Esko’s Marisa Pender Reflects on Championship Glory, Inspires Youth

UPDATE: Marisa Pender, a celebrated athlete from Esko, Minnesota, reflects on her triumphant high school sports career, emphasizing the profound impact it had on her personal development. Just today, Pender shared her insights on the “euphoric moments” that defined her time as a runner and a leader.

Pender, who graduated in 2013, believes high school sports are a crucial tool for cultivating character and leadership. “I don’t know whether people realize the long-term benefits of high school sports,” she stated, highlighting the invaluable lessons learned through teamwork and dedication.

The Esko community has played a significant role in Pender’s athletic journey. “We had devoted coaches with integrity,” she recalled. “It’s unbelievable how many people came to our games and meets.” This small town’s big support helped Pender thrive in multiple sports, including cross country and soccer.

Pender, the eldest of four daughters in the Shady family, began her athletic journey at a young age. Since moving to Esko at just six years old, she engaged in various activities, from gymnastics to basketball. The turning point came in seventh grade when she decided to join the cross country team, despite her mother’s initial skepticism.

Esko’s girls’ cross country team achieved remarkable success during Pender’s tenure, qualifying for the Minnesota State High School League championships every year. Pender excelled, improving her standings each season, culminating in a stunning victory in her sophomore year. “I was more surprised than anyone,” she described her championship race. “It was just the most euphoric moment.”

In her senior year, the 2012 Esko girls’ team claimed the state title by an impressive 35 points over the runner-up. Pender finished fifth individually, solidifying her legacy as a key player in the team’s success.

Throughout her athletic career, Pender earned 18 varsity letters and became a 14-time state medalist. Her achievements in track and field were complemented by her participation in basketball, where she played alongside her close friend, 6-foot-9 Savanna Trapp, who faced her own challenges after competing for UCLA.

Pender’s academic pursuits matched her athletic achievements. Home-schooled for part of her education, she began taking college classes through the Postsecondary Education Options program in her junior year, completing nearly two years of college coursework before graduating from high school.

After high school, she accepted a track and field scholarship to South Dakota State University, where she faced injuries but still managed strong performances. Today, Pender has transitioned to CrossFit, training alongside her husband, Michael Pender, and raising their two children, Jackson and Kiara.

Reflecting on her journey, Pender credits her high school experiences for instilling the Finnish concept of ‘sisu’, meaning determination and perseverance. “High school and athletics laid the foundation for who I am,” she stated, emphasizing the lifelong skills she gained.

As Pender continues to inspire the next generation, her story underscores the significant role of sports in shaping character and building resilience. Her journey from Esko to collegiate athletics serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community support and personal dedication in achieving greatness.

For those interested in the stories of Minnesota athletes, Patrick Mader, author and contributor to mnathletes.com, highlights the impact of such narratives on current and future sports enthusiasts.

Stay tuned for more updates on inspiring athletes like Marisa Pender and their journeys beyond high school sports.