Owatonna Player Honored by Minnesota Vikings
Owatonna High School senior Carson DeKam seems to have time management mastered. He is a three-sport athlete, participates in multiple music programs, and volunteers with several organizations. He was just named a Community Captain Award winner by the Minnesota Vikings.
The Community Captain honor "is awarded to outstanding varsity high school football student-athletes around the start of Minnesota who demonstrate strong leadership on and off the field," according to vikings.com. Only five individuals are honored each year.
Other requirements for nomination include a 3.0 GPA or higher and a history of service to the community. Honorees receive a $1,000 scholarship, a $1,000 donation to a charitable cause, a Vikings game ball, and tickets to a game. DeKam got to meet several members of the Vikings this week during a ceremony.
DeKam volunteers with Adopt a Highway, Toys for Tots, and "Trio of Friends." He is active in National Honor Society, Rotary Club, band, choir, and jazz band. He plays football, basketball, and baseball. He was crowned Homecoming King this fall.
Owatonna football coach Jeff Williams says, "Carson possesses great leadership skills and makes those around him better." DeKam was a captain for the section championship Huskies football team this fall and earned All-District honors at linebacker.
He had 34 solo tackles, 17 assists, and 4.5 sacks for 98.5 defensive points. He also had five receptions from his tight end spot for 63 yards and three touchdowns. Williams added, "Carson's athleticism allowed him to be an impact player at both linebacker and tight end."
DeKam told KRFO during homecoming week that he may pursue commercial aviation or marketing after high school.