Northwood-Kensett senior TJ Whitelow runs away from a would-be tackler in the Vikings' first game of the season in September. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

Albert Lea junior Tucker Eriksmoen celebrates after a big win to advance him to the sectoin finals at 126 pounds in February. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

The Bayside ski team opened its season to a beach full of specatators in June. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

Mickey Nelson releases the virtual first pitch from the mound at Hayek Field for a Twins game in September. Nelson became a local celebrity over the summer, pledging to walk 100 miles for his 100th birthday in an effort to raise COVID-19 funding for the Salvation Army. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

Albert Lea's Sam Skarstad puts the moves on a defender during a basketball game in January. Skartad would go on to score her 1,000th career point later in the season. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

Albert Lea's Chay Guen muscles his way to the basket in February. Guen was a major driving force in the success of the boys' basketball team this season. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune

Lake Mills sophomore Leah Moen fires in a pitch in the Bulldogs' first game of the season. - Tyler Julson/Albert Lea Tribune