St. Michael-Albertville's Brendan Sage, pictured above with bib #543, will run for the Jackrabbits next year, signing with South Dakota State University last week. Sage, a 3-time MSHSL State Cross Country Meet participant, has been a strong distance athlete in both cross country and track and field.
He selected South Dakota State University after considering several schools, including the University of North Dakota, Iowa State University and UW-LaCrosse. He found that each of the schools he considered offered significantly different experiences. "My plan was to find a place I was satisfied with athletically, then make sure it had what I needed academically. I was not going to force myself to go to a Division II or III national power and not have a major I liked. What matters most is the academics. Finally, the coach was a huge factor for me. I really like Rod DeHaven at SDSU and the way he runs things in Brookings." Sage is considering studying in the areas of accounting and mathematics. "A plan I had in my head was to minor in accounting, and major in mathematics with an emphasis in actuarial science."
Sage has experienced success in high school both on and off the course, earning Academic All-State Honors, as well as several Academic Excellence Awards through his high school where he is also a member of the National Honor Society. His favorite memory reflects his desire to be competitive while maintaining a positive, and humble, perspective. "My favorite memory related to running would have to be competing behind the 3200 Meter Class AA State Champ, Jake Autio, my freshman year of track. He made me into who I am today and set a good example on being a classy guy."
Sage originally had collegiate goals of becoming an All-American at a Division II or III school until he realized he had a shot to go Division I. "By choosing SDSU, I have not picked too big of a school in which I cannot compete, but a school where I have a shot at making the team as well as competing against the best in the country. The only way to be the best is to compete with the best. I honestly think I have accomplished nothing near what I am capable of and have adjusted my goal to competing at nationals."
When giving advice on the college selection process to high school athletes, Sage recommends making a pros and cons list for the schools you are considering. "Many people go to schools because of the perks, but that can come with a lot of downsides. SDSU had little to no cons which made it an easy decision. Another piece of advice is to make sure you weigh in the coach/athletes at the school - don't force yourself to go somewhere with someone you do not like during the four full years."
Personal Bests
800 Meter Run
2:05.94
1,600 Meter Run
4:23.30
3,200 Meter Run
9:42.46
5,000 Meter Run
15:36.50
More Coverage
Brendan's Athlete Profile
St. Michael-Albertville Team Page
Class of 2013 Signings List