Brett Hanson

By Jake Grovum
UWRF Sports Information

Entering his fourth year with the Falcons, Brett Hanson looks to put the injuries he has experienced in the past behind him. Since his first year as a Falcon, Hanson has been plagued by injuries but has still managed to have an impact on the team whenever possible.

Hanson's first season was cut short by an injury, allowing him to only participate in half the season, but Hanson still managed to earn a letter and was named to the WIAC Scholastic Honor Roll. The following season went well for Hanson as he played in six games and earned his second letter.  

However, Hanson's 2005 season was ended before it began by an early season ACL tear and he was given a medical red shirt. The beginning of the 2006 season appeared to be more of the same as Hanson missed the first five games of the season as he continued to experience problems with his knee. However, since his return against Stevens Point, and his debut at his new position of tight end, Hanson has appeared to be adjusting well and staying injury free as he has two receptions in as many games played so far this year.

"He's a great young guy who has worked though multiple injuries and obviously loves the game," said Falcon Coach John O'Grady. "We had some injuries at tight end and when you move a defensive lineman to tight end it diminishes the risk of knee injury."

Hanson has caught two passes for 18 yards at his new postition. "So far he's doing great, he's still limited by the knee a little bit and wears a brace. Our top two tight ends are out with injuries so I'm glad we have him there."

Raised in La Crosse, Wis., Hanson attended Central High School where he played football, baseball, and participated in downhill skiing. Athletic success was nothing out of the ordinary for Hanson in high school where he garnished his football team's Hustle Award as well as the Scout Player of the Year award. Hanson also was named to the second all-conference team in high school.

Aside from being a three sport athlete in high school Hanson always cherished the time he spent with his family around Thanksgiving and deer hunting season. "With sports going on all the time, it was really time we could spend together," Hanson explained.   Family meant more than just hunting and gatherings to Hanson.  

Aside from his interest in conservation, the fact that Hanson's father Earlyn also played football at UWRF was a factor in his decision to become a Falcon.  

Hanson hopes to pursue a career as a timber buyer after he graduates from UWRF. For those not familiar with the timber buying business, Hanson explained that a timber buyer is someone who works for a lumber company and goes out to buy standing trees from people. Hanson said that it was an internship over the past summer that made him decide to pursue a future in timber buying.