Mayville State University in North Dakota might not be a well-known school to many people in Southern Nevada, but it has become a destination for at least 26 football players from the Las Vegas area. The small university, located in Mayville near the Minnesota border, has been attracting players from Southern Nevada for several years now.
The head coach of the Mayville State football team, Rocky Larson, first got the idea to recruit players from Las Vegas while on vacation in the city. He saw the potential for untapped talent and decided to start recruiting players from all over Southern Nevada, regardless of which high school they attended. Larson and his coaching staff have been successful in bringing these players to Mayville State, where they play on scholarships ranging from 10 percent to full.
While the small town and cold weather of Mayville can be a shock to some players from Las Vegas, many of them have come to appreciate the close-knit community and the culture of the football team. Senior linebacker Devon Woods, for example, enjoys the camaraderie among teammates and the support from the coaching staff. Other players, like sophomore running back Daniel Nevil and senior wide receiver Maalik Flowers, have had to adjust to the different climate but have found the experience to be rewarding.
Despite the challenges of transitioning to life in Mayville, many of the Southern Nevada players have thrived at Mayville State and have become leaders on the team. Players like Woods, Nevil, and Flowers have been standouts on the field, with some, like Javeion Davis, even setting school records. The team has had its ups and downs over the years, but the players remain hopeful for a strong finish to the season.
In the end, Mayville State has provided a unique opportunity for these Southern Nevada players to continue their football careers and receive a college education. The bonds they have formed with their teammates and the experiences they have gained will stay with them long after they graduate. The success of these players at Mayville State is a testament to the talent and determination of student-athletes from Southern Nevada.
For more information on the Southern Nevada players at Mayville State, you can contact Jeff Wollard at jwollard@reviewjournal.com.
