A small town North Dakota kid trade what would have been a legacy career of being a four starter at his Flagship University in his home state. Like Kleinsasser, a lifetime example of state pride for his hometown. Instead that legacy is lost and he will be a footnote at an out of state school.
I understand that money was probably involved. That money will be gone in a few years. I understand he has the chance at hitchhiking onto a national championship, tough to argue that. However, it is proven that if you have talent for the next level they will find you.
Yes, they make their choice and do what they think is best for themselves at the time. No ill will here.
There are few opportunities to become legends in your home state. Those that are, are legends because they stayed.
I like this perspective. I have had some conversations with the family over the years. So when something like this happens, of course I'm going to get nosy. From what I understand, the kid loved his Coach Pawlek. When the coach left, Borud was a for sure leave. Hagen wanted to try stick it out. Local kid, big family close etc. But the new hire was admittedly a 'quick hire'. Hagen thought his development was being slowed down during spring ball. The interview with Dom said he had the what-if conversation with his parents. Maybe he jumped ship too early and didn't give the new coach the old college try. But, he's 20. He probably has big dreams. Did he think he was better than FCS? IDK. Does he sacrifice his development to become a legend?
But, looking at the big picture. He was recruited during Covid with no other offers. Farm family kid going to a non-ag business school. At the end of his football career, he will go back to the farm. SDSU will give him the agriculture education he will use for life on the farm. As far as money, a full ride was offered. Nothing else more...other than some perks like a free meal from local restaurants. I know it looks bad for UND, but I don't really blame the kid.
Transfer Portal 2023
in Football
Posted
I like this perspective. I have had some conversations with the family over the years. So when something like this happens, of course I'm going to get nosy. From what I understand, the kid loved his Coach Pawlek. When the coach left, Borud was a for sure leave. Hagen wanted to try stick it out. Local kid, big family close etc. But the new hire was admittedly a 'quick hire'. Hagen thought his development was being slowed down during spring ball. The interview with Dom said he had the what-if conversation with his parents. Maybe he jumped ship too early and didn't give the new coach the old college try. But, he's 20. He probably has big dreams. Did he think he was better than FCS? IDK. Does he sacrifice his development to become a legend?
But, looking at the big picture. He was recruited during Covid with no other offers. Farm family kid going to a non-ag business school. At the end of his football career, he will go back to the farm. SDSU will give him the agriculture education he will use for life on the farm. As far as money, a full ride was offered. Nothing else more...other than some perks like a free meal from local restaurants. I know it looks bad for UND, but I don't really blame the kid.