Photos by Hillary Ehlen
All of us purvey the furthest regions for the latest information about NDSU athletics. Some of us go to social media, others turn on the television or the radio and some may even open up the newspaper. Regardless of your medium, we all see the same familiar faces when searching out the latest Bison news. So, we thought it would be nice to bring attention to the hard work these recognizable figures bring to our community. Without them, how would we stay up to date with our favorite school? The fact of the matter is that the Fargo-Moorhead area would be far less informed about NDSU athletics without these people. That is why we pieced together the Bison Media Guide.
KVLY
Ryan Gellner
Sideline Reporter/PreGame Host for KVLY/KFYR – Bison Football Network
In your opinion, how has North Dakota State athletics become so successful?
“I think that’s easy. It’s the leadership. You think back to the vision that President Chapman and Gene Taylor had when NDSU made the move to Division 1. Craig Bohl put the right assistants and the right plan into place. Fast forward a handful of years – and that same foundation still works today. President Bresciani doesn’t get enough credit for his leadership. Matt Larsen has quietly rolled up his sleeves and just keeps churning out successful project after project. Chris Klieman and his staff continue to recruit hard, finding good kids who buy into the system and just do things the right way. The leadership at NDSU is second to none, and it shows.”
Years Covering NDSU
12
In your years covering North Dakota State, what has been your fondest memory?
“There are a few lasting memories. Obviously, the National Championships stick out, each one is quite unique. Some of the home playoff games and the level of noise is something I’ll always remember. But, my fondest memory is actually away from the football field. I have the advantage of seeing these coaches and student-athletes do more than just play football. I think about the airplane rides, the time at the hotels, and the times before and after games. Time and time again, I am reminded of how professional the coaching staff is. How smart and caring and appreciative each of the players is. These men are the true definition of “Bison Pride” both on and off the field.”
Fun Fact
“Television isn’t my full-time job. I work for the North Dakota Association of Counties as a Program Manager. I also officiate both high school and college athletics.”
Beth Hoole
Sports Director for KVLY & Bison Football Co-Host for KVLY/KFYR – Bison Football Network
In your opinion, how has North Dakota State athletics become so successful?
“They focus on fostering relationships first. It builds a family and community that can’t be broken.”
In your years covering North Dakota State, what has been your fondest memory?
“This is a cruel question! I have so many! I’ll say the podium after the 2014 National Championship when Chris Klieman won his first title as head coach. Seeing Chris and Gene Taylor, two of my favorite people ever, hug after that win gives me goosebumps to think about.”
What does covering the Bison mean to you?
“It’s the greatest adventure I never saw coming. The success on the field has been thrilling to cover but the friendships mean the most. The bonds with parents. The support of coaches and their wives and the continued willingness of former players to come back and join me for countless pregame shows in Frisco, or wherever I track them down, has meant the world to me.”
Years Covering NDSU
8
Fun Facts
“I’ve lost 75 pounds in the last year.”
“My first interaction with local news was in 5th grade when I was interviewed after being rescued from a Girl Scouts camp that flooded.”
Alex Egan
Sports Anchor/Reporter for KVLY
In your opinion, how has North Dakota State athletics become so successful?
“Every team has a high standard and there is a mindset of hard work leading to success in the entire athletic department.”
What does covering the Bison mean to you?
“I originally wanted to be a high school Social Studies teacher.”
Years Covering NDSU
3
Fun Facts
“I played soccer for 10+ years growing up”
“I like getting to know the athletes and coaches and learn their stories. I like to see them as more than a number on a uniform.”
