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Senior Student Athlete Profile: David Johnston (Pelican Rapids)

By Craig Olson, 05/02/20, 12:30PM CDT

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Pelican Rapids senior David Johnston is heading to the University of North Dakota this fall where he will be going into Nursing as a career field.  During his high school years David was a three-sport athlete for the Vikings, participating in Cross Country, Basketball and Track and Field.

“Making it to state in Cross Country four years in a row is definitely my number one sports memory,” said Johnston.  “I also remember breaking Logan Petznick’s ankles in basketball practice.”

“David has set the bar fairly high for future Pelican Rpaids cross country runners,” stated Head Cross Country Coach Steve Maresh.  “As a freshman, he became the youngest boy from Pelican Rapids High School to individually qualify for the MSHSL state cross country meet.  He also went on to run at state in his sophomore, junior and senior years.”

Johnston lists Science and Band as his favorite high school classes.

“Being involved in sports taught me how to stay committed to something and how to work hard for what you want,” added Johnston.  “It’s been pretty hard this spring, but I’ve been working out to keep in shape.”

“David has been a real dependable and reliable member of the track team,” commented Head Coach David Haugen.  “I’ve been able to give him responsibility that he has carried out real well and provided great leadership for the team in completing workouts.  He has always been positive and very supportive of his teammates.  He would have had a good senior year and been a great role model for our younger track athletes.”

“My advice to underclassmen is to never take your season for granted because it might be your last,” concluded Johnston.  “Last track season I missed making it to state by one place at sections, but I wasn’t too upset because my coach and I knew I would have a very good shot this season, but this season got cancelled.  So, always give our sports, and everything in life, 100% effort, because it’ll be over before you know it.”