Press Release
Local Athletes Shine in North Dakota All-State 9-Man Football Team
Grand Forks, ND—In a significant recognition of talent, three area teams—North Border, Cavalier, and Four Winds—each had two players named to the North Dakota all-state 9-man football team, as announced by the North Dakota High School Coaches Association on Monday.
North Border’s standout performers include senior quarterback Grant Cosley, who earned first-team honors after amassing over 1,000 yards both passing and rushing during the regular season. Joining him on the second team is Brody Berg, who rushed for 499 yards and recorded five touchdowns.
Cavalier’s representation features Kayden Rose on the first-team defense and Logan Werner on the second team. Rose, a senior offensive guard, played a key role in his team’s offensive performance, averaging more than 250 yards per game. Werner, a versatile player, shone with over 1,500 rushing yards, 20 touchdowns, and significant defensive contributions including 51 tackles.
Four Winds also had notable selections with Francis Belille and Kashton Keja Jr. named to the second team. Keja, a senior quarterback, showcased his dual-threat ability, securing 895 rushing yards and 755 passing yards with a total of 24 touchdowns. Belille anchored the offensive line and was instrumental in the team reaching the playoffs for the first time in school history.
Additional area honorees include Brett Tastad from North Prairie, named first-team offense, and Griggs-Midkota’s Levi Kautzman, a first-team defensive pick. The division’s Senior Athlete of the Year title goes to Walker Braaten from Westhope-Newburg-Glenburn, while Coach of the Year accolades went to Elliott Belquist from New Rockford-Sheyenne-Maddock.
This recognition underscores the impressive achievements of local football talent in North Dakota’s 9-man league.
Source
Photo credit www.grandforksherald.com
