MSC Sports, 2000s

by Larry Scott

The Dragons’ stranglehold on NSC Indoor and Outdoor track brethren began to loosen in the early 1990s, and Smith resigned after the 1992 season. Reclaiming the top rung in the NSIC was too tall an order for new coach Joe Fisher, but the Dragons were not without some individual stars, including middle distance specialist Michelle Berger (Fergus Falls), hurdler Tanya Wilde (Moorhead) and pole vaulter Aaron Clark (Moorhead). Keith Barnier was installed as head track coach in 2002 and quickly developed four All-Americans, including NCAA II National Indoor weight throw champion Belinda Eastlack in 2004.

MSU Moorhead charged into a new century anxious to chase some lofty individual and team challenges and create some lasting memories. Still, the playing field was less than level and finding real success in the expanded 10-team Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference and achieving notoriety under the umbrella of the rugged NCAA Division II was a daunting task, indeed. But there were reasons for optimism. A seven-million dollar facelift to Alex Nemzek Hall restored the home of the Dragons to a first-rate facility and enhanced recruiting opportunities. The renovation of Ron Masanz Track at Alex Nemzek Stadium restored a regional showcase for men and women’s track. In addition, an expanded staff that included more coaching and support staff, including a fulltime fund-raiser and promotions position, assistant athletic director, and additional athletic training help, sent a clear signal that the Dragons were serious. Dr. Alfonso Scandrett, Jr. assumed the position of Athletic Director at MSU Moorhead in 2004.

Indeed, there was ample reason for hope that MSU Moorhead was well positioned to maintain its status as a serious player in the business of intercollegiate athletics.