For the Hub City Times

MARSHFIELD – On Oct. 21, Columbus Catholic Schools senior, Noah Eckelberg signed on to become a member of the Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) Wheelchair Basketball Team.

Noah has excelled as a wheelchair athlete on the CCS Track and Field Team and the Mad City Badgers Basketball Team.

SMSU is a Division II University located in Marshall, MN.  It is part of the Intercollegiate Division of the National Wheelchair Basketball Association.

“Noah is a great student-athlete that embodies the characteristics we are looking for at SMSU,” said Derek Klinkner, SMSU wheelchair basketball coach.  “Noah’s high character, work ethic, and athletic ability will be a great addition to our family.  Noah is an extremely driven and motivated individual and we look forward to helping him grow over the next 4-5 years.”

“I’m excited to be furthering my academic and athletic career at SMSU,” said Noah.  “I will be majoring in physical education and completing a minor in coaching.  I will also work towards becoming a licensed adaptive sports coach.”

Eckelberg is currently in his fourth year with the Mad City Badgers. During his time with the Badgers, the team has been invited to play for the NWBA National Tournament.

“We are very proud of Noah and his decision,” said Noah’s mom, Aimie Eckelberg.  “We are excited to see what his future holds.”