Northwestern College Vice President for Athletics Dr. Micah Parker and Director of Athletic Performance Kyle Ochsner have announced the hiring of Maria Fruechte as the assistant athletic performance coach. 

Fruechte joins the NWC Athletic Performance staff after serving in the same role at Winona State University (Minn.) for two years. She has also worked as an intern for the University of Wisconsin - Madison strength and conditioning staff and Mayo Health Systems.

"The Raiders just got better," comments Dr. Parker. "Maria is another example of our efforts to keep improving. Raiders Stand Out!"

Fruechte is a 2018 graduate of Winona State, where she earned a degree in exercise science and nutrition. She received a master's degree in education leadership / sport management from Winona State in 2020. Fruechte was a standout volleyball player for the Warriors and is a six-time Junior National Weightlifting Champion. 

"This position is crucial for the continued success and positive trajectory of Raider athletics and the NWC Performance academic program," states Ochsner. "Maria has a passion for not only engaging in the physical development of our student-athletes, but also fostering their spiritual growth which aligns well with the mission and vision of Northwestern.  I am excited for the unique set of characteristics and traits Maria will bring to make a lasting impact on our program, and I am extremely pleased that she will be joining our Raider family."

She will work with Raider athletes in the sports of football, women's / men's soccer, wrestling, women's / men's cross country and women's / men's tennis.