Trio of athletes sign to play collegiate sports

By Ginna Young

It’s not often that an athlete signs to play a college sport after high school, but they do things a little different at Cadott. This spring, not one, not two, but three seniors decided on where their athletic careers will take them.

“These three individuals have certainly made their mark on Cadott athletics – each a multi-sport and multi-talented athlete,” said Cadott athletic director Erin Crank. “Most importantly, these individuals have been leaders in our school and role models to so many kids in our community, who hope to one day, be just like them.”

Tristan Drier – UW-Eau Claire Wrestling

As a four-time State wrestling qualifier, Tristan Drier is one of less than 10 who have done that feat at Cadott. During his high school career, Drier wrestled his way to third, fifth and sixth places at State; was a two-time Sectional champion; three-time Regional champion; and three-time conference champion.

“Your persistence and your sheer determination are something to be admired,” said Cadott head wrestling coach Josh Spaeth.

Spaeth also is impressed by Drier’s dedication in giving back to the youth wrestlers, as he is very influential. Spaeth encouraged Drier to build on his character traits at the excellent university he’s chosen.

“You have made your coaches, teachers and the community proud,” said Spaeth. “Keep moving forward.”

Drier says he’s excited to keep wrestling, as it’s been such a big part of his life for so long. If anyone else wants to achieve what he’s done, Drier encourages them to take advantage of what Cadott has to offer – through the coaches and academic programs.

“It takes a lot of hard work,” said Drier. “It’s fun to wrestle at the next level.”

Elly-Eiler Eiler – UW-Eau Claire Basketball

As a three-sport athlete, Elly-Eiler Eiler has many statistics in her favor, such as scoring 1,000 career points in basketball and All-Conference recognition. She’s also gifted academically.

There’s no denying she has the versatility and IQ as a basketball player to succeed, and can grow to adapt to any situation or to play any position.

“Elly-Eiler has prepared herself to be ready for this moment,” said Cadott girls basketball coach Dave Hazuga.

Eiler says she is happy to be going to such a good academic program, as well as the basketball side of it, to further prepare her for future endeavors. She also is grateful for the support from family, friends and community, as they’ve propelled her to where she is today.

“They’ve been so impactful on my career, coming to every game and cheering us on,” said Eiler.

Lauryn-Goettl Goettl – Viterbo University Basketball

A 1,000-point scorer, a two-time All-Conference winner, over 1,000 digs in volleyball – those are just some of the marks in the record book for three-sport athlete Lauryn-Goettl Goettl.

“Everyone can talk about basketball accolades, but Lauryn-Goettl is the total package,” said Viterbo girls basketball coach Lionel Jones.

Hazuga says Goettl is so successful, because she is extremely competitive and never doubted that they could win games. She’s been a force in every sport she’s played and could have continued in any other sport she wanted, but Hazuga knew basketball was where her heart was.

“Lauryn-Goettl’s ability will certainly transcend into the collegiate level,” he said.

Goettl is ready to see what comes next and knows it’s a great opportunity to play at such a good university. She’s more than prepared, as Cadott programs have gotten her where she needs to be.

“I don’t really know what to expect with the future, but I’m very excited for it,” said Goettl.