Dragon Stories Continue: “Moorhead State gave me a life”
From generation to generation, Dragons continue spreading the pride and values held dear at MSUM, often sharing them on the field.
In Keith Barnier’s ’87 (physical education) 29-year coaching career, 13 of those were spent leading MSUM track and field, the successes reminiscent of his time as a student-athlete under the direction of retired MSUM coach, Ron Masanz.
“He wasn’t a cozy coach, but he was fair and had high standards,” Barnier said. “There were no politics. You just tried to make the team because it was so good.”
When Barnier’s father died his freshman year, Coach Masanz became much more than a coach. He became a role model during one of the most difficult times in Barnier’s life.
“He was kind of everything to me. I listened harder. All the friends I made there are still my best friends today. Then I ended up working there,” Barnier said. “Moorhead State gave me a life––a career and a life.”
Thirty years after Barnier joined the team, Laquone Robinson ’13 (exercise science) knew MSUM was the right school for him as soon as he stepped onto campus as a student.
With direction from his track and field coach, Keith Barnier, Robinson followed in the footsteps of his predecessors and learned the lessons he needed to teach the Dragons who now follow him in his role as an assistant track and field coach for Dragon Athletics.
“When I was a freshman, it was all about me, but Coach Barnier and Coach Masanz––when he visited––taught me it was more about the team and what the team can do,” Robinson said. “I have Dragon Pride because it’s in me. I don’t know how to explain it. Being on a team sport made us a family. My wife graduated from here, too. I think it’s just going to be in our blood forever, and I love coaching here.”
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