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Reunion-like atmosphere sought by Coach Anderson here Friday, Saturday
April 29, 2010
Nothing would make Trojan football coach Josh Anderson happier if past Trojan players and the present Trojans would form lasting bonds this Friday and Saturday.
The Spring Alumni Football Game on Saturday at the Trojan Field, which kicks off at approximately 1:30 p.m., is the focal point of two days of activities, which start on Friday.
Anderson, however, says, "The game is fun, for sure, but we want is to turn the experience into a kind of reunion weekend for all alumni. It was fun last year to get the alumni game started again, and we want to keep improving attendance numbers."
Some of the pre-2010 Trojans indicating that they will play the game include: Matt Storm, Logan Denning, Jared Pettereins, Toby Ball, Nick Podhrasky, Ryan Raak, David Anderson and Steve Eide.
Last year senior Trojans who will be playing Saturday include Randall Shannon, Brandon Stahl and Ryan Poss. They are all assistant coaches for Anderson.
Storm, Denning, Drew Anderson and Don Strand are also assistant coaches for the football program.
Offensive coordinator Tom Nielsen, defensive coordinator Kenny Hayes and recruiting coordinator Josh Entringer complete the Trojans' coaching staff.
"I want the alumni to come back and have fun with the current athletes," added coach Anderson. "We want them to form some lasting friendships."
Hoping to help that along will be a Friday night pre-game social at the Stadium Bar & Grill at 6 p.m., followed by a free Texas Hold 'em Poker tournament at 7:30 p.m., which will preceded by registrations at 7 p.m.
There will be a post game "5th Quarter Social" at the Stadium Bar & Grill Saturday after the game.
As for the game itself, Anderson said, "For the current players, we want to see the progress each has made since our lasting game in the fall. The competition level between the players has been 'through the roof' this spring and it's very exciting to watch these guys show off their character and work ethic both in the weight room and during practice."
"We are also looking to solidify some starting positions. We have a pretty good idea who will fill these positions, but grading the tape from Saturday's game will help give the coaches a better idea."
Following Saturday's game, the Trojans put away their gear until fall practice, which begins on Sunday, August 15th.
The Trojans' first game is at the Trojan Field on Saturday, August 28th, with the game kicking off at 7 p.m. against Midland Lutheran College.
Dan Holsworth, Dakota State University Athletics Assistant
