WADENA, Minn. (KWAD) – Wadena-Deer Creek standout runner Grant Nelson will be taking his running talents to Concordia College in Moorhead, joining the Cobber Cross Country and Track & Field programs next season.
A six-time state qualifier, Nelson has excelled across multiple sports — three times in cross country and three times (so far) in track and field. This fall, the senior recorded his best section finish yet, placing fifth at Minnewaska, and previously finished 26th at state as a junior. On the track, he has qualified for state in both the 800- and 1600-meter runs, and looks to cap off his high school career with a podium finish next spring.
Nelson’s athletic resume doesn’t end there — he’s also been a member of the WDC Nordic Ski team since its inception during his eighth-grade year. “All of my track and cross country coaches have been amazing,” said Nelson. “Terry Olson has coached me in all three sports, and he’s played a huge role in shaping my success. I’m especially grateful to have him as my Nordic coach — that sport provides such a great aerobic base for track season.”
Head Cross Country Coach Mike Brunsberg described Nelson as a model of consistency and composure: “Grant is smart and meticulous about all the small things that matter when racing against the best. He’s calm and patient, but when it’s time to finish, he’s got that fiery grit that separates him from the pack.”
That grit helped power the Wolverine Boys Cross Country Team to its first state tournament appearance since 1993, where they finished 10th overall.
Nelson plans to major in Biology and Biochemistry at Concordia, with the goal of pursuing a career in medicine. He said he was drawn to the Cobber program for its strong academics, family-like atmosphere, and the leadership of Coach Maddie VanBeek, who brings Division I-level experience to the program.
“I feel like Concordia is the perfect place to combine my passion for running with my passion for science,” Nelson said. “I’m excited to study how biomechanics and performance work at a molecular level — and to keep growing as an athlete and a student.”