By Joey Peterson —

Every athlete, whether youth or professional, will look back at the memories they made, the people they shared them with, and the long lasting relationships made through competing in athletics. The fall athletic season at the University of Wisconsin–Stout is either nearing a close or, for many, has already ended.

The football team finished off their regular season against University of Wisconsin–Whitewater on November 14. Although their overall record was 3-7, they had some big conference wins over the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire and the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. The season was not short on memories.

Both senior defensive back Collin Laursen (Mondovi, Wis.) and senior linebacker Kyle Hoefft (Morton, Ill.), who led the team in tackles, agreed that their most memorable moment was beating Eau Claire this past season. Laursen said that his favorite memory was, “Being able to storm the field and hoist the War on I-94 trophy after a dominating performance.”

The team leader in sacks, senior defensive end Kevin Houts’ (Bloomington, Minn.) most memorable moment came during the 2013 football season with Stout trailing late in game with Oshkosh possessing the ball on the one yard line. “We stayed strong and didn’t bend, on four straight runs by Oshkosh we were able to deny them and get the ball back to our offense … I will never forget that moment,” said Houts.

The women’s soccer team finished 8-8-3 this season and had two first team all-conference players in senior midfielder Jenna Kizlik (Hammond, Wis.) and senior defender Vanessa Wrobel (Rockford, Ill.). Wrobel recalled her most memorable moment was playing against Whitewater her junior year. “We went out there ready and just excited to play. Holding them to a tie game until overtime was an unbelievable feeling … A heartbreaking loss, but 100 percent, one of the best team efforts we’ve ever had,” said Wrobel.

Senior Goalkeeper Paige Meyer (Beldenville, Wis.), who had 76 saves and a 1.13 goals against average, also remembers that Whitewater shootout. “Most memorable would be our season ending shootout at Oshkosh in 2013 and our double OT loss against Whitewater, both crazy games that I will never forget,” said Meyer.

Addy Maher (Racine, Wisconsin), a senior forward who led the Blue Devils in assists, recalled some memorable moments against rivals. “Beating our rivals River Falls and Eau Claire my freshman and sophomore years. They are very strong teams and the feeling of defeating them is one I will never forget,” said Maher.

The volleyball team played a tough schedule and finished 16-18 overall. This year the team was young with only three seniors. However, they were still able to have a successful season. For senior Laura Reiter (Lino Lakes, Minn.), her most memorable moment came her freshman year. “When we found out we had made it to the conference tournament, the sheer joy that was on the upperclassmen’s faces was priceless. I was so happy to be a part of something that meant so much to them,” said Reiter.

Senior Rachel Tschumperlin (Fairmount, Minn.) will remember being with her teammates not only on the court, but off the court. “Long bus rides can be boring and annoying, but with this team, I have had the best time ever. Being with those girls is everything I expected it to be. They are my best friends and my family. I love them all,” said Tschumperlin.

To all of the seniors who have put their heart and soul into Blue Devil athletics, thank you, and we wish you the best.

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