Lesko shines as Loboes roll past Lions

The roar of the crowd at Lamoure on Saturday night wasn't just about a football game; it was about a community’s pursuit of a championship dream. Freshman Oliver Lesko, with three touchdowns and a crucial interception, helped propel the LaMoure-Litchville/Marion (L-L/M) Loboes to a 52-28 victory over the Linton/Hazelton-Moffit-Braddock (L-HMB) Lions in the North Dakota 9-man football semifinals on Saturday, Nov. 7. This win marks the Loboes’ third consecutive trip to the Dakota Bowl, a testament to their dedication and resilience—and a source of pride for families across our region who value the hard work and commitment it takes to achieve excellence.

The Game

The game began with a spark from the Lions, who scored first on a touchdown pass from Justin Bosch to Philip Schuetzle. However, the Loboes quickly responded, with Colby Thielges scoring a touchdown and Mason Warcken adding the 2-point conversion to take an 8-6 lead. Oliver Lesko then showcased his talent with a 24-yard touchdown run with nine seconds remaining in the first quarter, extending the lead to 14-6. Lions' sophomore Paxton Mosset scored on a 2-yard run with 6:49 remaining, cutting the deficit to 14-12. The Loboes responded with 12 unanswered points before halftime, culminating in a 26-12 halftime advantage. The North Dakota High School Activities Association oversees such competitions, and this year’s semifinal round demonstrates the passion for high school athletics in our state.

A key moment came when Lesko intercepted a pass near the goal line, effectively ending a potential scoring drive for the Lions. Thielges added another touchdown run, and Warcken connected with Joey Potts for a 39-yard touchdown—Potts’ first of the season after battling back from an injury—to seal the victory. The final score reflected the Loboes' complete control of the game, leaving no doubt about their advancement to the Dakota Bowl.

“I just can't tell you how proud I am of Oliver and our whole team,” head coach Andy DelaBarre said. “We battled; we handled adversity throughout the game, and a lot of credit to Linton. They played a heck of a game.” The victory wasn't just about the score; it was about overcoming challenges and demonstrating the strength of teamwork, values that resonate deeply within our community’s commitment to building strong families and character.

Community Reaction

The atmosphere in Lamoure was electric, a testament to the strong community support for the Loboes. Fans packed the stands, creating a wall of sound that spurred on the players. The victory wasn't just a win for the team; it was a celebration for the entire community, reinforcing the bonds of shared experience and common purpose. The Loboes’ success underscores the importance of community involvement in supporting young athletes and fostering a sense of belonging. It’s a reminder that when families and neighbors rally behind a common goal, anything is possible. The commitment of parents to attending games, volunteering time, and providing encouragement is invaluable to the development of these young men.

Lesko’s Role Model

Despite his standout performance, Oliver Lesko emphasized the importance of senior leadership, crediting Colby Thielges, Owen DelaBarre, and the entire senior class as his role models. “Definitely model my game after Colby,” Lesko said. “I look up to him, Owen, and then all the seniors, really.” This humility and respect for those who came before him speaks volumes about Lesko’s character and the values instilled in him by his family and coaches. It's a powerful example for younger players, demonstrating that success is not solely about individual achievement but about learning from and supporting those around you.

What’s Next

The Loboes now set their sights on the Dakota Bowl, where they will face two-time defending state champion New Rockford-Sheyenne/Maddock on Friday, November 13th. Coach DelaBarre emphasized the importance of maintaining their focus and sticking to the game plan that has brought them success throughout the season. “We've built this foundation throughout the season to get to this,” DelaBarre said. “We're going to trust on everything we've done up until now.” The game promises to be a thrilling contest, and the entire community will be cheering on the Loboes as they pursue their championship dreams.

Mark’s Take

Watching these young men compete—and seeing the way they support one another—reminds us of what’s truly important. It's easy to get caught up in the noise of modern life, but the dedication and sportsmanship displayed by the Loboes offer a powerful counterpoint. The commitment these athletes, their families, and their coaches demonstrate to excellence—both on and off the field—is something we can all aspire to. The success of LaMoure-Litchfield-Marion's football program is a testament to the enduring values of hard work, perseverance, and teamwork – values that are essential for building strong families and thriving communities. It’s a reminder that when young people are given opportunities to learn discipline and responsibility, they are more likely to grow into productive and responsible adults. We should all take pride in these young men and the positive example they set for all of us.

The high rate of family breakdown in our nation has a real cost, not just in terms of financial aid and social services, but in the lost potential of children who don't have the stability of a committed household. Seeing young men like Oliver Lesko—grounded in strong values and supported by a loving community—offers a glimpse of what’s possible when we prioritize family and faith. It’s a reminder that investing in our youth is an investment in our future, and that the pursuit of excellence, both on and off the field, is a worthy endeavor.

Resources

For those interested in supporting the LaMoure-Litchville/Marion School District and its athletic programs, information can be found on their LaMoure-Litchville/Marion School District. Parents and community members who want to get involved in supporting youth athletics can contact the school district or local athletic organizations. The North Dakota Department of Education provides resources and support for schools across the state. For information on youth sports leagues and activities in Jamestown, visit the City of Jamestown website. The Jamestown Chamber of Commerce often supports community initiatives and events that benefit local youth.

The North Dakota High School Activities Association is the governing body for high school athletics and activities in the state, ensuring fair play and providing opportunities for student-athletes to excel. Parents who want to learn more about the importance of character development and sportsmanship can visit the websites of organizations like the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Positive Coaching Alliance positivecoach.org. These resources offer valuable insights and practical tips for fostering a positive and supportive environment for young athletes.

The Loboes’ journey to the Dakota Bowl serves as an inspiration to all of us, reminding us of the power of perseverance, teamwork, and community support. As they prepare for their final game, let’s all rally behind them and celebrate their achievements.