March 27, 2026

HELENA, Mont. – The Frontier Conference announces Dickinson State (N.D.) University student-athlete, Caleb Sarsland, as the Men’s Cross Country recipient of the inaugural Grit Award, sponsored by the Montana Army National Guard.

The award recognizes one student-athlete per sport who embodies extraordinary perseverance, mental toughness, and integrity both on and off the field, aligning with the National Guard values of resilience, service, discipline, and teamwork.

Sarsland, a junior engineering major from Bowman, N.D., and a standout on the Blue Hawks men's cross country team, is honored for his remarkable comeback and relentless dedication.

Resilience and Mental Toughness in Competition

Sarsland demonstrated exceptional grit by overcoming chronic Achilles tendinitis that sidelined him for six weeks during the 2025 indoor and outdoor track & field seasons. Following a rigorous and unconventional training and therapeutic program starting July 4, 2025, Sarsland rebuilt his fitness from a very low base.
Despite the pain and frustration, he remained focused on his audacious goal: becoming an NAIA All-America Cross Country runner (a top 40 finish) after placing 103^rd the previous year.

His determination resulted in an extraordinary season, culminating in a 9^th place finish at the NAIA National Cross Country Championships, making him the top male runner from the Frontier Conference.  This 94-place improvement is a testament to his mental toughness, showcased by his composure during the high-pressure conference championship (where he placed 3^rd) and his final surge at nationals, moving from 13^th to 9^th in the last 60 yards of the race.

Leadership and Community Impact

Beyond his athletic achievements, Sarsland is a dedicated student mentor in the Dickinson State University Teddy Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program and maintains a perfect 4.0 grade point average in engineering.  He lives by a "service above self" motto, providing insights and positive modeling to his teammates, fostering a culture of optimism and commitment.
 
His commitment to service extends to the community, where he volunteers at an adult living home as part of his leadership program duties, caring for the elderly. His actions exemplify the Montana Army National Guard values, including:

• Resilience: Overcoming his career-threatening Achilles injury.
• Duty: Serving as a dedicated leader in his honors program and in the community.
• Integrity and Honor: Consistently standing firm on principles and always pursuing what is just and right.

Caleb Sarsland’s story is a profound example of a student-athlete blending academic excellence, elite athletic performance, and selfless community service, inspiring his teammates, coach, university, and family.

For more information about the Montana Army National Guard, please visit https://montanaguard.gov/.