Becomes second Panther to extend career

Powell High School senior Zach Thiel will continue his football career at Dakota Wesleyan University after signing a letter of intent with the school. Officials at DWU announced Thiel’s signing as part of a recruiting class of 26.

New Dakota Wesleyan head coach Ross Cimpi brought Thiel in to the Tigers’ program as a defensive back after the Panthers’ senior played a key role in a secondary that ranked No. 1 against the pass in 2010 and No. 3 at stopping the pass in 2011. Powell High School led Class 3A in interceptions in both seasons.

Thiel was a three-year starter for the Panthers’ football program. He played a key role in Powell’s Class 3A state championship season this past fall. Additionally, he is currently a state-ranked wrestler for the Panthers after being a three-time letter winner in that sport. Thiel has also been a part of two state champion 4x400 relay teams while lettering four times in track.

Thiel is a three-year academic letter winner and student council officer at Powell High School. He plans to major in athletic training in college.

“We feel very good about this recruiting class,” said Cimpi, who added the Tigers are looking to bring in approximately 40 more players before considering the recruiting class complete. “The coaching staff has worked extremely hard to get quality kids in Tiger uniforms. We have very high expectations for this class.”

Dakota Wesleyan is an NAIA-affiliated school that competes in the Great Plains Athletic Conference. The Tigers compiled a 6-4 overall record last fall.

Zach is the son of Lloyd and Tammy Thiel.