UPDATE: Excitement is palpable as former Esko athlete Marisa Pender shares her journey from high school sports to personal success, highlighting the profound impact of athletics on character development. Pender, who excelled in cross country and track, emphasizes the importance of high school sports in shaping life skills.
“I don’t know whether people realize the long-term benefits of high school sports,” Marisa stated. “It’s such a valuable tool for character and leadership development.” Her experience in Esko, a small town known for its athletic prowess, was transformative, thanks to devoted coaches and a supportive community.
Marisa, the oldest of four daughters in the Shady family, moved to Esko when she was just 6 years old. Involved in various activities from gymnastics to soccer, she made the bold decision to join the cross country team in seventh grade, despite her mother’s initial surprise. “Are you crazy?” her mother reacted.
Under the guidance of coaches Tim Lindquist and Jerry Zimny, Marisa quickly found her place within Esko’s storied athletic tradition. Throughout her six years as a varsity runner, the girls’ team qualified for the Minnesota State High School League cross country championships every year. Marisa’s journey to success was marked by steady improvement: finishing 78th in seventh grade, 48th in eighth, and 23rd as a freshman.
“My goal my sophomore year was to medal,” she recalled, but she exceeded her expectations by winning the title instead. “I was more surprised than anyone. I never felt as good as I did in that race. It was just the most euphoric moment.”
In her senior year, Marisa led her team, which included her younger sister Erika, to a commanding victory at the state championship, winning by 35 points over second-place Annandale. “We had something special with a core group of athletes and coaches who believed in us,” she shared, after finishing fifth individually.
The Esko girls’ team also clinched state True Team championships in 2011, 2012, and 2013, with Marisa playing a pivotal role in relays and competing in nearly every track event throughout her high school career.
Despite her talent, Marisa’s basketball team faced tough competition, often falling short of the state tournament due to the dominance of Rebekah Dahlman and Braham High School.
In addition to her athletic achievements, Marisa excelled academically, completing college courses through the Postsecondary Education Options program. By her graduation in 2013, she had earned an impressive 18 varsity letters and secured 14 state medals.
“I always dreamed of competing in D-I sports,” Pender said, and she achieved that dream by accepting a track and field scholarship to South Dakota State University. Despite facing injuries during her college career, she managed to deliver strong performances that hinted at her potential.
Now, as a CrossFit competitor, Marisa trains alongside her husband, Michael Pender, and raises their two children, Jackson and Kiara. After working as a bedside nurse for three years, she recently obtained a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2023.
Reflecting on her journey, Marisa noted, “High school and athletics laid the foundation for who I am. They provided me with the Finnish word ‘sisu.’ It’s determination, perseverance, grit, and tenacity.”
Marisa Pender’s story is a testament to the enduring impact of high school sports, igniting conversations about the importance of athletics in youth development. As her journey continues, the lessons learned in Esko remain invaluable.
This inspiring narrative is set to resonate with athletes, educators, and parents alike, reminding us all of the profound influence of sports on personal growth and community spirit.
