Nelson County's Dagan Slade commits to Boise State

In the quiet town of Michigan, North Dakota, a young woman stands at the precipice of change, her heart racing with anticipation. Dagan Slade, a senior at Nelson County High School, gazes out over the horizon, her dreams stretching far beyond the familiar fields of her childhood. With a fierce determination, she has committed to join the Boise State Broncos next fall, a decision that marks the beginning of a new chapter in her life.

The Journey Begins

Dagan Slade's journey to becoming a two-time North Dakota state champion in shot put has been one of hard work, resilience, and unwavering passion. Ever since childhood, she has been drawn to the idea of exploring the world beyond her home state. "I love North Dakota, especially now being a senior, I'll definitely miss it," she shared. "But I'm really excited to just go out and see what else there is. You can always come back, but you can't always leave." This longing for exploration has propelled her to seek opportunities that extend beyond the borders of her hometown.

Last week, Slade made her commitment to Boise State official, a decision influenced by various factors that resonated deeply with her ambitions. While she received offers from several esteemed programs, including the University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University, it was Boise State that captured her heart. The allure of the vibrant city, the stunning Boise Foothills, and the promise of a competitive athletic environment were significant draws for Slade.

"Boise is a beautiful city and a very pretty area," Slade remarked, highlighting the picturesque landscape that awaits her. Her conversations with Kelsey Betthauser, the throws coach at Boise State, played a pivotal role in her decision. "It was later in my recruiting process, and she wanted to have a phone call. We talked, and it was one of those moments where I didn't really realize what was sitting right next to me." This moment of clarity solidified her choice to join the Broncos, a team she believes aligns with her competitive spirit.

Coaching and Commitment

Slade's commitment to Boise State is not just about the location; it's also about the people she will work with. The coaching staff, led by head coach Pat McCurry, who was appointed in 2024, has a vision that resonates with her own ambitions. "I think they're really ambitious as well," Slade said, expressing her excitement for the competitive environment that awaits her. The prospect of training alongside like-minded athletes and under the guidance of a driven coaching team is a thrilling opportunity for the young athlete.

During her official visit to Boise, Slade was impressed by the state-of-the-art facilities available to athletes. "They have a lot of different resources for their athletes," she noted, emphasizing the importance of medical support, nutrition, and training equipment. The weight room and throwing area stood out to her as places where she could truly hone her craft. The well-maintained facilities signal a commitment to athlete development, something Slade is eager to be a part of.

As she prepares for her transition, Slade reflects on the culmination of her high school career. With a personal-best throw of 47 feet, 7 inches and a state title in hand, she is determined to leave a lasting mark on North Dakota track and field. Her aspirations extend beyond state titles; she aims to surpass 50 feet in the shot put, a goal that would place her in elite company on a national scale.

Aiming for Excellence

Setting her sights high, Slade is not just chasing records; she is striving for excellence. "I really want to try and hit above 50," she stated, clearly motivated by the challenge ahead. This ambitious goal is not merely a personal milestone; it represents her desire to be among the top competitors in the nation. As she prepares for her final season, the prospect of breaking Annie Nabwe's Class A record of 49 feet, 10 inches looms large in her mind.

Slade's dedication to her sport is evident in her training regimen and her mindset. She understands the importance of hard work and perseverance, qualities that have been instilled in her throughout her athletic journey. "Some of those upper-level girls in the nation, they're throwing 50 to 55, so I would really like to be in that conversation this year as well," she said, her determination palpable.

Community Support and Impact

The news of Dagan Slade's commitment has reverberated throughout the Nelson County community, where she is not just a star athlete but a role model for aspiring young athletes. The support from her family, friends, and coaches has been instrumental in shaping her journey. As she prepares to take this significant step, the community stands behind her, celebrating her achievements and encouraging her future endeavors.

Slade's story embodies the spirit of hard work and dedication that resonates deeply within the fabric of North Dakota. Her commitment to Boise State is not just a personal victory but a testament to the potential that exists within the state’s youth. As she embarks on this new adventure, she carries with her the hopes and dreams of those who have supported her along the way.

In a world where the pressures of competition can be overwhelming, Slade's grounded perspective is refreshing. "It was very fun to go and visit all of these different places," she reflected on her recruitment journey. The experience of exploring new states and meeting new people has broadened her horizons, but she remains focused on her goals. "But it is definitely a relief to be done with it, because now I can actually focus on those goals and on (reaching) 50 and on getting myself better," she concluded, embodying the resilience that defines her character.

Looking Ahead

As Dagan Slade prepares for her final season in high school, she is not just looking forward to her future at Boise State; she is also committed to making the most of her time in North Dakota. With the support of her community, she aims to finish her high school career on a high note, setting records and inspiring others along the way. The journey ahead is filled with promise, and Slade is ready to embrace every challenge that comes her way.

In the months leading up to her transition, Slade will continue to train diligently, honing her skills and pushing her limits. The commitment to excellence that she embodies serves as a beacon for young athletes in Nelson County, reminding them of the power of dreams and the importance of hard work.

As the sun sets over the North Dakota plains, Dagan Slade stands ready to take flight. With her sights set on Boise State, she is not just leaving her hometown; she is carrying with her the spirit of a community that believes in her. The journey may take her far from home, but the lessons learned and the support received will always be a part of her story.