Passing the Baton

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After a 32 year absence in the state tournament, the bulldogs of Paynesville return to the big show.  Much credit should be given to the outstanding senior class.  The 2011 senior football players did a tremendous job putting the program back on the map at the state level.  A great measuring stick of quality is leaving something in a better condition than when you found it.  The 2011 senior led football team created an atmosphere of family.  Every player knew that he was a vital piece to the section championship puzzle.  Here is a final tribute to the 2011 senior football players.

#1 - Josh Bungum

"Does so many things for us that aren't seen.  Very knowledgeable about our offense and defense.  Like having an extra coach in the huddle.  Josh provided big-play potential every time he touched the ball.  Great decision maker in the option game."

#5 - Dan Weidner

"Very smart player.  Provided numerous great blocks throughout the season to help a record breaking offensive year.  Dan provided great catches to move the chains throughout the year including two HUGE catches in the section championship game in drives that led to touchdowns."

#15 - Jason Kampsen

"As fierce of a competitor as I have been around.  Expected to knwo multiple positions on offense and to be the quarterback of our defense.  Great athleticism sparked many big plays for the Bulldogs this fall."

#18 - Kyle Wolters

"Emotional leader of our team.  He is the heart and willpower that makes everyone around him better.  Kyle made sure that all players knoew their importance, regardless of their role.  Quietly broke the school record for receptions in a season.  Maybe the only thing he has done quietly as long as I have known him."

#28 - Weston Brinkman

"Very fiesty competitor.  Played slot position in our offense and was counted on to make key blocks in our running game.  Weston also was a leader in two point conversion receptions and made multiple big catches throughout the season."

#36 - Kyle Schmidt

"When Schmidty was healthy and able to play he was a beast.  He was virtually unblockable at the nose tackle position on our defense and ran with a bull mentality at fullback."

#66 - Trey Stanger

"Trey was a dominant defensive linemen for us.  He battled through injuries to help lead this team to the state tournament.  In the second half of the section final game Trey made some huge stops in the middle to stall the opponents drives."

#69 - Dominick Platow

"Really came on this year as a linemen.  He made it fun to go to practice everyday.  Big D opened up many holes for us throughout this year and played tremendously in the playoffs.  He will be the measuring stick for all future guards to be compared to."

#74- Josh Anderson

"Extremely smart and dominant player.  The best linemen in the conference and probably in the area.  Josh finished his blocks with explosiveness.  He was also a relentless defensive player for us."

#75 - Jeremy Schultz

"Maybe the hardest worker on planet earth.  Usually was undersized at center, but never backed down from the challenge.  Every offensive play in the record setting year started in his hands."

#77- Zach Dingmann

"Two year starter on the offensive line.  He was unselfish and willing to move to a new position to make the team stronger.  He made himself into a player by hard work in the weightroom"