Local College Student Josh Aakre Accepts Invitation to Play Football in Germany

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Bethel University Quarterback Josh Aakre

SAINT PAUL, MN (03/15/2012)(readMedia)-- Josh Aakre, a four-year contributor to the Royals offense, has made a name for himself beyond Bethel University and the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC). He was recently asked to join the Osnabrück Tigers football squad. The Tigers, a German team in the northern half of the country, competes in the Regionalliga North in Group South.

Aakre, a senior from Dawson, Minn., was contacted via Facebook by Tigers head coach Jovi Stojceski, who inquired about Aakre because of the Tigers' desire for a running quarterback. His request was understandable, as Aakre finished his senior season with the most touchdowns for a single season in school history. Of the 30 touchdowns scored last year, 14 were rushing, as Aakre finished the season as a top ten rusher in the conference with 841 yards on 141 rushes. His 6.0 yards-per-carry and 84 yards-per-game helped him finish fifth overall in both categories.

This wasn't the first time Aakre was contacted by a team outside of the United States--nor was it the first time the quarterback had thought about life overseas. Aakre says he was contacted earlier in the fall by a different team and had grown to appreciate other cultures after traveling to Belize for a class over interim break.

When asked about what excites him most, Aakre responds, "The opportunity to continue to play football – the sport I absolutely love, have grown up with, have watched since I was a little boy – is exhilarating." Aakre continues, "I was initially hesitant about the culture barrier and how it cuts into my educational desires, though."

Bethel University Head Coach Steve Johnson believes that the change of scenery may be one of the most valuable components to this opportunity. "Having the chance to play football in a different country is truly exciting. Josh will learn a new culture and I am excited about what encounters he will experience. It will be an eye-opening time, but I am anxious to witness 'Aak's' growth in the process."

Aakre listened to a former professional athlete from his hometown who spent significant time in Germany. Former NBA and European player Jeff Nordgaard, also a Dawson, Minn. native, advised Aakre that the language barrier is moderate and that Germany, in general, is very Americanized and easy to get around.

Fortunately, it won't be a completely unknown setting, as Aakre states that each German team has the opportunity to bring in four American players and he will likely play with three others from the United States. The quarterback also notes that the offensive coordinator is from Des Moines, Iowa.

One item Aakre intentionally prayed about as he was determining whether to accept the offer was the question of finishing his collegiate degree this spring. But Bethel made it possible for him to finish his final few weeks of classes online, giving him the option to submit his final projects and papers via email.

The German team needed Aakre to make his decision quickly. After studying the contract and talking with family and close friends, Aakre made the decision to go for it. "Football was something my dad wishes he wouldn't have given up as early as he did and it's something I can't see myself giving up yet," says Aakre. "If it's only for a year, I am okay with that. But if more doors open up in the future I will be greatly excited to be a vessel wherever the Lord has me."

Bethel University's quarterback coach, Scott Kirchoff, expresses his excitement for Josh in the new endeavor. "Josh's ability to play in Germany provides a neat opportunity to showcase his athletic skills and serve those in a very different culture," says Kirchoff. "Just by virtue of going somewhere that is unfamiliar will allow him to grow emotionally, relationally, and spiritually."

Aakre knows this is a unique experience and he sees it as an outlet to use his Bethel education and experiences in the real world. "The coaching I've had has prepared me as a better QB and player. That will give me the skills to be a better player overseas," expresses Aakre. "The city life here has changed my perspective after growing up in a small town. Furthermore, my education, intertwined with the faith component, has allowed me to strengthen my faith as I go into a new place, new culture, and new religious thoughts thrown at me."

Aakre leaves for Osnabrück the week of March 26, as he and the Tigers will prepare for the upcoming season that starts in May and stretches until September.

Bethel University is a leader in Christ-centered higher education with approximately 6,600 students from 48 states and 25 countries enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, seminary, and adult education programs. Based in St. Paul, Minn., with additional seminary locations on both coasts, Bethel offers rigorous bachelor's and advanced degrees in nearly 100 relevant fields. For further information on Bethel University, go to www.bethel.edu.