: Students must meet MSHSL and School District #813 eligibility requirements. The academic eligibility of a student shall be determined by the building Assistant Principal.
- Eligibility concerning MSHSL and School District #813 rules dealing with chemical use: Eligibility concerning chemical use violations will be determined by the building Assistant Principal. Records of ineligibility will be kept in the Activities office.
- Students must be in school all of the day or receive written permission from the building Principal to be eligible to participate that day in practice or a game.
- Students suspended from school for any reason will be ineligible for participation in practice, games, or meets on those days.
- Students are expected to be in school on time the day following an event.
Grievance Procedure
In any athletic program, no matter how well organized and no matter how well meaning the intentions of the staff and administration, problems can still arise. In many cases these problems are simply due to poor communication. In other situations the problem may be more serious. For these reasons, it is necessary to have a well-defined ladder of communication. This ladder must be made known to students and to parents so that the proper connections can be made and problems taken care of as efficiently and quickly as possible. For School District #813 the ladder of communication will be as follows:
- Player to Coach (Middle School, Assistant, Head)
- Parent to Coach
- Parent to Activities Director
- Parent to Building Principal
- Parent to Superintendent of Schools
- Parent to Board of Education
In case of any grievance, callers should be referred to the first people in the Ladder of Communication for satisfaction and then proceed from there. It is essential that the people who are working directly with the student be informed of the problem as soon as possible so that corrections can be made. This must be done in person or by telephone. Parents are asked to not confront a coach before or after a practice or contest. No discussion topics include: Playing Time, Team Strategy and other Student Athletes.
Do’s and Don’ts for Parents
As a parent of a young athlete, it’s your job to foster a positive environment for your child – and that takes discipline on your part. Here’s a quick checklist to help you do just that:
1. Avoid the P.G.A. (Post Game Analysis). Within minutes following the end of the game, players are usually in the family car heading home. It’s during the ride home that some well-meaning parents provide a postgame analysis of what the youngster did well, or not so well, during the game.
. “Why didn’t you shoot more when you were open?”
. “You need to move more on offense so your teammates will pass the ball to you.”
. “You need to adjust your stance…”
. “It looked like the other team’s defense had you flustered a bit.”
. “Your time at the split was slow… what happened?”
. “You didn’t hustle on defense much today: were you tired?”
. “Didn’t you see that so-and-so was open all the time?”
From the parent’s perspective, these observations seem like very valid points to discuss. “Besides”, says the concerned parent, “it’s important to go over what my child did in the game while the game is still fresh in his or her mind.” The problem is that these P.G.A.’s can quickly ruin the fun for your athlete. After all, who wants to be analyzed or criticized moments after leaving the court (and if friends are in the car, it can be even more demoralizing)? That’s the coach’s job. Mom and Dad, give your youngster a break – save your “constructive criticism” for later on in the evening or the next day and bring them up in a two-way conversation about the game – or better yet, not at all. After the game is the time to be positive and brief.
2. Don’t position yourself as the “perfect example”.“Here, let me show you how I used to play the game.” Have you ever said something like that to your child? Did you notice them roll their eyes, as in “oh-uh” here we go again”. Relax. If you’re like most parents, you want to help teach your child the basics through the benefit of your own experiences. But how do you do that without sounding like a know-it-all old-timer? In the mind of most children, there’s a fine line between teaching them the basic skills and trying to show off. Always remember that you’re supposed to be there for your son or daughter – not the other way around. Next time, wait until your child comes to you and asks for guidance. That’s the most effective approach for you and the child.
3. Avoid screaming or yelling inappropriately from the sidelines or stands at games.If you have to make noise, make sure you are offering praise and support. There’s not a young player on the playing surface who wants to hear their parent yelling at the officials, the coach, other players, or worse yet, themselves. Set a good example for other adults by praising good plays on the opposing team as well. In other words, somebody has to be the grown- up at these games – it might as well be you!
4. No need to provide “play by play” broadcast from the stands. Ever hear a parent literally directing every play on the court? Okay, Johnny, bring the ball up…now, find the open man…that’s right, pass it to Mark…Mark, take the shot! Max, be sure to get in position for the rebound!” You get the idea. Drop the play-by-play. Just let the kids play. They really don’t need your instruction while they’re playing and enjoying the game. And, it can make it difficult for your child’s coach to direct the game. After all that is the coach’s job, right?
5. Don’t take the game more seriously than your child. Your job, as the parent, is to provide positive support for your child; regardless of how well they play or who wins. Whether they score the winning basket, goal or touchdown; or they end up on the wrong end of a lopsided score; give them a sincere pat on the back. Your child is going to monitor your reactions to their performances. If they see your mood go sour after a bad game, they’re going to pick up on that and react in a similar fashion. Teach them to maintain an even balance in the face of victory or defeat and both of you will benefit.
Minnesota State High School League – Team Up for Sportsmanship
Tips for Parents
Be Supportive of Coaches
In front of your child be supportive and positive of the coach’s decisions. If you have problems with what the coach is doing, it is best to talk directly with the coach.
Teach Respect for Authority
There will be times when you disagree with a coach or official but always remember they are trying their best and are trying to be fair. Show good sportsmanship by being positive.
Let the Coach do the Coaching but you can do some of the Teaching
When your child is on the field, court, or ice, let the coach do the coaching. You can teach sportsmanship and how to deal with success and failure. Develop their character and teach life skills that athletics and activities bring to the forefront.
Help your Children Learn through Failure
The way your child handles failure can help them to face the certain failures life will throw them in the future. The worst time for you as a parent to give advice is immediately after a disappointment. Let your child cope in their own way.
Get to know the Coach
Since the Coach has a powerful influence on your child, take the time to attend the preseason parent meeting and get to know the coaches’ philosophy, expectations, and guidelines.
Focus on your Child as an Individual
Focus on what your child does well and where they need to improve. Encouragement is essential.
Listen to your Child, but Stay Rational
Always support and list to your child, but remember to stay rational until you have investigated the situation.
Be Mindful of your Role as a Role Model
Take a good honest look at your actions and reactions in the athletic arena. These actions are a big cue to your child and to the others around you.
Show Unconditional Love
The most important…show your child you love them, win or lose.
Minnesota State High School League Parent Guide
The Role of the Parent
Much of the joy of being a high school sports parent comes from watching your children compete in athletic events. There are very few kids who are not bolstered by looking into the stands and seeing their parents cheering for them. As part of their responsibilities, parents should be involved in their
Childs educational process, this includes being actively involved in after school activities. Fortunately, the majority of parents behave appropriately at school sporting events. But those who misbehave can spoil it for all the rest. It takes only a few out-of-control parents to ruin what should be a pleasant atmosphere into one that is stressful for everyone.
In addition to some of the obviously inappropriate actions, such as profanity, use of chemicals, throwing of objects and the like, the following rules of thumb for personal behavior should be followed.
* Express interest, encouragement and support to your child and to the coaching staff.
* Learn the rules of the game so that you may understand and appreciate why certain situations take place.
* Lend a hand when a coach or school administrator asks for help.
* Recognize and show appreciation for an outstanding play or achievement by either team.
* Inappropriate and/or harassing comments should not be made to athletes, parents, officials or coaches of either team.
* Shouting out instruction or criticism may hinder the overall experience of the student-athlete.
* Negative comments and gestures of displeasure toward the coach, visiting team, or officials, only undermine the efforts of all involved.
* Remember that interscholastic athletics and activities are learning experiences for students and that mistakes are sometimes made. Praise students in their attempt to improve themselves as students, as athletes and as people, as you would praise a student working in the classroom.
Good sportsmanship among all spectators is a goal worth working for, but especially for parents, who have the obligation not only to control their behavior, but to also remind others around them of their responsibilities when necessary. When parents misbehave, it is the duty of other parents and school administrators to step in and correct the situation. A simple rule of thumb for all spectators to follow is that absolutely nothing in their actions should interfere with any youngster’s enjoyment of the game.
Minnesota State High School League Parent Guide
Kids Perspective on Participation
The top three positive outcomes that student participants have experienced through athletic participation:
* Teamwork and cooperation with peers
* Time management, self-discipline, commitment, responsibility, and respect for authority
* Fun
The top three negative outcomes that student participants have experienced through athletic participation:
* Too much time away from studies
* People expect more from an athlete
* Too much pressure to win (from parents and self)
The three most selected qualities that student participants enjoy most about their coaches:
* Inspires and motivates me to perform at my best
* Cares about and respects players as individuals
* Gives a lot of his/her time
The top three things that students participants appreciate MOST about their parents’ attitudes toward their participation in athletics:
* Encouragement
* Attendance at games/contents
* Opportunity to participate in sport(s) of student’s choosing
School activities and athletics instill a sense of school pride.
* 96% Strongly agree/agree
* 2% Disagree
* 2% No Opinion
Students who participate in school activities and athletics tend to be school leaders:
* 88% Strongly agree/agree
* 6% Disagree
* 6% No Opinion
Participating in school activities provides and opportunity to develop self-discipline not necessarily found in the classroom:
* 93% Strongly agree/agree
* 4% No Opinion
* 3% Disagree
How much pressure is there on you to win?
* 73% About right
* 13% Too much
* 10% Not enough
* 4% None
Minnesota State High School League – Listening to Students Survey
Sportsmanship Expectations
The Student Athlete:
1. Live clean, play hard. Play for the love of the game.
2. Win without boasting.
3. Respect officials and accept their decisions at all times.
4. Never forget that you represent our school.
The Coach:
1. Make it Fun.
2. Inspire a love for the game.
3. Teach that it is better to lose fairly than win unfairly.
4. Lead players and spectators to respect officials by setting a good example.
The Spectator:
1. Keep Emotions and Attitude in Balance.
2. Appreciate a good play, no matter who makes it.
3. Know the school gets the praise or blame for your conduct.
4. Speak up when others are being poor sports.
Sportsmanship Creed
Good sportsmanship is strived for in all events. Good sportsmanship is a responsibility of players, coaches, faculty, cheerleaders, students, adult spectators, officials, and the media. Promotion of good sportsmanship and all athletic events should include demonstration of respect for opponents and officials. All involved should maintain self-control throughout the contest. Rules of the event should be understood and skill and performance should be recognized regardless of team affiliation. Good sportsmanship is the cornerstone of quality athletic programs.
Behavior Expectations at Events – as recommended by the Minnesota State High School League
1. Respect our flag and National Anthem.
2. Use Appropriate Language: No profanity, negative chants, booing, trash talking or name calling.
3. Respect Everyone – Treat each person the way you would want to be treated. Personal attacks and taunting are unacceptable.
4. Respect the Game – Do not interfere with it.
5. Display only positive signs and do not use noisemakers.
Sportsmanship is everyone’s responsibility. Any spectator in violation of expectations will be subject to consequences based on the severity and/or frequency of the offense. Penalties can vary from warnings, suspension up to one year or trespassing Notice/Referral to Lake City Police.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs to attend the Pre-Season Sports Meetings?
Pre-Season Sports Meetings are intended for all Student Athletes and Parents. Coaches will to go thru the season schedules, team handbooks, practice schedules and answer any questions regarding the program. These Parent/Athlete meetings are held prior to the Fall, Winter and Spring seasons with Parents and Athletes expected to attend each season in which they participate.
What Athletic and Fine Arts Activities does Lake City offer?
Boys CC Boys Basketball Adapted Bowling Jazz Band
Girls CC Girls Basketball Baseball Solo Ensemble
Football Dance Team Softball Math League
Volleyball Wrestling Boys Golf All School Play
Girls Tennis Weight Room Girls Golf One Act Play
Boys Soccer Robotics Boys Tennis Speech
Girls Soccer Boys T & F Chamber Choir
Weight Room Girls T & F Bel Canto
Weight Room
Transportation Requirements and Guidelines – The school encourages and requires all extracurricular participants to ride school transportation with the following exceptions:
1. Prior notification: email or phone call to the Activities Office and we will inform the coach.
2. Parent on site: talks to the coach and gives them a written note.
*No neighbors, friends or relatives will be allowed to take students.
School Cancellation – if school is cancelled or there is an early release the following applies:
1. If school is let out early due to poor conditions there will be no practice at any level.
2. If school is cancelled: allow for discretion of the Superintendent/Principal/Activities Director to conduct Varsity practice only if weather conditions improve later in the day.
What is the cost to attend events?
Admission to events is $6 for Adults & Senior Citizens and $4 for Students. Admission sports include Football, Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball and Wrestling. Activity Passes can be purchased at a cost of $60 for Adults, $40 for Students and Senior Citizens. Activity Passes will get you into all home activities with the exception of Booster Club sponsored events, Sub-Section competition and Section competition.
How do I keep current on schedule/competition changes?
1. School Channel 13
2. Lake Hits Radio 94.9
3. Websites: a. www.lake-city.k12.mn.us (Go to the Activities Home Page)
b. www.mshsl.org (Minnesota State High School League)
c. www.hvlconference.org (Hiawatha Valley League)
*If you would like changes emailed to you set up a “Notify Me” account on the Activities Calendar.
How can I help?
Being a member of the Lake City Athletic Booster Club is an opportunity for parents to contribute and be involved. Community members have volunteered their services and skills since 1988 to help supplement our Activities programs. Meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of the Month. All Athletic programs are involved and benefit.
Coaching Opportunities
Lake City Public Schools is currently taking applications for the following coaching positions: Winter Coaching Positions Head Speech Spring Coaching Positions Head Softball Boys Junior High Track
To apply send (or email) letter of application and resume to: |
| Contact: Trevor Narum |
2024 Hall of Fame Social and Induction Ceremony
The 2024 Hall of Fame Social and Induction Ceremony will be held on Saturday, October 12th at Lincoln High School. There will be a social hour in the Foyer and Gymnasium beginning at 6:00 p.m. with hor d’ oeuvres and refreshments served followed by the Induction ceremony at 7:00 p.m. in the Auditorium.
This year’s honorees are Ben Schramski in the category of Athletics, Lisa Wallerich in the category of Fine Arts, Steve Randgaard and Jim Roforth for Outstanding Contribution, Mark Heise in the category of Outstanding Life’s Work and the Class of 1966 Football Team in the Team category.
Inductees will also be recognized at halftime of the home Football game on Friday, October 11th.
Tickets for the event will be on sale at the door. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students. There will be no advanced ticket sales.
Class of 2021
John Pat Kennedy is a 1979 graduate of Lincoln High School where he was a multi-sport standout leading the football team to the State Semifinals, the Basketball team to consecutive State titles and competing in the State Track & Field meet. Pat was All-Conference multiple times in all 3 sports. Kennedy also made his mark at the College level as a 4-year starting point guard for Mankato State University.
John Blondell, a 1978 grad, resides in Santa Barbara, California where he has taught, professed and directed for Westmont College since 1988. In 1992, John co-founded the Lit Moon Theater Company, and developed a signature, visual theatrical form that has been seen on three continents in over 90 full productions. Since 2000, John has enjoyed an international directing career and has developed a specialty for directing in languages he does not speak and most recently pioneered a new form of live, international theater, networked in real time over the internet.
Paul Holland served as the Band Director at Lincoln High from 2001 to 2020. Paul had an appreciation for all forms of music and was “at home” on stage whether conducting the Concert Band at Lincoln or playing guitar and singing for local bands, Revenge, Cadillac Ranch or Backlash. He was a true showman and loved entertaining. Mr. Holland also had a passion for the Marching Band and the Tiger Band was regularly at the top of their class and always a fan favorite. Paul was also committed to serving the community and was honored to receive the key to the City of Lake City in 2020.
Shawn Sweeney arrived in Lake City in 1979 when he accepted a job teaching English. Shawn taught full-time English for the first 8 years , and one class of English in his final 6 years. In 1987 he joined the Physical Education department and retired in 2012. Sweeney also served the school as Head Girls Basketball Coach from 1979-2000 and led the Boys Basketball program from 2005-2013. His teams accumulated over 400 victories. Coach Sweeney was also the Head Football coach from 1984-1988 along with lower level coaching positions through the years in the basketball and football programs. Shawn has also found time to officiate boys and girls basketball. Sweeney was also the Lake City Recreation Director for 35 years and manager of the swimming pool where he was a mentor to numerous young people.
Jack Powers, a 1947 graduate of Lincoln High School, continued his education at Moorhead State University. After college Jack enlisted in the Navy followed by earning his Master’s Degree from Iowa State University. The family then moved to Berkley, California where Jack studied at California Berkeley. In 1960 he accepted a teaching position at Concordia College in Moorhead where the family permanently settled. Jack taught in the Biology department for 38 years where he taught Entomology and continued as a life long insect collector.
1983 Girls Basketball Team was inducted in the team category. Team Co-Captains Lisa Christians and Shannon Springer spoke on behalf of the team. In the Region 1A semifinal game the Girls defeated Austin Pacelli 46-45 then in the Region Finals knocked off Zumbrota 36-34 avenging two regular season losses. At State the team opened with a 50-49 victory over Benson followed by a 44-38 win over Janesville. The Tigers dropped the title game to Henderson by the score of 52-31 to earn the Class A Runner up trophy. The team finished with a season record of 21-5.
Class of 2018
Brian Sprout is a 1998 graduate of Lincoln High School where he was a 3-year starter in football, 2-year starter in basketball and 3 years on the varsity baseball team. As a football player Brian lead the team to the State playoffs his senior year and was area Player of the Year and was selected to play in the State All-Star game. Sprout also made his mark at the College level as a 2 time All-American in baseball at St. Olaf and also played at the professional level with the Dodger minor league system and with the St. Paul Saints where he was a 2 time All-Star.
Bob Ruberto was the Lincoln High School Choir director for 25 years. During his time at Lincoln Bob instilled his passion for music to nearly 4000 students. Lake City Choirs and Soloists routinely brought home top sectional honors. Bob’s love of theatre and the opera saw him to bring Handel’s Messiah and musicals such as Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera to the Lincoln stage. After retirement Bob gave private voice lessons and formed the professional singing group, “Quintessence”.
Jim Klennert has spent the last 30 plus years as Building and Grounds Supervisor at Lincoln High School. Jim’s dedication to the District, it’s employees and the community knows no bounds, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Jim’s diversification is evident when he puts on his hat as; a mechanical engineer; construction worker (Built the New Greenhouse) and the multitude of other tasks he is charged with. Jim works “behind the scenes” to make Lake City Schools the best they can be.
Lorne McDonald graduated from Lincoln High School in 1952. While in High School Lorne held leadership roles in many groups, student council president, senior class president and in Athletics and Fine Arts programs. Lorne was inducted into the 2010 Hall of Fame as a member of the undefeated 1949 football team. His career involved fiscal responsibility for the DIACRO company and Meyer Industries in Red Wing leading Lorne to serve and an ISD 813 School Board member for 6 terms (18 years).
Ron Schrimpf, a 1977 graduate of Lincoln High School, attended the University of Minnesota and obtained his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering in 1986. Ron was a Professor of Electrical and Computer Science at the University of Arizona from 1986 to 1996. Ron is currently the Director of the Institute for Space and Defense Electronics at Vanderbilt University. The Institute currently has a satellite in orbit and works with companies like SpaceX and OneWeb. Ron has authored nearly 500 publications and given roughly 200 presentations in the field of Electrical Engineering.
The 1972 Baseball team was inducted in the team category. Team Captain Dave Tackmann spoke on behalf of the team. The team finished the season with a 17-3 record. In the single class days small schools had to beat the big schools from Rochester and the perennial powerhouse team from Austin, the Packers. But 1972 saw the Tigers beat the Packers in the Regional final 3-2. After losing their first game 9-2 to eventual champ Richfield, the Tigers beat Marshall 5-3 and Luverne 5-1 to claim the Consolation Championship. Team members included: Kevin Corrigan, Dan Coyle, Pete Coyle, Rick Dison, Tom Eggenberger, Scott Moe, Tom Hasse, Al Harteneck, Don McNee, Steve Preble, Steve Prigge, Terry Steffenhagen, Dave Tackmann, Jim Tackmann, Manager Ted Johnson, Statistician Dan Neubert, Assistant Coach Jerry Snyder and Head Coach Bill Kieffer.
Class of 2016
Lance Meincke is a 1996 graduate of Lincoln High School where he still holds the Boys Basketball scoring record of 1852 points. Upon graduation from High School Lance enrolled at Winona State where he was a 4-year starter while earning first team All-Conference and All-American honors his junior and senior seasons.
Leo Fausch was a long-time High School teacher and assistant coach in the Boys Basketball program serving under 4 head coaches over 42 years. Leo’s “B”/”JV” teams accumulated over 500 victories in that span. Fausch played a vital role as a loyal assistant and preparing players for the Varsity level in a program that earned 4 State tournament appearances and 3 Championships.
Howie Cook served as an elementary school teacher for 40 years and is currently in his 38th season as Head Coach for Cross Country and 30th season at various levels with the Track and Field program. Under Coach Cook’s guidance the Cross Country program has had a representative (individual or team) at the State meet each year since 1984. In that time Lake City has had 25 boys and/or girls teams qualify with 7 of those teams placing in the top 3. Between Cross Country and Track & Field Coach Cook has coached well over 100 All-State athletes.
Gordy Hinck, a 1960 graduate of Lincoln, attended Brown Institute in Minneapolis then went on to Grinnell, Iowa in 1963 to start his nearly 50 year career in radio. Gordy was the voice for KDHL radio for the majority of those years as he became one of the most recognizable figures in southeast Minnesota through his support and commitment to the high school sports community.
Carole Haessig-Mutzebaugh graduated from Lincoln in 1955. Carole received her BS in Nursing from the University of Colorado in 1967 followed by her MS in 1969 and Ed.D. in Administration, Curriculum and Evaluation in 1980. Carole has served the Nursing profession in many roles including Professor and Chair of Nursing at Colorado State University. Mutzebaugh has also been cited in countless publications and research work.
The 1955 football team will be inducted in the team category. This team finished the season with a perfect 8-0 record while outscoring opponents 294 to 33. The Tigers finished the season ranked 18th in the state out of 292 teams. Team Members included:
Seniors Lynn Bronkhurst, Larry Geisler, Jim Goihl, Dick Bronkhorst, Bill Beck, Gene Wiebusch, Ron McGrath, Vic Bouquet, and Dick Butler; juniors Rod Peterson, Bill Behrens, Norm Bussian, John Bayley, Jim Beck, Pat Wise, Gene Tushaus, and George Barnum; and sophomores Jim Anderson, Jim Brusehaver, Jerry Wiebusch, and Dennis Anderson. Team manager was Allan Peterson. Members of the Junior Varsity team were juniors Curt Peters, Wayne Hawkins, Don Butler, and Chuck Kriett; sophomores Dave Britton, Byron Peterson, Jim Behrens, Bill Berg, Pat Maloy, Mike Sweeney, Andru Peters, Tom Brasseur, Bob Pearson, Peter Luikart, and Jerry Berg; and freshmen Joe Wise, Tom Klindworth, Wayne Steffenhagen, Eugene Becker, Paul Vining, Carl Moechnig and Marvin Howatt. Head Coach Tom Mahoney, Assistant Coaches Stan Peterson, Walt Williams, Bob Sershen.
Class of 2014
Jenny Dittfach is a 1991 graduate of Lincoln High School where she was an outstanding basketball player. Upon graduation from High School Jenny enrolled at Anoka Ramsey Community College where she earned a full scholarship to the University of Indiana. Today she resides in Bloomington, Indiana where she operates a home child care business and stays active with youth sports organizations.
Jim Sprout is a 1975 graduate of Lincoln High and still resides in Lake City as an employee of the Lake City Nursing Home/Hospital. Since 1988 Jim has repeatedly and unselfishly gone out of his way to promote Lake City schools. Through his efforts as a football and basketball official, baseball umpire, volunteer coach of several youth teams and active member of multiple school organizations Sprout has demonstrated his long standing commitment to our community.
Lisa M. Tillmann Ph. D. graduated from Lincoln in 1989. Lisa enrolled at Marquette University and graduated in 1993 with a double major in Communications and Rhetorical Studies along with double minor degrees in Philosophy and Sociology. She followed these degrees by earning her Ph.D. from the University of South Florida in 1998. Today Lisa is the Associate Professor of Communication at Rollins College in Orlando, Florida.
The 1978-79 Boys Basketball team finished with a perfect 26-0 record winning 25 of 26 games by 13 or more points and yielding just 32.7 points per contest on their way to a second consecutive State Championship. Team Members include: Randy Breuer, Chip Comadoll, Steve Haeska, Sid Hegseth, Pat Kennedy, Joe Russell, Boyd Snyder, Scott Swanson, Richie Daman, Norm Hadeler, Paul Schrieber, Dan Tackmann, Glen Roberson, Jim Roschen, Todd Keiffer. Student Managers Dean Spring, Paul Benedict. Head Coach Jerry Snyder, Assistant Coach Leo Fausch.
The 1997 Girls Cross Country team was dominating at the State competition with 5 runners in the top 22 of the team portion of the meet. To date, this is the single Girls Team State Championship for Lincoln High. Team Members include: Katie Fuhrman, Ashli Miller, Amanda Ostgulen, Beth Sexton, Tessa Pierson, Deanna Harvey, Ryan DeRoos, Carie Fuhrman, Marsha Thoe, Sarah Schmidt, Sandy Moyer. Head Coach Howie Cook, Assistant Coaches Jim Anderson and Kristen LaPlante.
Class of 2012
William Beck is a 1956 graduate of Lincoln High School where he was an outstanding football player. William was an all-conference fullback and captain of the squad. He took his talents to the collegiate level at Gustavus Adolphus College where he earned all-conference and was selected to the NAIA Little All-American Team. After college he was drafted into the NFL and AFL. Beck was inducted into the Gustavus Adolphus Hall of Fame in 1989.
George Olson is a 1954 Lincoln High graduate. George received his B.A. degree from Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. Olson taught at the prestigious College of Wooster in Ohio for 37 years before his retirement in 2000. George served six educational sabbaticals, four of which were in London at the Chelsea Physic Garden and the British Museum which qualified him to conduct exhibitions and illustrated lectures.
Henry Dison, a long-time Math Teacher and Coach for the Tigers, started the Lake City Tennis programs for both the boys and girl back in 1980 and still remains on the coaching staff today. Henry was a graduate of Rochester High School where he was a State Champion doubles player in 1950 and 1951. At the collegiate level Coach Dison played two years at the University of Minnesota and two years at Mankato State University.
Dr. Gene Hunder, a 1950 graduate of Lincoln High School, continued his education at St. Olaf college and then on to the University of Minnesota for pre-med. Dr. Hunder finished #3 in a class of 120 doctors graduating from the University of Minnesota Medical School. Gene completed his residencies at the University of Rochester and at Mayo in internal medicine and Rheumatology before joining the staff of the Mayo Clinic where he served for 48 years.
The 1989-90 Boys Basketball team is our inductee for the team category. This State Championship team captured Lincoln High School’s third Boys Basketball title finishing with a season record of 26-2. Speaking on behalf of the team was Brent Meincke. Other team members in attendance included Erik Brunkow, Gary Brown, Tony Wise, Paul Schad, Erik Sievers, Tony Heise, Brett Stolzenberg, Chris Sommerfield, Cris Gastner, Trent Sanders and Keith Zanto. Head Coach Jerry Snyder and Assistant Coach Leo Fausch were also there for the celebration. Team members not in attendance but still recognized included Brock Lortscher, Troy Diepenbrock, Jason Oeltjen, Duren Moses and Terry Walker.
Class of 2010
Eugene “Gene” Wiebusch graduated from Lincoln High School in 1956 where he was an outstanding all-around athlete. Gene excelled in football, basketball, baseball and track & field while earning all-conference in 3 sports and all -state football. After high school he attended Mankato State College where he continued to participate in three sports. Following his high school mentor, Arlan Johnson, Gene continued is leadership, team play and determination into the teaching and coaching field. Gene spent 37 years teaching Industrial Technology and coaching during his tenure in Janesville, Minnesota.
Robert Olson is a 1951 Lincoln High graduate. He received his BA Degree in music from the University of Minnesota and accomplished a career as both a professional musician and a teacher. Bob’s early years found him playing orchestras of the University of Minnesota, Rochester, Duluth and St. Paul Pops. He has been a member of several professional orchestras; Kansas City Symphony, Minneapolis Symphony, Santa Fe Opera and Boston Symphony Orchestra from 1967 until his retirement in 2003.
Barbara “Barb” Knutson graduated from Lincoln High School in 1962. Barb attended Winona State College and received degrees in Physical Education and Art while participating in several interscholastic and intramural sports. Barb’s first three years of teaching were at Winona Senior High School and then for 30 years at Mankato West/ Mankato High School where she was involved in a myriad of activities. Barb has received many honors including induction into the Winona State Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992 and into the Minnesota State High School League Hall of Fame in 1998 along with receiving a Distinguished Alumni Award from Winona State University.
Bill Kieffer a Vermillion, Minnesota native and graduate of Hastings High School, arrived in Lake City to teach Industrial Arts and coach in the fall of 1956 after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Stout and also having taught from 3 years in Breckinridge, Minnesota. Kieffer whose son Todd accepted the award on behalf of the family was long time teacher and coach for Tigers working with football, golf and baseball programs from 1957-1981. Coach Kieffer made his most notable mark in the baseball program where he led Lake City to several championships including a State Consolation Title in 1972. Kieffer has also been inducted into the UW Stout Athletic Hall of Fame and the Minnesota State High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. The local varsity baseball field was named “Bill Kieffer Field” in the Spring of 2008. Bill passed away in 2002.
The newest category is the Team. The undefeated 1949 Football Team is the inaugural inductee for this category. Speaking on behalf of the team was all-conference player Gene Hunder. Hunder, along with teammates Duane Schafer, Walter Sprick, Loren McDonald and Rod Eggenberger were honored at the ceremony. This team has the distinction of being the first undefeated football team for Lake City finishing 8-0 on for the season including 4 shutout victories. They totaled 199 points while giving up only 37. Victories for the team include wins over Stewartville, St. Felix of Wabasha, Kenyon, Zumbrota, Pine Island, Farmington, Cannon Falls and Plainview.
Class of 2008
Holly Duncan Diepenbrock grew up in Lake City and after graduating in 1992 from Lincoln High School went on to furthered her education and compete at the collegiate level for Iowa State University from 1992-1996. She received numerous awards for her golfing skills. Holly is a member of the Ladies Professional Golf Association and is Class A LPGA Certified. She has been both an Assistant Golf Professional and a Head Golf Professional. Holly was inducted in the category of Athletics.
Robert “Bob” Parrott was born and raised in Lake City graduating from Lincoln High School in 1959. His accomplishments are countless and date back for over 20 years of service and commitments to not only Lake City Public School, but to the community of Lake City. Bob will always be best known as the guy who takes pictures! Bob was inducted in the category of Outstanding Contribution.
Wayne Steffenhagen grew up on a farm in rural Lake City graduating from Lincoln High School in 1959. Wayne went on to graduate from the University of Minnesota. He begins his career in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, then moving to Coon Rapids, Minnesota. From there it was Steven Point, Wisconsin and finally making his way to D.C. Everest High School in Scofield, Wisconsin where he has spent 30 years teaching and coaching. Coach Steffenhagen has coached teams to 5 State football championshis and earned many honors for his coaching accomplishments. Wayne was inducted in the category of Outstanding Life’s Work.
Class of 2007
Cole Black graduated from Lincoln in 1950. After graduation he joined the Navy. Seven days from the end of his second combat cruise during the Vietnam War, Capt. Black was shot down and captured, spending over 2,428 day as a POW. He served honorably on active duty for over 35 years. 3 weeks after the Hall of Fame induction ceremony Capt. Black was tragically killed in a plane crash in California.
David Danckwart graduated from Lincoln in 1966. In 1970 he graduated from Winona State with a bachelor’s degree in art. He spent two years in the U.S. Army and then returned to Winona State and received a bachelors degree in science. He continued his education at De Paul University where he received his master’s degree. He began his teaching career in Fennimore. Wisconsin and from there went to Joilet, Illinois and Richton, Illinois. The last 18 years years he was the choir director at Maine South High School Park, Ridge, Illinois. He is enjoying his retirement back home in Lake City not to mention is also a substitute teacher.
Terrence Kieffer graduated in 1971. Terrence continued his education at Indian Hills Community College, graduating in 1973 with an Associates Degree. After attending the University of New Orleans and Winona State University he received his Bachelor’s of Science Degree in 1976. From there he received Master’s Degree in 1984. Terry was a 3 sport athlete. He has spend the last 30 years teaching and coaching in Beaver Dam Wisconsin.
Steve Ritzenthaler taught band in Lake city from 1969-2000. He received his music education from the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Minnesota, Mankato. He began his career in Comfrey, Minnesota before coming to Lake City. At present Steve is lead tenor in the Lake city Choral Society and the Joy Singers Choral, and is the associate conductor and member of the Sheldon Brass Band. While in Arizona during the winter months, he performs with the Salt River Brass of Phoenix and the View Point Concert band in Mesa.
Class of 2006
Jody Buck Stefonowicz is a 1989 graduate and was a three sport athlete in cross country, basketball, and track and field. Jody went on to play college basketball for North Dakota State University. Jody is an elementary physical education teacher and living in Hopkins, Minnesota.
Randy Breuer is a 1979 graduate and was member of the 1978 and 1979 state championship basketball teams. Randy went on to play college basketball at the University of Minnesota and was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in l983. Randy is retired from professional basketball and living in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.
Stephen Campion is a 1976 graduate and is currently an Associate Professor in Science and Math at Alvernia College in Reading, Pennsylvania. Stephen is a published author and lecturer in the field of science and scientific research. Stephen is currently living in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Mark McKenzie is a 1974 graduate and has earned a Masters and Doctorate in music composition from the University of Southern California. He has composed or orchestrated music to over 100 major motion pictures including the Academy Award Winning score to Dances With Wolves. Mark is currently living in San Pedro, California.
Jerry “Duke” Snyder retired from the Lake City Schools where he taught math and coached boys basketball teams for 28 years. Jerry coached three teams that won state championships and had a home winning streak of 45 games. Jerry continues to reside in Lake City and take in school events.
