Back in the fall, Maddox Rickertsen saw his world turned upside down when doctors discovered an egg-sized tumor in his colon. Months later, Rickertsen's outlook has changed as he gears up for football season.
There's a veteran feel to a Concordia Football team that believes the time is now. The Bulldogs bring back a record-breaking quarterback for what projects to be an explosive offense. Concordia expects the defense to make a leap forward.
As of National Signing Day (Feb. 7), Concordia Football has announced a 2024 class of more than 40 pledges. Coach Daberkow gave an update on recruiting and the program in full in conjunction with signing day.
When operating at peak levels, the 2023 Concordia Football team showed a flair for offensive fireworks. Led by DJ McGarvie, the Bulldogs set another new offensive standard before completing the season at 5-5.
The unassuming DJ McGarvie tends to shy from the spotlight, but attention is unavoidable for the standard-setting quarterback. McGarvie isn't just breaking Concordia's passing records, he's crushing them.
Whether situated in his home of Arlington, Texas, or otherwise, Rod Giesselmann '71 feels the "oneness" of Concordia. It's that special togetherness that lifted the 1970 Bulldogs to great heights and set Giesselmann up for success.
Michael Grindey has gone from Creighton rugby player to high school football coach to a star linebacker at Concordia. The outgoing Arizona native has thrived after following a twisting, turning path to Seward.
Over the second half of last season, Concordia Football added explosiveness to its offense while supplementing a defense already known for its ruggedness. The Bulldogs hope to hit the ground running this fall in what will be year seven of Coach Patrick Daberkow's tenure.
Head Coach Patrick Daberkow and standouts Michael Grindey and DJ McGarvie met the media on July 17 at the Nebraska Small College Football Media Day hosted by Doane. Preseason camp opens Aug. 7 for the Bulldogs.
After following his dreams and becoming a Nebraska Cornhusker, Austin Jablonski called an audible and transferred to Concordia for a shot at playing quarterback. He's found Concordia to be a "special place" where his faith has grown and his talents have shined.