Owatonna Champs Name Season’s Award Winners

Braun and brains, records and retirement were among the topics covered during Sunday's Owatonna High School football awards banquet as the team and its fans reflected on a second consecutive state championship season. Nearly 300 people attended the event at the Eagles Club.

Big Nine Scholar Athlete honorees included Matt Segler, David Keller, Jason Williamson, Zander Johnson, Nick Staska, Joe Edel anjd AJ DeAlba. The Huskies earned All-State Academic Gold Designation.

Williamson was named the team's Most Valuable Player for a second straight year after shattering numerous records. Segler was crowned the Special Teams Player of the Year. Isaac Gefre received the Defensive Player of the Year Award.

Chris Lewis and Joe Edel shared the Lineman of the Year Award. Johnson was named the Champion of the Year. He also received the Teammate of the Year Award at the Prep Bowl, a Minnesota State High School League honor.

Retiring coach Delles Solie received a standing ovation, and an engraved fishing rod, after about 30 years in the Owatonna system and 40 years overall as a high school coach.

The captains for 2019 will be Isaiah Noeldner, Zach Wiese, Carson DeKam and Gefre.

The Huskies won their second straight state title in November, beating St. Thomas Academy 14-3 in the Prep Bowl. It is the third state football championship for OHS.