A little about Caden

Caden Schulte (19) of Sioux City, IA knew that he was destined to end up as a Mustang one day. His older sister previously attended Morningside University, and this was one of the reasons that Caden decided on Morningside.  That was not the only reason though, Caden committed to be a member of the football team.  He stated, “I remember walking around campus when I was younger and attending countless football games”.  After watching many games and cheering on the football team, it struck a big dream for a little kid.  “I grew up watching Morningside [football play] and it was the main reason that I wanted to come here” Caden said.  Caden has been playing tackle football since third grade.  He is currently a long snapper.   

Not only does Caden have a love for football, but he also has a love for music.  Some of his favorite music include classic rock, more specifically the Eagles.  One day Caden hopes to use his double major in mass communications and business administration to operate a radio station as a manager.

One interesting thing about Caden is that he does not have a big toe on his right foot.  He previously lost his big toe in a mowing accident.  Although he is missing a toe, he does not let that slow him down.  Caden stated “I can’t really balance on my right foot but I am still able to run the same and everything”.

Who is Carlie Benes?

Hello, my name is Carlie Benes. At first glance, you might think that my last name is pronounced “Bens” or “Benis” or maybe even “Beans”. Sorry to disappoint, it is actually pronounced “Ben-ish”. I always love when people try to pronounce my last name because they almost never get it right.

I am from by a small town in Nebraska called Valparaiso. I have grown up on a farm my whole life, where we raise cattle, pigs, chickens, cats, a donkey and a dog. Along with the chaotic farm life, I also have two siblings – an older sister and a younger brother. Other than annoying my siblings or work on the farm in my free time, I also do photography. Photography has been a passion of mine ever since I was little.

From a young age not only did I have a passion for photography, but I also had a undying love for softball. I always knew I wanted to play softball at the collegiate level. College softball has been a little different for me, compared to most people. With having little exposure in high school I deiced to go the JUCO route. After falling in love with Iowa Western Community College, I was certain that was the place I wanted to spend my first two years of college. I went on to start for two years in the outfield and had a successful career at the junior college level. After Iowa Western, I knew I was not ready to hang up the cleats yet. So I transferred to a four year university. Last year, I attended University of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois. Unfortunately, I did not end up loving it there or even really liking it at all. So what did I do? I transferred again! This time to Morningside University.

Although I have only been on campus for not even a week yet, I know this is exactly where I am supposed to be. I could not be more excited to be a Mustang this year!

-Carlie