Former Southwest Minnesota State University football player Derek Klinkner has recently received a new accolade to add to his already impressive resume; on March 19, it was announced that Klinkner would be receiving the “Courage Award” from the Minnesota Chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame.
“I feel honored to have been considered for this award, but receiving it is such a blessing,” said Klinkner.
According to the National Football Foundation’s website, “The Courage Award was created by ESPN The Magazine’s senior writer Gene Wojchiechowski. The requirements for nomination include displaying courage on or off the field, including overcoming an injury or physical handicap, preventing a disaster or living through hardship.”
On April 22, Klinkner will receive the award at the National Football Foundation Minnesota Chapter “Honoring Legends, Inspiring Leaders” event on the campus of the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul. Extraordinary individuals in both professional and amateur Minnesota football will be honored at the event.
A True Competitor
For two seasons, Klinkner played middle linebacker for SMSU before a farm accident in May 2012 left him unable to walk. Klinkner dislocated two major vertebrae in the accident, and was hospitalized for a month.
But Klinkner hasn’t let the accident slow him down. For the past two seasons, he has continued to be a key member of the SMSU football team, where he served as captain in 2011. Klinkner earned the “True Mustang Award,” which honors a student-athlete who represents SMSU football on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. He finished his career as a Mustang appearing in 22 games with 21 starts and racking up 139 tackles. Klinkner was named All-NSIC honorable mention in the South division after the 2009 season.
For the past two seasons, Klinkner has also been a member of the SMSU wheelchair basketball team.
A Solid Foundation
Following the accident, Derek set his sights on walking, a feat many would say could never happen. However, through intensive rehabilitation activities and a strong faith in God, Klinkner has learned to walk once again. In addition to his family and friends, Jesus has been one of his greatest motivators, says Klinkner.
“I put my trust in the Lord and give Him everything,” said Klinkner.
Klinkner has modeled his life after Proverbs 3:5,6 (a favorite verse of his), which says, ”Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.”
Throughout the challenges he has had to overcome, Klinker has remained level-headed and knows what his priorities are.
“My goals for this season are to graduate and become the best Christian I can be.”