GRAND FORKS – University of North Dakota (UND) head football coach Eric Schmidt announced two prospective student-athletes signed with the Fighting Hawks on Wednesday.

“Today is another opportunity to officially welcome two new student-athletes to the family,” said Coach Schmidt. “I’m really excited about Easton and Carter and the potential that they have to not only contribute on the field and help us win a lot of games, but also with what we see ourselves building here in the future. They’re high character, tough and passionate about the game of football. Also, they value the academic degree that UND offers and the experience that exists in our community.”

Names are listed in alphabetical order

Easton Choate | P/K | 5-10 | 175 | Syracuse, Utah | Syracuse HS

Spent the 2024 season as a specialist at Syracuse HS after spending the three previous years at Roy HS … Went 14-for-18 kicking as a senior and set the school record for field goals made in a season as a Titan … Had a prep long of 49 yards and made seven field goals from 40+ yards out … Averaged 39.6 yards per punt in 2024 … Earned 6A First Team All-State honors … Named the All-Region M.V.P. as a specialist.

Carter Kleinsasser | Edge | 6-2 | 220 | Mound, Minn. | Westonka HS

Played four years at Westonka HS as a linebacker and tight end … Racked up 43 tackles, six tackles-for-loss and two sacks as a senior … Hauled in seven receptions for 107 yards and a touchdown in 2024 … Earned Second Team All-State honors as a senior … Named All-District both as a junior and senior … 2024 District Linebacker of the Year … Played in the 2024 Minnesota All-Star Game … Son of UND great and 2025 NFF College Football Hall of Fame inductee Jim Kleinsasser.