STURGIS, S.D. – Three football players from Sturgis will be heading to Madison this fall to compete in football at Dakota State University.

Gunnar Sarkela, Dakota State University, Football

Gunnar Sarkela, a six-foot, 205 pound linebacker, started playing football for the Scoopers since his freshman year after moving to Sturgis from San Diego.

He’s also been wrestling for the Scoopers for the past four years.

Sarkela said having two of his teammates from Sturgis at Dakota State will make the transition easier.

“My main reason that I chose Dakota State was that two of my buddies had signed there,” said Gunnar Sarkela. “We’ve been playing football together for four years now. So it’s cool to be able to go onto the next level and continue playing with the kids that I’ve been playing with.”

Carter Williams, Dakota State University, Football

Carter Williams plans to play football this fall for the Dakota State Trojans.

Williams is a four-sport athlete, playing basketball, baseball, football and track for two years.

Williams was the starting quarterback at Sturgis last fall and he plans to play the same position at Dakota State.

“When I came into town for my visit in Madison, it was very similar to home,” said Carter Williams. “Small town feel. Coaching staff is awesome. Really broad academic opportunities. I can do lots of different things since I am a little undecided at the moment.”

Cade Willnerd, Dakota State University, Football

Cade Willnerd is taking his talents to Dakota State University, as well.

Willnerd, who competes in both football and wrestling at Sturgis High School, was recruited to play long snapper for the Trojans.

He considered a few other schools before deciding that Dakota State was the best fit.

“I just kind of fell in love with the place,” said Cade Willnerd. “Just the facilities and the work they put in out there. It’s just amazing. Brand new football field. Brand new weight room and everything. I just really feel in love with the place.”

Coming up on Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 5:30 p.m., We’ll introduce you to two more Sturgis seniors who plan to continue their football careers right here in the Black Hills.

Justin Wickersham has been at KNBN since September 1999 and is currently the Sports Director.