By Eric Erickson
Sports analysis
The Thielen Foundation was formed to help serve, educate and inspire youth to achieve their full potential.
Founded by former Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Adam Thielen and his wife, Caitlin Thielen, the foundation began making a difference at Como Park High School in the summer of 2024 with the donation of a new weight room.
At the dedication ceremony, the Thielens announced a 10-year commitment of financial awards to selected student leaders at Como.
The first class of Thielen Leadership Award winners were announced at halftime of a recent home basketball game. Each recipient received a $1,000 check to support their future endeavors.
Students were nominated by their coaches, teachers and school staff to be recognized as athletes, positive role models and leaders on and off the playing field.
Here’s an introduction to the Como class of 2025 Thielen Leadership Award winners:
Ewan Johnson was a four-year contributor to the Cougar football team. He is also a thrower on the track and field team.
Football coach Kirby Scull said Ewan was willing and able to learn multiple positions and was extremely dedicated to team goals.
“This season Ewan was voted our TGID (Together Get It Done) player of the year,” Scull said. “The award is given to the player who puts team success ahead of their own individual success.”
Johnson plans to attend college in Minnesota next fall. He has three schools in mind and is leaning toward studying biology.
Oo Meh was a volleyball player throughout high school and a member of the badminton team. She also participates in clubs at Como and is an English language learner.
Volleyball coach Madison Critchley described Oo Meh as a strong leader for the program.
“She has made huge growth in her volleyball skills and is a wonderful role model to our younger players—helping them with volleyball, helping with homework, giving rides—anything to be a positive light for them,” Critchley said.
Oo Meh is currently considering four Minnesota schools. She will be a first-generation college student.
Braylon Felton has been a key member of the Cougars track and field team over the past few years and a reliable participant in the basketball program.
Academically, he has been involved with the TRIO Upward Bound program throughout high school, actively preparing for college.
Track coach Tim Kersey appreciates Braylon’s work ethic and positive attitude. “He’s a strong student and very nice person,” Kersey said. “He’s been a good sprinter and jumper and is always willing to try new events in order to help out the team.”
Felton has applied to both two-year and four-year colleges and has interests in entrepreneurship and film studies.
Ava Lopez served as the Como girls soccer team captain during her junior and senior seasons, leading the Cougars in goals and assists. She was a five-year varsity player who culminated her career by earning all-state honors.
Girls soccer coach Samaya Mohamed spoke highly of Ava’s work on student council and how she leads activities for younger students. “She sets an amazing example, creating a sense of community at Como by planning and executing fun events,” Mohamed said.
Lopez has committed to study forensic science and play soccer at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York City.
Royal Urman has been a top pitcher and hitter throughout his Como baseball career. He was elected a captain for his junior and senior seasons.
Baseball coach Ian Zangs notes that Royal has taken rigorous coursework while maintaining a strong grade point average.
“Royal exemplifies persistence, diligence and commitment both on and off the field,” Zangs said. “Whether Royal is pitching a complete game, sparking a rally with his bat or playing steady defense, he consistently performs in high-leverage situations.”
Urman has applied to some two-year and four-year schools and is considering the option of playing college baseball.
Genevieve DeGaetano has been a Como volleyball player for four years. She was a JV team captain in her early years before earning a varsity position. Her academic credentials include dozens of college credits and a stellar grade point average.
Beyond the court and classroom, Genevieve is a gifted musician, an actress who has been in several theater productions including leading roles and an active participant in many leadership programs within school.
DeGaetano is still choosing between two Minnesota schools and the University of Winnipeg. She is interested in chemistry, biology and bio anthropology.
The entire Como Park High School community is grateful for the generous spirit of the Thielen Foundation and the commitment it has made to help support students pursuing their full potential.
Eric Erickson is a social studies teacher at Como Park High School and a longtime coach of school and youth sports in St. Paul.
Photo cutline: Como’s inaugural class of Thielen Leadership Award winners. Each student athlete received a $1,000 financial award. Photo by Koua Yang.
