Former Highwood Mustangs star football player Troy Kowal just wrapped up his freshmen year at Minot State University in North Dakota.

The Hulking offensive lineman, who clocks in at 6'6" and 295 pounds, says he didn't see much playing time, but was still a big part of the team.

"I was a red shirt. I didn't go to the first game, and then I dressed for game two as a back-up and I dressed for 10 of the 11 games through the year, went on the road with the guys and had a really good learning experience."

Photo courtesy Minot State University.

Kowal, says the transition to four-down football's been a challenge.

"It was tough. Not having the yard off the ball is really hard to get used to. They're coming at you a little quicker. Everyone's a little faster down there and there's not as much room to operate."

Kowal says he expects to start as a Sophomore next season as he works towards a degree in broadcasting.

Kowal (55) in his playing days with the Highwood Mustangs.