BREAKING: Esko’s own Marisa Pender reflects on her triumphant journey through high school sports, marking a legacy that resonates with athletes today. Pender emphasizes the profound impact of high school athletics on character development, stating, “I don’t know whether people realize the long-term benefits of high school sports. It’s such a valuable tool for character and leadership development.”
Pender, who moved to Esko at just six years old, vividly recalls the community’s support for their athletic teams. “Esko is a small town with great athletic success,” she noted, highlighting the overwhelming turnout at games and meets.
Throughout her high school career, Marisa’s dedication led her to six consecutive appearances at the Minnesota State High School League cross country championships. Balancing dual sports, she excelled in both cross country and soccer, achieving a state appearance in 2011. Her coaches, Tim Lindquist and Jerry Zimny, played pivotal roles in her development, providing crucial support.
Marisa’s success peaked in her sophomore year when she stunned everyone by winning the cross country title. “I was more surprised than anyone. I never felt as good as I did in that race. It was just the most euphoric moment,” she said. In 2012, she led her team to a stunning championship victory, clinching the title by a remarkable 35 points over runner-up Annandale.
Reflecting on her achievements, Marisa described the camaraderie among her teammates, stating, “We had something special with a core group of athletes and coaches who believed in us.” She finished fifth as an individual in that championship race, cementing her place in Esko sports history.
The Esko girls’ team triumphed not only in cross country but also in the state True Team championships from 2011 to 2013. Pender earned an impressive 18 varsity letters and became a 14-time state medalist during her high school tenure.
Marisa’s athletic journey did not end at the high school level. She received a track and field scholarship to South Dakota State University, where she faced challenges due to injuries but still managed to showcase her talent. Now, she competes in CrossFit and trains alongside her husband, Michael Pender, who is a financial advisor originally from Moose Lake.
With two children, Jackson and Kiara, Marisa continues to break barriers. After three years as a bedside nurse, she achieved a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree in 2023, demonstrating that her determination extends beyond sports.
Marisa’s story serves as an inspiration, encapsulating the essence of perseverance and grit. “High school and athletics laid the foundation for who I am. They provided me with the Finnish word ‘sisu,’” she explained.
As her legacy continues to inspire new generations of athletes, Marisa Pender remains a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication in sports.
Stay tuned for more updates on Esko’s rising stars and their ongoing impact on the community and beyond.
