5 Super Athletes With Ties To Apple Valley-Rosemount

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Apple Valley-Rosemount area, these values have shaped some truly remarkable athletes from different eras, whose accomplishments continue to inspire.

Patch has teamed up with T-Mobile to spotlight five standout athletes whose achievements have left a lasting mark on our community. While this list is just a snapshot, there are countless others who have helped shape the rich sports culture in our area.

1. Heather Kampf (Track and Field)

Heather Kampf, née Dorniden, hails from Rosemount. A middle-distance runner specializing in the 800 meters, she gained national attention during her collegiate career at the University of Minnesota. Kampf is a four-time United States National Champion in the 1-mile road race and has represented the U.S. in various international competitions. Her resilience and achievements have made her a celebrated athlete in her hometown.

2. Tre Jones (Basketball)

Tre Jones, a basketball talent from Apple Valley, played college basketball for the Duke Blue Devils, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Tyus Jones. Known for his defensive prowess and leadership on the court, Tre declared for the NBA Draft and has been contributing to his team's success in the league. His rise from Apple Valley High School to professional basketball underscores the town's rich basketball heritage.

3. Payton Otterdahl (Track and Field)

Payton Otterdahl, born in Rosemount, is a distinguished shot putter who has represented the United States on the international stage. A graduate of Rosemount High School, he went on to compete for North Dakota State University, where he achieved significant milestones, including sweeping the NCAA titles in indoor throwing events. Otterdahl qualified for the 2024 Olympics in Paris, marking a significant achievement in his athletic career.

4. Trey Pipkins III (Football)

Trey Pipkins III, originating from Apple Valley, has made his mark in the NFL as an offensive lineman. After a standout high school career at Apple Valley High School, he played college football at the University of Sioux Falls. Pipkins was drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2019 and has since become a key player on their offensive line, demonstrating significant development and commitment to his team.

5. Shani Marks (Track and Field)

Shani Marks, hailing from Apple Valley, Minnesota, is a distinguished track and field athlete specializing in the triple jump. She clinched the Minnesota State High School League Class 2A long jump title in 1997 with a leap of 18-4 ¼ and contributed to three relay team victories in the same meet. Marks' athletic prowess led her to represent the United States in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, marking a significant milestone in her career. Her journey from Apple Valley High School to the global stage has been a source of inspiration for many in her hometown.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.