UPDATE: Marisa Pender of Esko, Minnesota, is celebrating her remarkable journey through high school sports, reflecting on the invaluable lessons learned and the euphoric moments created during her championship years.
In a candid statement, Marisa emphasizes the long-term benefits of high school athletics, stating, “It’s such a valuable tool for character and leadership development.” Her words resonate with many as the community reflects on its rich sports tradition.
Marisa, the eldest of four daughters in the Shady family, moved to Esko at the age of 6, immersing herself in various sports like gymnastics, soccer, and basketball. She credits her devoted coaches and the supportive atmosphere in their small town for fostering her athletic success. “Esko is a small town with great athletic success. It’s unbelievable how many people came to our games and meets,” she said.
Over six years as a varsity runner, Marisa helped the Esko girls’ cross country team qualify for the Minnesota State High School League championships each year. As a dual-sport athlete, she balanced soccer and cross country, showcasing her dedication under the guidance of coaches Tim Lindquist and Jerry Zimny.
Marisa’s rise in state meet standings was impressive: from finishing 78th in 7th grade, to 48th in 8th grade, and 23rd as a freshman. Her sophomore year saw her achieving her goal of winning the title, an unexpected triumph that she describes as “the most euphoric moment” of her life.
The excitement continued into her senior year when Marisa and her teammates claimed the team title, finishing a staggering 35 points ahead of runner-up Annandale. “We had something special with a core group of athletes and coaches who believed in us,” she stated, highlighting the camaraderie that defined their success.
The Esko girls also celebrated state True Team championships in 2011, 2012, and 2013. Marisa earned an astounding 18 varsity letters and became a 14-time state medalist throughout her high school career, proving her versatility by competing in every track and field event except discus and shot put.
Despite her prowess, the girls’ basketball team, including her friend Savanna Trapp, faced tough competition and never made it to the state tournament. Trapp, a standout player at UCLA, had to retire due to health issues, but the bond they shared remains strong.
Marisa’s journey didn’t end with high school; she pursued her dream of competing in Division I sports by accepting a scholarship to South Dakota State University. Though her college career was marred by injuries, she managed to deliver strong performances, hinting at the potential she had.
Now, as a mother of two, Jackson and Kiara, Marisa continues to push herself in the world of CrossFit alongside her husband, Michael Pender. Having transitioned from nursing to academia, she recently obtained a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2023.
“High school and athletics laid the foundation for who I am,” Marisa reflects, attributing her success to the Finnish concept of “sisu,” which embodies determination, perseverance, grit, and tenacity.
As Esko celebrates its sports legacy through athletes like Marisa Pender, the community is reminded of the profound impact high school sports can have on personal growth and teamwork. The stories of triumph, lessons learned, and bonds formed continue to inspire future generations.
