This Saturday afternoon could very well be the last time Ben Helmer and the rest of the 2012 University of Minnesota Duluth senior class ever suit up at James S. Malosky Stadium.
Helmer, a third-year starting tight end and team captain from Ellsworth, Wis., is one of the 11 UMD seniors who will be recognized prior to Saturday's regular season finale clash with Northern State University as part of the Bulldogs' annual Senior Day fesitivities. While the prospects of playing at home again don't look too promising, making the NCAA II playoffs for a fourth straight year -- and extending their Bulldog playing days -- are certainly well within the grasp of Helmer and Co. UMD, after all, currently occupies the No. 6 spot in the NCAA Division II Super Region 3 rankings. Since the top six clubs all advance to the NCAA II dance (which starts next weekend), it would appear -- emphasis on appear -- the situation facing the Bulldogs this Saturday is quite obvious: Win and you're in.
HIS FAVORITES
Opponent: Northwest Missouri State
Opponent Stadium: Verizon Wireless Stadium (Winona State)
Road Trip: Florence, Ala.
Professional Athlete: Ryan Braun
Professional Team: Milwaukee Brewers
Pastime: Watching the Brewers and Packers
College Course: Structural Analysis
Prized Possession: My two national championship rings
Book (Author): The DaVinci Code (Dan Brown)
TV Show: The Big Bang Theory
Singer or Group: O.A.R. or Eric Church
Food: Pizza and mashed potatoes
Movie: Remember the Titans
Actor or Actress: Jason Segel
Restaurant: Buffalo Wild Wings
Vacation Spot: Naples, Fla.
Video Game: NHL or Tiger Woods
Web Site: www.jsonline.com (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
PERSONALLY SPEAKING
Why I Chose UMD: After my recruiting visit, I just knew it was a place for me.
First Played Competitive Football: Flag football in the first grade.
Football Strength/Weakness: My ability to think quickly/My strength.
Game Day Ritual: I go to Mount Royal, get a protein bar and then watch a movie in our locker room.
Most Memorable Football Moment: Winning the 2010 NCAA II title.
Pet Peeve: Bad drivers.
Biggest Fear: The UMD defense.
My First Job: Working for my dad's company.
Person I'd Most Like to Meet: Donald Driver.
What Most People Don't Know About Me: I was in two musicals in high schools.
Best College Player You've Ever Played Against: (Teammate) Joe Akey.
If I Could Change One Thing About Myself: My first step.
Something I Never Leave Home Without: My cell phone.
Advice to a Young Athlete: Regardless of how hard things get, never ever give up -- those are the moments that make champions!
Sport I'd Like to Try Someday: Handball.
Influences On My Athletic Career: My family, but most of all, my dad.
The Best Thing About College Football: The chance to play the greatest game ever every single day.
Post-UMD Plans: Complete the civil engineering Master's program at UMD and then find a job.
