A pair of seniors, Max Esser (right) and David Draheim (left), signed their letters of intent to continue their football careers at the collegiate level on Friday (May 15).
In front of their families, a few teammates and head football coach Erik Hermanson (center), the “Signing Day” ceremony was held in the school auditorium. Activities director Walker Froehling presided.
Esser will join the Crown College (just west of the metro area in St. Bonifacius) “Polars” while Draheim will compete just down the road in St. Peter as a Gustavus Adolphus “Gustie.” Both schools are Division III.
Competing at the collegiate level is an accomplishment that very few meet, and that made the day special, Froehling said.
“These two athletes earned this opportunity through hard work, discipline, and sacrifice, not only on the football field but in the classroom and in their everyday lives. Competing at a collegiate level takes a passion for the game, dedication to your teammates and willingness to keep pushing yourselves every day.
The signing stood for more than football, Froehling said.
“It represents perseverance, character and the support of parents, coaches, families, teachers’ teammates and friends who have helped along the way. Cleveland is proud of you.”
Last summer, before his senior football season, Esser, an offensive lineman and nose guard for the Clippers, participated in several camps, including one at Crown.
“I wanted to prove myself. I knew I could do better.”
During the camps, he started thinking about competing at the next level, and at Crown, he was pleased with what he saw.
“I really liked the coaches. I talked to student athletes there too, and they seemed really nice. They said that Crown College is a great college.”
So Esser texted the football coach with the message that he would like to go forward, and the coach gave him an offer. He will prepare for being a defensive end and linebacker, most likely an outside linebacker.
“I think it will be a good fit for me. Their program is what I want.”
Draheim also decided he would like to play college football last summer. So, he toured several colleges, both in and out of state, last fall.
He tweeted his request to visit GAC. While there, he liked the facilities. After, the coach made him an offer.
“Your film looks good. You’d be a great addition to the team.”
“I thought about it and accepted the offer,” said Draheim, who was an offensive and defensive lineman for the Clippers.
Both Esser and Draheim will start a workout program this summer.
Max Esser signs his “letter of intent.”
David Draheim signs his “letter of intent.”
Max Esser and his parents, Pete & Shannon Esser
David Draheim and his parents, Rich & Lynnette Draheim
Activities director Walker Froehling presided over the ceremony.