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MHS’s Allie Nelson signs with NDSU track and field

Jimmy Lafakis/MDN Minot High senior Allie Nelson signs her letter of intent to run track at North Dakota State University. Nelson currently participates in volleyball, basketball and track for Minot.

In the midst of the winter sports season, Allie Nelson took the next step in her track and field career.

Nelson signed with North Dakota State University on Thursday evening. She runs mid-distance and participates in the long jump and high jump events for the Minot High School girls track team.

Nelson finished her volleyball career in the fall and currently plays for Minot’s girls basketball team.

“I’m super-excited,” Nelson said. “I have such a great support system. It just makes making these decisions so much easier for the next chapter.”

Last season, Nelson ran a personal-best 59.73 in the 400-meter race in the Class A state meet. Minot head coach Disa Julius has watched Nelson progress throughout her career. .

“I’m super-excited that she’s going to be a Bison track girl,” Julius said. “That’s fo r sure. For her to choose track and field at NDSU, she’s going to be a superstar there.”

Several teammates and friends joined Nelson as she signed at Minot’s Magic City Campus. Nelson’s parents, Shawn and Gwen, also showed support.

“We’re going to be excited to follow her as parents,” Shawn said. “We’re looking forward to her career at NDSU. She had some success as a young eighth-grader running on varsity with cross country, then had some success high jumping. That led into a passion for track. She really enjoys high jumping.”

From the seventh through 10th grade, Nelson ran for head coach Carla Wahlund on the cross country team. Although Nelson decided to play volleyball as a junior, Wahlund continues to coach her in track.

“She’s a really talented girl,” Wahlund said. “Academically, as well. This is just exciting. This is another athlete I’m proud of, and it’s fun to be a part of.”

With green and yellow balloons by her side, Nelson reflected on the night.

“It’s definitely surreal,” she said. “It seems like this moment has been building up for so long. To actually have it official feels great.”

Jimmy Lafakis covers Minot High School sports and Class B high school sports. Follow him on Twitter @JJLII30.

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