By John McLoone

It was a big night for recognizing success at the onset of the ISD 200 School Board meeting Wednesday night.

First on stage – or standing in front of the board in the Hastings Middle School Media Center – were Hastings state champion wrestlers Skylar Little Soldier and Blake Beissel.

Little Soldier was the first-ever female state champion at 132 lbs. in the inaugural girls state championship earlier this month. Beissel was the state champ at 106 in Class AAA for the Raiders.

Superintendent Dr. Robert McDowell said that Little Soldier’s win was especially meaningful, given this year is the 50th anniversary of Title IX, signed into law by Pres. Richard Nixon in 1972. The measure requires that sports and other programs that receive federal funding be offered equally.

“I’m going to steal a quote from the Minnesota State High School League,” he said. “In a milestone congruent with the celebratory journey to recognize the 50th birthday of Title IX, the Minnesota State High School League made history on Saturday, March 5. With the first-time state championship crowning of 12 female participants during the wrestling state tournament at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. The federal Title IX landmark legislation that created equal opportunity for females was signed into law on June 23, 1972. And this is a big deal for Hastings because at the 132-weight class, Skylar Little Soldier from Hastings is a State champion.”

The announcement drew applause from the audience. Mc-Dowell then introduced Beissel and his achievements, drawing another round of applause.

“If memory serves me correctly, wrestlers don’t say a lot, they do a lot. What we’d like to do here is just recognize the fact that it’s a big accomplishment just to go to state. It’s a huge accomplishment to be number one in the state, particularly at the weight class you’re in. With that, I would offer my congratulations,” said McDowell.

Said Board Chair Brian Davis, “I just want to say that I’m incredibly proud of you too. I think this is just a tremendous accomplishment.”

“Skylar, I just want to say one thing,” said Director Stephanie Malm. “My daughter was 10 years old this past summer and attended your workshop. And when I told her that Skylar won, she said she can’t wait for this summer to go to a work session. You are paving the way for the next generation. Great work, the two of you.”

Director Becky Beissel commented, “You both know I’ve known you since you were little. You’ve been workout partners since you were 5 years old. It’s amazing watching you grow up to be the young adults that you’ve become.”

The congratulatory messages then turned to the Hastings Show Choir. McDowell pointed out the successes the choir earned this season. The choir’s Dynamic Edition, an all-female junior varsity choir, won one first runner-up, one best show band recognition and one grand champion award. The varsity Riverside Company had an exceptional show season, competing throughout the Midwest. Riverside Company finished with two runner-up finishes, two best band wards, one best choreography awards, four best local choir awards and three grand champion awards.

Director Luke Warren introduced Riverside officers Aiden Sorenson Hope Davis and Henry Ashman.

“I just also wanted to make sure that I acknowledge the incredible leadership of these young people and all members. At Riverside, we have 54 singers, 20 band members, eight crew members and a pair of volunteers. If you’re part of that, it truly is an activity that takes a village,” he said. “We’re just thankful to get back to the performance stage this year. Thanks to all the students and to these three particularly exemplary leaders during the season.”

“Congratulations,” said Director Lisa Hedin. “I know coming out of last year, when you had to do one performance outdoors and then come back with the energy and the dynamics and the commitment and connection, it’s about the senior leadership and it’s about administrative leadership.”

Director Carrie Tate echoed those sentiments. “I had the privilege of going to a show. It literally blew my mind what you guys were able to do up there. I was exhausted just watching what you’re able to do with costume changes and the constant motion. It was absolutely amazing.”