5 Super Athletes With Ties To Lakeville

Sports have a way of teaching invaluable life lessons — building character, fostering teamwork and strengthening the bonds within a community. In the Lakeville 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. Lindsay Whalen (Basketball)

Lindsay Whalen is one of the most celebrated female basketball players in the Minneapolis metro. Born in Hutchinson, Whalen starred at the University of Minnesota before embarking on a highly successful career in the WNBA with the Connecticut Sun and the Minnesota Lynx. She helped lead the Lynx to four WNBA championships and was named an All-Star multiple times. Whalen has become a prominent figure in Minnesota sports, both for her success on the court and as the head coach of the University of Minnesota women’s basketball team, and has evem made appearances at Lakeville basketball games.

2. Mitch Leidner (Football)

Mitch Leidner is a former quarterback who made his mark in college football at the University of Minnesota before pursuing a career in the NFL. He gained national attention for his leadership on the field and his performance with the Golden Gophers, where he set several records as a dual-threat quarterback. Leidner’s dream came full circle when he played in a preseason game for his hometown team, the Minnesota Vikings, marking a significant milestone in his football career. Hailing from Lakeville, Leidner’s connection to his community is deep, and his journey has inspired many young athletes in the area.

3. Regan Smith (Swimming)

Regan Smith is a celebrated swimmer who has set multiple world records and won two gold medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Known for her strength in backstroke events, Smith continues to be a dominant force in competitive swimming. Originally from Lakeville, she honed her skills at the Foss Swim School, a well-known local training ground. Regan’s connection to Lakeville remains strong as she continues to inspire young swimmers in her hometown and beyond.

4. Brady Skjei (Hockey)

Brady Skjei, a professional hockey player who has made a significant impact in the NHL, is known for his strong defensive play and offensive contributions. The Lakeville native first made his mark at Lakeville North High School, where he played two seasons. After joining the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers, Skjei was drafted by the New York Rangers, where he developed into a key player. In 2023, he signed a seven-year, $49 million contract with the Nashville Predators, further solidifying his place in the league and the world of hockey.

5. Tyler Wahl (Basketball)

Tyler Wahl, a proud native of Lakeville, is a standout basketball player known for his time with the University of Wisconsin Badgers, where he earned recognition for his skills as a forward and his leadership on the court. Wahl's impressive college career has been marked by consistent performances in the Big Ten Conference. Wahl’s journey from local high school basketball star to collegiate powerhouse serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes in his hometown and beyond.

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