Demonstrating Commitment and Passion on the Field and Beyond
During the months of September 2025, December 2025, and March 2026, Beck’s will recognize outstanding high school athletes who demonstrate that they are a Player with Heart. At Beck’s, we are and will remain, Farmers at Heart™.
Scholarship winners will be selected and contacted by Beck’s representatives in May 2026.
Jackson Wadsworth – Hayti, SD
As a Beck’s Player with Heart, Jackson Wadsworth shows his dedication and passion both on and off the court and field. In school, He participates in football, basketball, HUCS, Student Council, FCA, and National Honor Society. Jackson’s favorite thing about sports is the ability to be able to compete for his school and community. He also enjoys being part of a team and being a role model for younger generation, giving them someone to look up to. In his community, he is involved in local blood drives, part of the senior Luther league, and volunteers for the food and health pantry. Jackson has spent his entire life farming, so agriculture means a lot to him. He don’t see it as a job, he sees it as a lifestyle and something he will do for the rest of his life. As soon as football or basketball practice is over, he goes to the farm to work. Jackson’s future plans include attending Northern State to play basketball and study ag business. After college, he plans to come back to the farm with hopes to one day take it over.
Breyten Johnson – De Smet, SD
Breyten Johnson was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his dedication and commitment on and off the mat. In school, Breyten participates in wrestling, FFA, the National Honor Society, and Student Council, saying he enjoys getting to know new people and building friendships. While being on a team or part of a group, he has found that students of different ages, backgrounds, and interests can find common ground. Some of Breyten’s favorite memories come from bus rides, practices, or long days. Breyten helps plant flowers and pick up trash in the park and golf course. He is also a confirmed member of his church and volunteers to help run the Kingsbury Cattleman’s Association Banquet. Breyten sees agriculture as the foundation who he is, as he grew up on a family farm with crops, sheep, and cattle. He has learned responsibility, how to handle stress with weather or money, and how to appreciate the small wins. Breyten’s best memories come from working alongside his family, and he takes pride in his work every day. Breyten plans to continue his education and study ag business to work in banking, loaning, or sales while continuing to farm alongside his family.
Karley Luke – Marion, SD
Karley Luke was selected as a Beck’s Player with Heart because of her involvement and dedication to her school, sports, and community. In school, Karley plays volleyball and basketball, and participates in track, FFA, and FCA. She says she loves being able to make different connections through these activities. Karley is also involved in a youth group, works as a life guard, and volunteers frequently around her community. Karley shows her commitment to the agriculture industry through her work as FFA chapter president and while growing up on a production agriculture farm with confinement pigs and show sheep. She says that agriculture has helped her strengthen her bonds to her community, allowing her to be part of something bigger. Agriculture has also taught Karley to persevere through the hard things and how to be dependable and responsible. Karley plans to continue her education South Dakota University.
Mandi Schock – Spencer, SD
As a Beck’s Player with Heart, Mandi Schock shows dedication and passion on and off the field. She competes in basketball and track and field while also being involved in FFA, FBLA, and her school’s mentoring program. She values the opportunity to compete, grow, and create lasting memories alongside her friends and family. Outside of school, Mandi volunteers at her local food pantry and participates in 4-H, giving back to the community that has supported her. Coming from a long line of farmers, agriculture represents family and community in Mandi’s life. She has been raised with strong agricultural values and knows her family’s support extends from the fields to the stands. Mandi plans to attend the University of Sioux Falls to pursue a degree in nursing while continuing her track career at the collegiate level.
Ty Oyen – Colton, SD
Ty Oyen has been named a Beck’s Player with Heart due to his dedication to his school, community, and the agriculture industry. Ty has spent his entire life farming. He doesn’t see it as a job, but instead as a lifestyle that he will never give up. After football practice, he goes straight to the field. When he’s asked about it, he says farming is not work to him and that he enjoys it a lot. Ty is the captain of the football team, a team leader in basketball, and participates in track. He is also part of FFA and FBLA. Ty enjoys the teamwork aspect of these activities, as everyone gets along and works together towards one goal. Ty is involved in several community activities, including with his church. He and his brother are often called on by their pastor if the church requires manual labor. His family also acts as their area’s mechanics, so Ty often helps diagnose and fix farm equipment. Ty plans to attend South Dakota State University to study ag business and play football.
Paxtyn Moller – Alcester, SD
Paxtyn Moller was chosen as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court and field. In school, Paxtyn is an officer for FCCLA and participates in volleyball and softball. She is also a founder of the Royal Ball and Summertime Wonderland Pageant. With the Royal Ball, they have been able to raise around $6,600 and give 250 toys to Santa and Mrs. C’s Kids over the past two years. The Summertime Wonderland Pageant is currently in its first year, where they have crowned four girls as queen. It requires no less than 10 volunteer hours during their reign, which teaches the kids that it is very rewarding to give back. Paxtyn is also heading to Belize in July for a mission trip with a local church youth group. She is currently South Dakota’s Jr Teen Princess of America and has held titles with National American Miss and Miss America. Over the past two years, Paxtyn has volunteered over 1,500 hours with different organizations in South Dakota. She has received several All-State awards for softball and plans to graduate high school a year early in May 2026. To Paxtyn, agriculture means understanding where our food comes from and family tradition. She currently lives on family land that her great-grandfather purchased. She says she has the privilege of being able to watch her grandfather run the farm and work the land, which will one day be passed down to her father, then to her and her sisters. Paxtyn recognizes farming as the foundation of South Dakota’s everyday life. It’s important to appreciate the farmers, workers, and families who dedicate their lives to caring for the animals, growing crops, and protecting natural resources. Paxtyn plans to attend either USD or SDSU and become a nurse anesthetist.
Lacie Weber – Rutland, SD
Lacie Weber was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her dedication and commitment on and off the mat. Lacie participates in football cheer, basketball cheer, and the National Honor Society, is vice president of the student council, and is chapter president of the Howard FFA chapter. Lacie loves being able to push herself as a leader and teammate through these activities. She has learned dedication, responsibility, and time management skills, and has gained a sense of belonging and pride in her school. She enjoys encouraging others, building relationships, and contributing to something bigger than herself. Lacie is involved in several community activities, especially with agriculture and youth leadership. Through FFA and 4-H, she volunteers at livestock shows, mentors younger members in showmanship, and helps with county-wide events. She also assists with community service projects such as Feed-a-Farmer Day, Honoring Heroes Breakfast, Farm Safety Day, and other local outreach efforts. Lacie says that through being involved in her community, she has learned the value of service, teamwork, and giving back to the people who support her. She has been raising and showing sheep and swine since she was 6 years old, and has developed a work ethic, patience, and responsibility while in the barn. It means family, community, and having a deep respect for the animals and land to Lacie. Agriculture has played a huge role in shaping who Lacie is. She has found a lot of opportunities, whether in leadership, education, or advocating for producers and consumers. Lacie plans to attend South Dakota State University and major in pharmacy with a minor in animal health. She wants to become a livestock pharmacist so she can contribute to the agriculture industry through ensuring strong, healthy herds.
Katelyn Gebhart – Meadow, SD
Katelyn Gebhart was selected as a Beck’s Player with Heart because of her involvement and dedication to her school, sports, and community. Katelyn plays volleyball and participates in trap shooting, saying she loves making close friendships and receiving community support. As captain, she wants to lead by example and show younger members a positive attitude, a hard work ethic, good character, and how to pick teammates up. Katelyn has learned how to trust, encourage, and rely on others, as well as life skills such as perseverance, responsibility, and leadership. In school, Katelyn is involved in the Lemmon EMT Cadet Program, the Academic Olympic team, Close-Up, and Travel Club. She currently serves as vice president of student council, president of the National Honor Society, president of her FFA chapter, and is the senior class vice president. Katelyn is very dedicated to her community, volunteering at multiple organizations, shelters, nursing homes, and youth sports events. She is a member of 4-H, a Junior Beef Ambassador, a representative on the National Youth Leadership Council for the NRECA, the Overall Top Range Hand for the National Society of Range Management for South Dakota, and currently works as a CNA at a local nursing home. From building fences after fires to serving food at banquets, Katelyn has developed a passion for helping others. She has gained the support and respect of her community through her volunteering and by being a good role model for youth. Agriculture has always been a way of life, as she was born and raised on a ranch. Katelyn learned how to work hard and to persevere through tough times. It has also provided her with many valuable opportunities where she gained helpful life skills such as public speaking, dedication, and responsibility. Agriculture is the backbone of her community, and she is proud to be a part of it. Katelyn plans to attend South Dakota State University’s nursing program to receive her RN and BSN degree. She wants to pursue a Family Nurse Practitioner degree and work in a rural clinic while continuing to work on the ranch with her family.
Aubree Miller – Gregory, SD
As a Beck’s Player with Heart, Aubree Miller shows her dedication and passion both on and off the court and track. Aubree currently plays volleyball and runs track, saying that she enjoys the sense of community and friendship surrounding her. Every time she steps onto the court, she feels like she is part of a family. Aubree appreciates all the friendships she’s made and the connections she has with people from other schools. In school, she is also involved in the National Honor Society, Oral Interpretation, band, and ALA Girls State. Aubree is very active in her community as president of the county FFA chapter and secretary of her school’s National Honor Society. To Aubree, agriculture is more than just farming; it’s also about hard work and growth. It is about understanding where our food comes from and appreciating the people who dedicate their lives to feeding the world. Through her involvement in FFA, she has learned leadership skills, responsibility, and teamwork. After high school, Aubree is going to South Dakota State University to study animal science in hopes of becoming a veterinarian.
Holden Wollmann – Bridgewater, SD
Holden Wollmann has been named a Beck’s Player with Heart due to his dedication to his school, community, and the agriculture industry. Holden knows agriculture is very important to the future of the country, as everyone depends on agriculture and farmers to produce food. He works on his family farm, raising Black Angus cattle, growing corn and soybeans, and welding livestock-related products. Holden currently plays basketball, football, and competes in track and field. He loves competing and seeing countless hours of work and effort pay off when he gets the win. Through high school sports and activities, he has learned to lead by example and character. In school, Holden is involved in the National Honor Society and student council, and is a dedicated member of his school’s FFA chapter. He is a state finalist in Agricultural Mechanics Design and Fabrication and has been on state-qualifying CDE and LDE teams over the years. Holden volunteers for a mentor/mentee program, helps with community blood drives, participates in FFA’s National Day of Service, and helps around his community through Youth Group. Holden wants to continue his athletic career at a four-year college, but is currently undecided on his major.
Kadyn Glanzer – Bridgewater, SD
Kadyn Glanzer was chosen as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. In school, Kadyn participates in FCCLA, a mentor/mentee program, the National Honor Society, journalism, and serves as the student advisor of the Bridgewater-Emery FFA. She currently plays volleyball and basketball, saying she loves the support she receives from teammates, coaches, and her community. Kadyn is very involved in her community’s church and youth group. Through her youth group, she has been able to go on three mission trips, which included numerous hours of community service. Agriculture has always been a part of Kadyn’s life, representing family and tradition. Since she grew up on a family farm, she has been able to see the vital role it plays in providing for the whole world. Kadyn is currently employed as a CNA, and plans to pursue a career in nursing in South Dakota.
Derek Arunasalam – Aberdeen, SD
Derek Arunasalam was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his dedication and commitment on and off the field. In school, Derek participates in soccer, sound crew, and band, saying he appreciates having a group of people work towards a common goal. Derek volunteers as a youth soccer coach, aids in the after-school program, and frequently helps out around the community, no matter what it is. Derek sees agriculture as the foundation of his community. He knows it takes hard work, dedication, and sacrifice to do what is needed. Derek wants to pursue a teaching degree and aims to play soccer for as long as he can.
Click Here to View the 2024 Players with Heart
Avery Zeisler – Bonesteel, SD
Avery Zeisler was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the course. She loves that through cross country, she has been able to make friends and memories from her close-knit team. Avery also loves that her sport helped her become a better leader on and off the course. She is involved in a variety of school activities such as FFA, National Honor Society, Student Council, 4-H, and cross country. With her focus on FFA, Avery won proficiency at the state level in April of 2024 and received silver at the national level, being in the top 15% of the nation. Avery is heavily involved in her church and she spends time volunteering at various community events. To Avery, agriculture is not a job or an occupation, but a lifestyle. It’s where the best life lessons come from and how she has learned many valuable life skills. Avery plans on pursuing a degree in Agricultural Business or Agricultural Communications at a four-year college.
Tate Miller – Howard, SD
Tate Miller was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. One thing he loves most about high school sports is being able to compete with his brothers, cousins, and closest friends. He also loves representing his town and school. Tate participates in football, wrestling, track and field, National Honor Society, FFA, and student council, and is his senior class vice president. When Tate is not in school or on the field, he’s involved in 4-H and church activities. Tate lives on a farm, so agriculture means a lot to him and his family. Agriculture is deeply rooted in his family, as both of his parents grew up on farms. He has had many experiences and lessons that he wouldn’t have without agriculture. Tate enlisted into the South Dakota Army National Guard this past July. Upon completion of basic training and other military schooling, he will attend college and plans to pursue a career in physical therapy.
Jason Zeeb – Emery, SD
Jason Zeeb was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the court and field. What he loves most about high school sports is being able to compete with his teammates. Playing high school sports has taught him how important teamwork, leadership, discipline, self-confidence, dedication, and respect are to having a successful season. Jason expressed how sports are a way to keep his body in good physical condition and play an important role in maintaining a healthy mental state. The most important reasons he plays and participates in sports are to go out to do something that he loves and to have fun while gaining experience. Jason competes in football, basketball, and track. He is currently in FFA as the chapter president, a part of the National Honor Society, and is on the A Honor Roll for academics. He also participates in the buddy program, where he mentors elementary students who struggle with making friends or have troubling behaviors, as well as the Heidelberg Youth League and TASC (Teens Actively Serving Christ). It wasn’t until Jason started attending school that he realized growing up on a farm wasn’t considered “normal” or a way of life for many people. However, to him, agriculture is a vital lifestyle and surrounds many in the small rural community in which he lives. Agriculture has allowed him to explore many of his interests. Being in high school and having the opportunity to join FFA has shown him just how diverse agriculture is in the world. Agriculture is his way of life and a passion that he has been blessed to enjoy every day. Jason plans to attend a university to study agriculture science and play college football. It is his dream to further his education and bring back new ideas to the family farm.
Jerrad Wallman – Yale, SD
Jerrad Wallman was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the court and course. The thing he loves most about high school sports is how it brings people together. The social connections he makes throughout the winter are a fun part of basketball. Whether he is having a winning season or a challenging season, people come together to cheer him and his team on and support them. He has made many good friends that he guards on the court, but once the game is over, they are laughing and talking about things they have in common. Jerrad competes in basketball and golf. In his free time, he participates in 4-H, youth group, and various activities at his church such as running the sound booth, VBS crew leader, and service projects. As part of the National Honor Society, Jerrad has helped with the Salvation Army Food Distribution events. As part of band and choir, he has participated in the Salvation Army Christmas Basket fundraiser to sing and play while raising donations to help support the community. At James Valley, he does an annual clean-a-thon where he helps walk to pick up trash in over 50 miles of ditches. Agriculture is Jerrad’s connection to his family and community. He has been working alongside his father and brother on their farm for as long as he can remember. With his family being involved in agriculture, he has been able to spend time with multiple generations of his family. Every day is different on the farm, and he enjoys the variety of work and challenges it brings. Jerrad plans to attend college and ultimately return to his farm. It’s a great place to grow up and he wants to be part of the community that has supported him throughout his life.
Rachel Stranberg – Newell, SD
Rachel Stranberg was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. The thing she loves most about high school sports is the challenges she faces with teammates. Having teammates is what makes sports fun for her. Rachel is involved in volleyball, basketball, 4-H rodeo, and FFA. She also participates in 4-H day cleanup, play day cleanup, Labor Day help, and FFA community day, and is currently the Newell Labor Day rodeo queen. Agriculture to Rachel is something that the world relies on in their everyday lives. So, to be a part of the agricultural side of life brings her a lot of opportunities to go places and see things. It brings passion to a person. As she makes her way through her last 2 years of high school, she plans to attend college in the field of physical therapy and continue with her passion for sports. She also aspires to continue as an academic athlete at a collegiate level.
Wyat James – Bruce, SD
Wyat James was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the court and field. What he loves most about high school sports is the family he has created with his teammates while participating in various activities. Wyat is currently involved in football, basketball, and FFA. Outside of school and sports, he participates in his Trinity Lutheran Youth Group and 4-H. To Wyat, agriculture is his life. He is a fifth-generation cattle producer, and his family has made a living in this industry. As a freshman, he purchased a herd of registered Angus cattle which he has continued to grow throughout high school. He then plans to use the cattle to help pay for college. After graduating, Wyat will be attending Lake Area Technical College next fall for building trades technology. After college, he looks forward to continuing his family’s legacy. He plans to use his degree to help bring additional money to his family when he returns to the farm.
Katelyn Schroeder – Redfield, SD
Katelyn Schroeder was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. The things she loves most about high school sports are the deep connections and life lessons that she has learned from participating. Sports have taught her to manage her time and stay organized as well as how to be a leader and create connections with people to work as a team. Katelyn is involved in and competes in volleyball, basketball, FFA, FCCLA, and student council. Outside of school and sports, she is confirmed at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, does community service, works on her farm, and previously participated in 4-H. Agriculture to Katelyn means generations of love, commitment, hard work, and determination. Agriculture has been a huge part of her life and has taught her work ethic, precision, and patience. Katelyn plans to attend Northern State University for a potential major in agri-business alongside playing on the Northern State volleyball team.
Emma Moller – Alcester, SD
Emma Moller was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court and field. What she loves most about high school sports is that even when she thinks she can’t go further, she gets up and plays. She plays for herself, her team, and the younger kids looking up to her. Her participation in high school sports has taught her resilience, leadership, and the value of hard work. She will forever be grateful for all the important lessons sports have taught her. Emma competes in basketball, softball, and volleyball and serves as the captain of her volleyball and softball teams. She is also involved in FCCLA as a member VP of the chapter, is a football statistician, part of the National Honors Society, and is on the Alcester Hudson Honor Roll. When she isn’t in school or playing sports, Emma is spending her time volunteering. She created the Royal Ball, which is an annual event that creates a magical night for boys and girls of all ages. All proceeds go to Santa and Mrs. C’s Kids, a non-profit to help families within a 30-mile radius of Alcester during the holidays. She also created Christmas in July, where young girls earn Christmas-themed titles and spend the year volunteering for the same cause. In addition to volunteering for Santa and Mrs. C’s Kids, each titleholder will be required to complete no less than ten additional volunteer hours with any nonprofit they choose. These projects not only support families in need but also inspire children to embrace service, proving that leadership can be both fun and transformative. You can also find her volunteering at the South Dakota Safety House, Ag Appreciation Day Sioux Empire Fair, painting cancer ribbons on driveways for donation for the Kobee Sherman Cancer Drive, assisting Miss South Dakota Jr. Teen, and being a Washington DC Youth Tour recipient. Beyond her career goals, her roots in her community run deep. Agriculture to Emma means heritage, hard work, and the foundation of life itself. Her future goal is to manage her family’s farm while bringing medical advancements to the people who need them most. As Emma grew up in a small town in South Dakota, she has always known that hard work is a way of life for many. In communities like hers, people don’t just wear one hat, they wear ten. The mayor isn’t just the mayor; he’s also the local bus driver, a farmer, a volunteer board member, a t-ball coach, a Sunday school teacher, an EMT, and a firefighter. Everyone pitches in, and no one has time to be laid up for long periods. That’s why she is passionate about pursuing a career in radiology, especially in non-invasive cancer screening and image-guided surgery. Advancements like these in the medical world can make a real difference in rural communities like hers, where access to healthcare can often be limited, and taking time off work for medical care is not always an option.
Tristan Geditz – Ipswich, SD
Tristan Geditz was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court and field. The thing she loves most about high school sports is knowing that she is working hard at something she truly cares about, which can be very satisfying. High school sports have taught her many life lessons such as working together with a group of people to accomplish a common goal. She enjoys spending time with her teammates and working to improve her athletic ability. She also loves to represent her school and community in a positive sportsman-like manner. Tristan competes in basketball, volleyball, and track and field. She participates in football stats, assisting in youth basketball, and Ipswich student council. In her community, Tristan is involved in a church youth group, Ipswich trails days, refereeing basketball tournaments, and assisting wrestling meets. It is difficult for Tristan to describe what agriculture means to her because it is a big part of her life considering she has lived on a farm her entire life and helped on other family farms in the area. Therefore, saying that agriculture is a huge part of her life is an understatement. Although only a sophomore in high school, Tristan expressed how being nominated for this award is a great honor. She is very humble and grateful to be considered for this award. She always puts 100% of everything into all that she does. She plays with a lot of heart and effort, this is no different from how she has lived her life outside of athletics, especially her agriculture and community-related experiences.
Madison Lauck – Salem, SD
Madison Lauck was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court and course. What she loves most about high school sports is being part of a team. As one of the team captains this year, she wanted to lead by example by having a positive attitude and encouraging her teammates when times got hard on the court. As for golf, she has valued building her ability to handle stress independently on the course and discovering her mental strength and ability to perform successfully under pressure. She has been blessed to grow up in a small community where she can be highly involved, allowing her to develop time management skills, work as a team, and become a leader. Madison competes in volleyball and golf. She is involved in the FFA for 6 years and holds the office of chapter secretary, 4-H for 10 years, Student Council and holds the position of president, band, co-section, Tri-M music honor society group as the secretary, National Honors Society as the fundraising chairperson, and FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes). Madison spends her time volunteering in numerous church and community activities, like serving at the Triotel appreciation banquet, 4-H barn clean up before achievement days, serving the annual harvest meal to the farmers, serving at the pancake feed during FFA week, serving Salem Community Women Ladies Night Out meal and working concession stand with the golf and volleyball team. Madison is most proud of the senior project that she developed to benefit her community. She went on a two-year journey to create a statewide campaign with Trashie, a company that prides itself on zero-waste fashion. She developed a knowledge check survey of upcycling and the effects of textile waste on the environment. She then created an educational video on upcycling, environmental concerns with textile waste, and how people can be part of the solution. She wanted to not only complete a final research project, but also to put it into action and make actual change, bring awareness to the importance of limiting textile waste, and gain knowledge of ways upcycling can help the environment. Agriculture to Madison is a way of life. More importantly, it is a community. She has been blessed to be surrounded by family and friends who work tireless hours and will drop everything to help a neighbor or community member. FFA has provided her with invaluable knowledge of agriculture’s importance, leadership skills development, and how agriculture will play a role in the rest of her life. Madison plans to attend South Dakota State University to earn her undergraduate degree in human biology while in the honors program. She will then obtain her physician assistant degree potentially at the University of South Dakota. She plans to practice with her physician assistant license for a few years while earning her functional medicine license. She hopes to use her future career to help those in her community.
Emma O’Donnell – Keldron, SD
Emma O’Donnell was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the field and court. Her favorite part about being in high school sports is being with her friends, going on long bus rides, and creating memories she can tell her future kids about. She enjoys how much she has grown and matured throughout sports. She can learn a lot about taking accountability and personal development. Throughout her high school career, she has faced many challenges, from injuries to mental battles. Over her years in many sports, she has learned to talk to coaches even when she was afraid. In a way, this has helped her grow as a person and understand what the next stage of life will be like. Emma has competed in volleyball and track and field all for four years and was a team captain this year on her volleyball team. She has been involved in FFA since her eighth-grade year. She has been lucky enough to attend state for CDE every year and win many district competitions. Additionally, she has been on her land and range teams over the years and will be attending nationals this April, representing the state of South Dakota. Emma has also been a member of Yearbook for the past two years and has participated in her school’s one-act play. Outside of school and sports, you can find Emma volunteering at her local community with various activities such as cleaning and decorating her local church and tying blankets to donate to people in need. Her basketball and volleyball teams volunteer each year to host a camp for elementary school kids to come and improve their skills. She works on the volunteer ambulance as a cadet to help EMTs and she has also helped at the local Lemmon Jr. Livestock Show. Agriculture has always been a huge part of Emma’s life. She has lived on her family farm and ranch her entire life, and it’s made her who she is today. She has been through agricultural hardships and successes, which has made her see the beauty and lessons through it all. Working in agriculture, she has learned many life skills and her father has instilled in her a good work ethic. Emma plans to attend BSC to pursue a degree in diagnostic medical sonography. She will also get her realtor license to help her family farm and ranch by selling and buying land and renting out land. After completing her degree, she plans to return to a rural community to give back to small communities in great need of medical help. She believes that growing up in a small community teaches the value of helping others. Throughout her years in Lemmon, she has seen the community rally around to help fundraise or donate to someone in need, and she hopes to one day move to a small community and be a member who helps others out.
Blake Leenderts – Garretson, SD
Blake Leenderts was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field and court. The thing he loves most about high school sports is the people. He expressed that he feels very blessed to have a wonderful team with some of the best teammates. These teammates are uplifting people with a great work ethic. Everyone has brought energy to his team and he believes that is the reason they are so successful. Blake competes in football, basketball, and track and field. He is involved in the math league, Knowledge Bowl, FFA, and CEO. When he is not in school or playing sports, Blake participates in 4-H and RCYF. Agriculture is very important in Blake’s life as well as many others. It is what puts food on the table for millions of people around the world. It is important to him because he had the opportunity to grow up on a farm. Agriculture has taught him so much like a strong work ethic and a strong mentality. He feels it is truly a blessing to be able to grow up in and around agriculture. Blake’s plan for the future is to attend South Dakota State University for civil engineering. Once he has completed his schooling, he plans to find a civil engineering job within the area to help develop his community.
Click Here to View the 2023 Players with Heart
Kenadee Kozak – Tyndall, SD
Kenadee Kozak was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the field. Her favorite part about high school sports is the drive to compete with others but most of all to make memories with her teammates. To Kenadee, agriculture is important because she had grown up with it, along with the hard work and challenges of farming. She has grown up with farming and has learned what a hard work ethic is. Kenadee is involved in softball, basketball, volleyball, student council, NHS, band, FCA, Snack Pack, community food drives and youth group. She is also class president and FFA secretary. Her future plans are to attend college for a degree in the agricultural field or animal science.
Aidan Cole – Hudson, SD
Aidan Cole was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is playing with all of his lifelong friends. It’s fun to finally grow up from playing recess football to actually now going out on the field and playing. He also really enjoys when playoffs start. To Cole, agriculture has a strong meaning in his life. From working late in the fields to get the crops in to working late to get them out before the winter, the time and effort his family puts into agriculture makes it mean so much more. He really enjoys helping keep his family farm alive and wants to keep expanding it for future generations to come. Cole is involved in football, FFA, 4-H, NHS, is a volunteer firefighter and shows cattle in his county fair. His future plans are to go to Lake Area Technical College in Watertown, South Dakota.
Carter Peterson – Sioux Falls, SD
Carter Peterson was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the course. His favorite part about high school sports is the opportunity to be a role model for younger kids. He thinks it’s super cool to have younger people who look up to him for not only what he does in sports, but also what he does outside of it. Knowing that people are looking up to him has helped him become a better person. To Carter, agriculture is about opportunity. Agriculture creates many jobs for people and is how we support everyone in our world. Carter is involved in golf, basketball, and FCA. His future plans are to attend college and play golf and wants to continue to serve his community with his faith being the center of it all.
Collin Beaner – Britton, SD
Collin Beaner was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is the brotherhood he has created with his teammates and the willingness of each of them to make each other better people and athletes. To Collin, agriculture is extremely important for our world to function well. Collin is involved in football, wrestling, track, all school play technician, first grade student aide, kindergarten buddy program and church youth group. After high school, Collin plans to attend Lake Area Technical College to become a diesel technician with hopes to help keep local farms running.
Shannon Gebhart – Meadow, SD
Shannon Gebhart was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. Her favorite part about high school sports is the friendships she has built with her teammates, players from other schools as well as upper and lower classmen. Agriculture means everything to Shannon. She grew up on her family’s cow-calf operation and will hopefully be the fourth generation on it. She started her own cattle herd and is currently a Junior Beef Ambassador through the South Dakota Beef Industry Council. Shannon is involved in volleyball, NHS, trap shooting, 4-H and is heavily involved in her church. She is also FFA president and student council vice president. Her future plans are to attend either Bismarck State College or Lake Area Technical College in Watertown for nursing.
Tate Hartley – Henry, SD
Tate Hartley was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is the different friendships he has formed throughout the years. He also loves being part of a team and working together to try and succeed. To Tate, agriculture means hard work and being involved. He says being involved in agriculture isn’t a job, it’s a lifestyle. Tate is involved in NHS, football, basketball, community food drives and other community volunteering. He is also student council co-president and FFA president. Tate plans on going to Lake Area Technical College for building trades and he would like to either run his family’s farm or drive a truck.
Tyler Groenewold – Humboldt, SD
Tyler Groenewold was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is making new friends and getting to be involved in team actives that help in learning communication and teamwork skills. Agriculture means a lot to Tyler. He has grown up around agriculture and wants to keep it a part of his life in years to come. Tyler is involved in FFA, student council, NHS, 4-H, baseball and football. His future plans are to purse a degree in precision agriculture with a minor in agronomy and ag business.
Tate French – Hitchcock, SD
Tate French was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the field. His favorite part about high school sports is the brotherhood that comes from playing with friends. To Tate, agriculture teaches the younger generation how to make sacrifices as well as morals of life that many people in today’s world don’t have. Tate is involved in football, basketball and FFA. He also volunteers at community events such as the Game Feed and Dueling Pianos. Tate is currently undecided on a future career.
Ava Anderson – Hutchinson, SD
Ava Anderson was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. Her favorite part about high school sports is the families built within high school sports teams. Through every hardship, teammates have to choose to support and encourage each other. To Ava, agriculture is about hard work and dedication. Although she’s not directly involved in ag, she participates in FFA where she has learned to greatly appreciate agriculture. Ava participates in volleyball, FFA, yearbook, student council, wrestling stats, band, chorus, is a class officer and teaches Sunday school at her church. Ava plans to attend SDSU in the fall of 2024 for either nursing or elementary education.
Click Here to View the 2022 Players With Heart
Madison Lauck, Salem, SD
Madison Lauck was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. Her favorite part about high school sports is having the opportunity to be a part of a team. She enjoys encouraging her teammates as well as the opportunity to be a leader. Agriculture has always been a huge part of Madison’s life. While growing up, she would see firsthand from her grandparents how important agriculture is. Madison is involved in volleyball, golf, FFA, 4-H, FCA, student council, band and is involved with her church. Once she graduates, she plans to attend a four-year college and major in something related to agriculture.
Nick Kappenman, Madison, SD
Nick Kappenman was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his commitment and passion on and off the court. His favorite part about high school sports is the opportunity to grow in the sport and be able to build relationships with teammates on and off the court. Agriculture and growing up on a farm have helped Nick understand the value of hard work and seeing something grow from start to finish. Nick is involved in volleyball, NHS, student council, FFA, Best Buddies, Student Ambassadors, 4-H, high school rodeo, Dakota State University volleyball and St. Thomas youth group. After graduation, Nick would like to attend The University of Texas at Austin to study sports management and sports analytics and hopes to be involved with the college volleyball team.
Cally Faulhaber, Plankinton, SD
Cally Faulhaber was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her commitment and passion on and off the court. Her favorite part about high school sports is getting to compete and meeting new people. Agriculture is a huge part of Cally’s life. Growing up on a farm has helped her to view the world differently, allowing her to see the hard work that provides for our world. Agriculture has also helped her in deciding what she wants to do after she graduates. Cally is involved in track, basketball, volleyball, Student Council, FCCLA, oral interpretation, NHS, yearbook, and all school play. Once she graduates, Cally plans to go to college to pursue a degree in agricultural education.
Landon Wallman – Yale, SD
Landon Wallman was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his efforts on and off the court and track. His favorite part about high school sports is making a lot of connections and friends, the fans and the community support. Landon has learned from his family that agriculture takes a strong work ethic and perseverance, as you never know what the next day is going to bring. Landon is involved in basketball, track, NHS, discipleship groups, student council and is senior class president. He also participates in several church and community activities. After graduation, Landon plans to attend South Dakota State University to major in ag business and hopes to return to the family farm after college.
Trey Bourelle, Clark, SD
Trey Bourelle was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his efforts on and off the field and court. His favorite part about high school sports is the thrill of the game and the memories made with friends. When Trey thinks of agriculture, he thinks of all the farmers and hands-on people he knows. He thinks it’s truly amazing with everything that goes into agriculture and the work those people do. Trey is involved in football, basketball, FBLA, student council and Tackle the Cure project. After graduation, Trey plans play football in college while studying to become a physical therapist.
Paige Hanson – Ramona, SD
Paige Hanson was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her efforts on and off the court. Her favorite part about high school sports is the bonds she has formed with her teammates. To Paige, agriculture has taught her valuable life lessons such as responsibility, hard work, perseverance, time management and patience. It has also given her countless opportunities to learn and grow. Paige is involved in volleyball, basketball, track, student council, yearbook, NHS, 4-H and is a member of several community organizations. After graduation, Paige plans to pursue a degree in animal science.
Sam Hofer, Emery, South Dakota
Sam Hofer was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for his efforts on the field and beyond. His favorite part about high school sports is how the community rallies around the team and comes together to support them every game. It is amazing to see how much they care about the kids. To Sam, agriculture means opportunity. Agriculture offers and endless number of opportunities that students can learn about and pursue a career in. Sam is involved in football, basketball, baseball, track and helps with numerous banquets as well as the First Baptist Church in Emery. After Sam graduates, he plans to attend SDSU and major in business. His hopes are to get an offer to play football as well.
Aubree Kranz, Salem, South Dakota
Aubree Kranz was nominated as a Beck’s Player with Heart for her efforts on and off the court. Aubree’s favorite thing about high school sports is being able to play the sports she loves while having fun with her friends. She also enjoys the memories she has made and the lessons they have taught her. Through the FFA, Aubree has learned the importance of teaching others about where the things we use in our everyday life come from. Agriculture also provides everyone with endless learning opportunities. Aubree is involved in FCA, NHS, FBLA, volleyball, basketball, golf and she is the president of her local FFA chapter. Once she graduates, Aubree plans to pursue a degree in science and then go into the medical field and get her Ph.D.
Nolan Schmidt, Crooks, South Dakota
Nolan Schmidt was nominated as Beck’s Player with Heart for his efforts on and off the field. His favorite thing about high school sports is the feeling of working as a whole team and becoming a family. To Nolan, agriculture is very important. He grew up on a farm and does chores every day that integrates hard work into his everyday life. Nolan is involved in FFA, football and baseball. His FFA chapter is very involved in their community, feeding farmers every year during harvest and helping with highway cleanup. When Nolan graduates, he plans to attend college to become a veterinarian.
Kaylor Geraets, Chester, South Dakota
Kaylor Geraets was selected as a Beck’s Player With Heart for her efforts on and off the court. Her favorite thing about high school sports is competing alongside some of her best friends. To Kaylor, agriculture is a way of life and has had a major impact on her, as she grew up on a farm. She has learned that hard work and perseverance will help you to become successful and achieve your goals. Kaylor is involved in volleyball, basketball, FFA, choir and Honor Society. After she graduates, Kaylor plans on attending South Dakota State University.