Owatonna Youth 1st Treats ‘Real Winning’ Teams to a College Game

Nine Owatonna youth football teams were recently recognized as "Real Winning" teams by Youth 1st. They also were invited to attend the MSU-Mankato game against Winona State.

The Owatonna Park and Recreation youth teams were honored during a presentation at the Owatonna High School football field on October 19. Teams were graded by game officials during their season on their sportsmanship and respect for their opponents and the officials.

Mark Arjes of Youth 1st pointed out that the coaches, parents and fans are also part of the equation and creating a positive experience for the youth players. A mission of Youth 1st is to connect conduct, character and community through values-based youth development.

Players received a certificate recognizing their efforts for being named a "Real Winning Team." They also received tickets to Saturday's football game in Mankato. Those who attended the Division II college football game between Minnesota State University, Mankato and Winona State saw a thrilling upset as the Warriors upset top-ranked Mankato. OHS graduate Carter McCauley is the Winona State kicker and connected on a 44-yard field goal, plus was perfect on PATs in the game.

Arjes recently spoke with KRFO's Roy Koenig about sportsmanship and reacted to a couple of the national stories that have broken this fall.