This week’s Athlete of the Week is senior Pirate football player Jaren Bailey. Jaren is a two-way player that plays on the offensive and defensive line. “Jaren is incredibly important to our line on both sides of the ball. He plays multiple positions for us and that speaks to his knowledge of the game and versatility,” said Pirate coach Nate Lubarski. “He is the ultimate team player and does whatever the team needs him to do. Jaren is a strong, physical player with good leadership skills and a great attitude.”
Jaren has had a fantastic season, and last week on Senior Night against Staples-Motley, he provided the biggest highlight of his career. Jaren jumped in front of a pass for an interception and raced 63 yards down the field for his first career varsity touchdown. “I guess I had some game speed on that play,” said Bailey. “I feel like I am pretty fast and I actually run one of the fastest 40-yard times on the team. We did a lot of work over the summer on agility and speed and I think it showed on that play.”
The offensive line typically doesn’t get much credit or recognition because they aren’t the ones with the stats everyone sees, however Bailey and the rest of the offensive line can easily be credited for a big chunk of the team’s success this season. The Crookston rushing attack has been getting better throughout the year and they average over 200 yards a game on the ground. The Pirates picked up a win last night in the opening round of the Section 8AA Tournament over Warroad 43-8, and once again Bailey and the rest of the offensive line helped lead the way up front allowing the team to score five rushing touchdowns in the game.
Away from football, Jaren is an outstanding student at the Crookston High School. He is also involved in Hockey as the starting goaltender, and shoots trap in the spring.
Crookston will meet Pelican Rapids in the Section 8AA semifinals on Saturday afternoon with a trip to the Section Championship on the line. “We got to make sure we take care of business on Saturday to give us a chance to win a Section Championship,” said Bailey. “Our line up front on both sides of the ball is extremely closeknit and we have grown a ton over the season. We have had our struggles at times this year but that’s helped us in the long run and we are excited to keep working up front and giving the team the best chance to win.” If Crookston is to have success on Saturday, there is a good chance Bailey, and the rest of the offensive and defensive line will be leading the way up front.
First started playing Football – 2nd Grade
What do you feel is the strongest part of your game – Blocking
Part of your game that needs work – Getting off blocks on defense
Favorite football field away from Crookston – EGF because of the turf
Do you have a pregame ritual – Just lock in and make sure I’m ready to play
Favorite sport – Hockey
Favorite sports team – Minnesota Wild
Favorite athlete – Marc-Andre Fleury
Last movie you’ve seen – Miracle
Favorite TV Show – Yellowstone
Favorite food – Sushi
What music are you listening to – Country
You’re stranded on a deserted island, and you can have ANY three people with you – Jake Erickson, Riley Helgeson, Clay Hanson
Plans after graduation – Attend Northland Community & Technical college in East Grand Forks and major in Ag-Business Management
Family –
Dad – Jason Bailey (Farmer)
Mom – Amber Bailey (works at UMC)
Sister – Ashlyn (9th grader)
