Between shutout games and thrilling championships, West Fargo Packers success was evident in 2012. From the heartbreaking loss in the state championship for girls basketball, to baseball and softball winning championships on the same day, West Fargo earned recognition in almost every sport.
In February, the wrestling team won its first individual state title since 2006.
“I felt happiness for all the kids that they achieved their team goals,” head coach Kayle Dangerud said. “Additionally, many of our guys reached their individual goals. I’m happy that all their hard work and dedication is rewarded. We know how much time they have put in wrestling and it’s exciting to see them grow as student-athletes.”
In March, West Fargo suffered a defeat in the girls’ basketball championship game. After a strong tournament led by seniors Erin Krogh and Lexi Lennon, the Packers finally met their match against the Bismarck Century Patriots, 63-60.
“It was an amazing season for girls basketball,” coach Barb Metcalf said. “I think it was a really pivotal year for us.”
In June, the Packers celebrated two championships on the same night, as both baseball and softball took state. Baseball triumphed over Shanley 2-0 as they were led by a one-hit shutout by Zach Steckler. Softball was able to win its 15th straight title over Minot as sophomore Brittany Rheault threw eight shutout innings, before getting the walk-off hit that scored the game’s only run.
“I had seen my sister experience it before with the upper classmen before and I had always experience it myself,” Roe said. “So once Andrina hit the plate it was pure happiness and excitement to be a part of a team that I had played with since I was little. There is a big difference in just seeing a state championship and being part of a team that wins one.”
With the 2012-2013 school year underway the football season started off rough as the Packers fell to 0-2. Then the Packers went on a run winning three straight including a shutout over then undefeated and number one in the state, Red River. The Packers would close out the regular season 6-3. As the Packers headed to the state tournament they met Minot in the first round. The game was hard fought, but the Packers were triumphant 21-14.
“After a tight game with Minot they knew they had a tall order to go out to Bismarck to take on BHS,” former Packer football coach Edward Mitchell said.
“Out in Bismarck, the kids played physical football and gave BHS a surprise fight,” Mitchell said. “Our 8-7 lead at the start of the 4th quarter was the first time that BHS trailed their opponent all year. It had many of my coaching buddies around the state talking as we texted back and forth during the game.”
With the year drawing to a close, 2012 will be remembered for the Packers show of athleticism and dedication