Perham senior Michael Benke had no trouble picking out his favorite sports memory.  As a baseball player for the Yellowjackets he chose their participating in the 2019 state high school tournament.

As a student he enjoyed History, Gym and Wood Shop classes.  His post high school plans are to work for Arvig Communications.

“Sports connected me with friends who I was able to share my love for the game of baseball,” said Benke.  “That can grow into lifelong friendships.”

“Michael was a bulldog for us,” said Head Baseball Coach James Mulcahy.  “He started at third base most of the 2019 season and was our key closer and bullpen pitcher.  He walked onto the mound inheriting many tough situations and got the job done.  He's a blue collar kid who knows and shows the value of hard work.”

Some advice to underclassmen, “As Coach James M told us last year as juniors, we need to be ‘bigger, faster, stronger’ before next season and that’s what we did.  We hit the weight room and practiced all winter long and we didn’t get to play, but I’m glad I did it.  Although we didn’t get to play in another state tournament, I hope the class of 2021 gets to.”