As the school year winds down, two standout seniors from Cannon Falls High School are preparing for their next chapters — both in the classroom and in college athletics. Jack Meyers and Kendra Reed have officially committed to continue their academic and athletic careers at the University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) and the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, respectively. While their sports and journeys differ, their passion and commitment are a shared reflection of the Bomber spirit.
A lifelong dream became reality for Jack Meyers, who will be playing Division II baseball at the University of Minnesota, Duluth.”I chose UMD because of the baseball coaching staff, the location of the school, and the strength of their finance program,” Meyers said. “It’s the right fit for me in every way.”
Though he knew from a young age that he wanted to play college baseball, it wasn’t until his freshman and sophomore years that the dream began to take shape. Years of dedication, training, and game-time experience turned a childhood goal into a collegiate opportunity.
“The best thing about baseball is having a great time with your teammates while you all strive for the same goal,” Meyers said.
For Kendra Reed, the decision to commit to UW–River Falls began with academics — but it ended with a return to the track. “I actually committed to River Falls first for academics — it just felt like the best fit for me,” Reed said. “The campus, the programs, the overall atmosphere; everything just clicked.”
Initially unsure about continuing sports, Reed filled out a survey out of curiosity. Not long after, a connection with the track coach reignited the competitive spark. “I realized how much I missed being part of a team and pushing myself in that way,” she said. “I wasn’t ready to be done with track just yet.”
Track, Reed explained, offers a unique blend of individual focus and team unity. “You get to make personal goals and work to exceed your own personal best, yet you’re part of a group of people who are right beside you, urging you on and growing with you.”
One of the most memorable parts of the sport, she added, is the community it builds. “Track brings athletes from all over. You start as competitors, but you become friends, and that friendship makes the sport even more special.”
The entire Cannon Falls community is cheering them on as they take the next big step — one base at a time, one stride at a time.
