Alexander and Parrish Earn NSAA Honors in First Waldorf Game

By Zach Throne

As a result of their performances in the Waldorf football 50-40 win over Mayville State, QB Taylen Alexander and LB Wayne Parrish earned Dacotah Bank/North Star Athletic Association Offensive and Defensive Player of the Week, respectively.

Both Alexander and Parrish are transfers into the Waldorf program, so Saturday, Sept. 12 was their debut in a Warrior uniform.

“I knew these two were talented players coming into the season,” says Parrish’s cousin and Waldorf wide receiver Sam Huntley. “They both came out and balled out in their first game with us.”

Alexander threw for five touchdowns and 278 yards on 22-of-33 passing. He showed his teammates and fans what he can do as the QB for the Warriors.

Alexander connected with all-American receiver Ryan Martinez twice in the first quarter, and then with tight end Chase Hansen twice in the second half. Alexander also threw a touchdown pass to running back Taye Buchannon.

Parrish had quite the game, as well, with eight tackles, a sack and a crucial pick-six to seal the win for Waldorf. The touchdown return went for 28 yards after cornerback James Jackson tipped the ball in the air.

“I have to give a lot of credit to (Jackson) on that play,” said Parrish, “because he was able to bat the ball in the air, and it fell right to me.”

After that, Parrish put to use his skills he used when he played receiver in high school.

“I feel like my instincts took over and I was able to make a couple guys miss to get to the end zone,” Parrish said.

His touchdown made the game 48-33, and the ensuing two-point conversion resulted in a three-possession lead of 50-33, practically sealing the win for Waldorf.

The Warriors (1-1) are at home this week after a gut-wrenching loss at Valley City State (2-0) last weekend. They play Presentation this Saturday at 1:00 p.m.