Vikings Press Pass with Matthew Nicol

I sit back down with the Women's Basketball Head Coach at Augustana, Mark Beinborn. We reflect on the 2024-2025 season, the trip to Spain, and talk about the team as they are 6-games in to the season.

This week, I sit down with Augustana linebacker Carl Thomas to break down the Vikings’ big win over Carthage and his standout performance leading the team in tackles. We talk about what makes this linebacker group special, his journey from Quincy to Augie, and why the LB mindset fits him so well. Carl also shares insights on his academic path, his family’s influence, and we wrap with a look ahead to Saturday’s huge matchup against WashU with a bowl bid on the line. Tune in!

I sit down with TE Jake Miller ahead of the game vs Carthage. We connect on his 3 TD performance last Saturday, him playing in the McDonalds Baseball All-Star game, intramural basketball, and some great one-liners.... "If you want the rock you gotta block." "Never go broke from making a profit."

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois.

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois.On this episode, Junior Jimmy Zitkus joins me and we talk all things Center and offensive line related. We introduced questions from an 8-yr old, and we find out he takes a lot of pride in his roller skating abilities. A great conversation ahead of taking on #1 North Central Cardinals.

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois.On this episode, Junior WR Sean Schlanser joins me to talk about the Vikings 4-1 start, a potent passing offense, the WR room, building rapport with a new QB, and we get some insight knowledge to his personal weather man!

On this special episode of the Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by viral cousins Gio and Johnny, the duo behind “We Family Now.” We talk about how a random event led to a life-changing connection. They share what they’ve learned about each other and why this story proves family can be found anywhere.

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois.On this episode, Senior OL Ben Hartman joins me to talk about the Vikings’ 3-1 start and their latest win over North Park. Ben shares his journey through offseason surgery and rehab, his role helping coach the JV team to a 4-0 record, and his passion for History. We also get a behind the scenes look on his recent engagement!

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois. On this episode, senior RB Ben Ludlum joins me to talk about the Vikings’ ground game, learning from prior RBs Rivelli and Digioia, and stepping in to that lead role. We also chat about life off the field — from his summer internship at Rust-Oleum, fishing and cooking. A great conversation with one of the Vikings’ toughest runners!

Vikings Press Pass is your all-access podcast for Augustana College athletics! Join me as I sit down with standout student-athletes from this NCAA Division III program in Rock Island, Illinois. On this episode, QB Jimmy Makuh discusses stepping in as the Vikings’ starter, the win over Millikin, and why offensive success comes down to all 11 guys. He also shares insight into his transfer from Illinois State and gives us a little insight to pre-snap reads behind the eyes and mind of a hockey player turned QB!

On this episode, Senior OL Max Castle talks about his road back from surgery, moving from guard to tackle, and what it takes to anchor the line. We dive into his Europe trip, fishing and grilling hobbies, and his strong bond with the O-line and coaches.

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, Senior DE and Captain Nick Hogan joins me to break down the defensive effort in the Simpson game, and his return to full strength after last season’s knee issues. We also dive into leadership, his path as a Finance/Accounting major, and his summer internship with O’Shea Builders—yes, it includes a story of the "Outrageous Games" which includes a mechanical bull.Off the field, Nick gives advice for younger players and shares some insight into his faith and interest in reading. A great conversation with one of the anchors of the Vikings defense—tune in!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, Senior WR and two-time captain Breyden Smith joins me for his second appearance on the show. We break down the Simpson game, takeaways on offense, and his connection with transfer QB Jimmy Makuh. Breyden also shares advice for younger players, and gives us a look into life off the field—including his connection his younger brother. A fun conversation with one of the leaders of the Viking offense—don’t miss it!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Senior LB and Captain Dylan Burton ahead of the season opener at Simpson. We talk about his journey back from an ACL injury and how it feels to be back at game speed. Dylan also shares insights on leadership as a captain, his path as a Geography & GIS major, and his game day routines. Plus, we get into fall camp traditions (hint: Johnny Crawford I hear is a heck of a Karaoke singer), advice for younger players, and what keeps him motivated on and off the field. t’s a great conversation with one of the anchors of this defense—don’t miss it!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Senior Captain Toby Splitt as we get ready for the Vikings’ season opener at Simpson. We break down preparation for week one, the impact of new defensive coaches, and how the secondary is reloading. Toby also reflects on the Loras scrimmage, his expanded role as a captain, and what leadership looks like alongside fellow captains Breyden Smith, Nick Hogan, and Dylan Burton. We dive into his path as a History Education major, game day routines, and offers a piece of advice for underclassmen. It’s a great conversation to kick off the season—tune in!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I kick off Season 2 with Head Football Coach Steve Bell. Coach reflects on the team’s spring trip to Rome and what that unforgettable experience meant to the players. We also preview fall camp, upcoming scrimmages, and what first year players can expect. Coach Bell shares insight on key returners, transfers, this year’s captains, players to watch this fall, thoughts on D3 bowl games (including Isthmus), scheduling, and what it means to have his son Carter join the staff this year. It’s a packed episode to start the year—tune in! #GoVikings #CCIW #VikingsPressPass #d3fb #d3voices

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, we reconnect with Augie alum and current Kansas State Graduate Assistant Josh Wintroub. After pitching for the Wildcats last season, Josh has transitioned into a key analytics role on staff, using his background in data to help drive performance. We talk about his jump from Division III to Division I, the mindset shift, and how analytics play into player development and strategy. Josh also reflects on his time at Augustana as an All-American Pitcher, memories from the 2022 and 2023 seasons, and the competitions with former teammate Harry Boushele.

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, we catch up with Harrison Boushele, now pitching at the University of Houston. Harry reflects on his transition, from D3 to D1, bouncing back from injury, and his first year at Houston. We talk Augie memories including the 2022 and 2023 championship runs, bible study groups, playing baseball with his brother Hayden, his Colorado roots, and Rockies nostalgia. A great hour with an even better person. Tune in!

On this special Senior Edition of the Vikings Press Pass, all 6x Augustana Softball Seniors—Kennedy, Meghan, Anna, Ally, Hannah, and Rose—join the show to reflect on their incredible journey. From a 4-12 conference record as freshmen to back-to-back 26-win seasons and a #2 seed in the CCIW Tournament, this group has helped transform the program. We talk team chemistry, personal growth, favorite memories (including the Freshman Florida trip and Indiana World Tour mishap), and life after Augie. A must-listen for fans as this tight-knit class gets ready for one last postseason run.

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, freshman 1B Aubrey Gradin joins the show! We talk about her journey from Davenport West to Augustana, earning CCIW Hitter of the Week honors, and her hot bat heading into the conference tournament. Plus, we get into her love for Fleetwood Mac, favorite jersey combo, and more!

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, 5th-year senior 2B Alec McGinnis joins the show! ⚾ We talk about his decision to return for one more season, hitting for the cycle, becoming Augie’s all-time leader in assists, and his favorite memories. Plus: we find out he was a former hooper back in HS and he selects his starting x5 from the baseball team. More importantly, we get to hear about his advice for the next class of Vikings, and he takes a few moments and gives thanks to all those that have helped him along the way. A must-listen from an incredibly genuine teammate, leader, and person as Alec closes out a stellar career!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, Augie alum Chase Maifield (’23) checks in! 🚀 We talk about his coaching stop at Judson, playing D1 ball at Valpo, facing top-ranked teams, and his favorite Viking memories — including a story about raccoons! 🦝 Plus, Chase is officially kicking off spring training tomorrow with the New Jersey Jackals after a long drive out east! ⚾🔥 Must listen!

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, Freshman catcher Alaina Diaz joins me following a dominant doubleheader sweep over Wheaton. We dive into her reaction to being named to the NFCA Division III "Player of the Year" Watch List and what it’s like hitting in the heart of a Vikings offense ranked among the nation’s best. Alaina also talks about her connection with Coach Nelson, the influence of her parents as role models, and how she gives back by coaching young catchers. Plus, we get the story behind the “Queen of the Diamond” belt. A great conversation with one of the CCIW’s brightest young stars!

On Episode 50 of Vikings Press Pass, we celebrate this podcast's 50th Episode milestone with Freshman shortstop Alexis Duke from the Augustana Softball team. Alexis shares what it’s been like making an immediate impact in her first year, including a huge doubleheader performance vs. Wheaton and what it takes to be successful in the leadoff spot (leadoff stats: 11-21, .524 BA, .615 OBP, .857 SLG, 1 HR) We also talk about her path to Augie, why her role model is her older brother, and how her relationship with Coach Nelson solidified her coming to Augustana. From national rankings to team chemistry, it’s a great chat with one of the rising stars in the CCIW!

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by Junior 3B Emma Evans from the Augustana Softball team. We break down a jam-packed week on the diamond that included three doubleheaders and the start of conference play. Emma reflects on key moments from wins over Buena Vista and Millikin, the slugfest with Carthage, and how the team is holding strong at 13-3 overall.We also explore Emma’s journey from Farmington, Illinois, and how her ACL injury led her down the path of her double major in Kinesiology and Communication. She gives us a preview of her glove, dishes out her hottest "hot chocolate" take, and helps us cast the Augustana softball team as characters from Grey’s Anatomy—yes, seriously. It’s a fun, insightful conversation with one of the Vikings’ most genuine voices—don’t miss it!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by fifth-year Senior Alex Simon from the Baseball team. We dive into his decision to return for another season. Alex breaks down his versatility on the field—playing third base, catcher, first base, and DH—and shares his thoughts on the Vikings’ season so far, including their battles in close games. We also discuss the art of switch-hitting, how a childhood game really influenced him to become a switch-hitter. We talk about the lasting mark he leaves statistically at Augustana, but more importantly as a great teammate. Off the field, Alex talks about his work as a Geospatial Engineer , his plans after baseball to move to Florida, and we learn his middle name is Wrigley (Go Cubs Go!). A great conversation with a standout Viking—don’t miss it!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by Junior Emily Gad from the Augustana Softball team. We break down the team’s road-heavy schedule the past week between Tennessee and Florida (JV + Varsity), how that talent compares to the CCIW, and key takeaways from their early-season success. Plus, English Education, the impact and support from her parents, her path to Augustana, Lana Del Rey, and most importantly which teammates are the Ross, Joey, Rachel and Chandlers of the group (HINT: She's a big F.R.I.E.N.D.S. fan). Emily brings the energy on a fun one!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by senior Cameron Miller from the Augustana Baseball team. We discuss his pitching style and how he embraces the pressure of closing out games or pitching in high-stakes situations. Cameron also reflects on the team’s recent trip to the RussMatt Invitational in Florida, comparing the competition there to what they’ll face as they begin CCIW play at North Central tomorrow. Beyond baseball, we dive into his aspirations of becoming a Sheriff’s Deputy, his leadership approach, and his advice for the next generation of bullpen leaders. (insert: Bad Boys theme from Cops)

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by Junior Marley Behm from the Augustana Softball team. The Vikings are off to a dominant 6-0 start, and we dive into what’s been clicking for the team early on. Marley shares her thoughts on the home opener against Coe, the team’s chemistry, and what makes this season feel special. We also talk about her Colorado roots, the Avalanche winning the Stanley Cup, and a few of her favorite hometown spots: Magill's World of Ice Cream and Coyote Artisan Table. #LetsRide

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I’m joined by fifth-year senior Dymitri Kanellakis to break down the Vikings’ 6-4 start to the season, his transition from center to left field, and his motivation for returning for one final year. We dive into the team’s offensive firepower, the maturity of several standout freshmen, his growth as a player, playing at the U of Iowa, and how he prepares for game day. We wrap things up with the Mets, Mike Trout, Barry Bonds, and some words of wisdom for the underclassmen.

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, fifth-year senior Michael Aragon joins the show to talk about the team’s trip to Fort Myers for the Gene Cusic Classic, and this past weekend's Augustana Invitational. Michael shares insights on McGraw and Fischer's performance Saturday against Buena Vista; we discuss different field surface types, pitching/catching in various types of weather, how electronics are a part of their in-game strategy, and what it means to climb the Vikings’ all-time putouts list. Plus, we dive into his favorite baseball memories and his advice for younger players.

Fifth-year senior Addison Southwick joins me on the Vikings Press Pass to discuss his decision to return for another season and what motivates him on the mound. We break down the Vikings' start to the season, the pitching rotation, and some fresh names to watch. Addison reflects on his record-setting 2022 season, and the excitement of upcoming trips to Fort Myers and Iowa City (vs the Hawkeyes), where he’ll face some familiar faces from his Northwoods League days.Plus, we talk about playing in historic Terry Park, working at the Arsenal, favorite baseball memories, and, of course, the best food spots back home in Colorado. Want to know what actor he chose to play him in a move? Then tune in for a great conversation with one of Augustana’s most experienced arms!

Junior pitcher Lauren Koster joins me on the Vikings Press Pass to talk about the Vikings' 4-0 start. She shares insights on the team’s evolving culture, impact players, personal and team goals, the process of stepping in to a leadership role, and the moment she believes the team truly began buying in to the coaching staff's vision. We also dive into her pitching style, what she’s learned from former standout teammate Nadia Ranieri and current pitching coach Dan Fisher, and she walks through the choices she made the past two years for her custom gloves. Plus, we talk about her biggest influence—her dad—and wrap things up with some Full House trivia! Don’t miss this fun conversation with one of Augustana Softball’s many key players!

Senior Nicolas Giliberto joins me on the Vikings Press Pass fresh off a huge Senior Night win over #11 Illinois Wesleyan. We discuss the electric atmosphere, the impact of the home crowd, and what securing a CCIW quarterfinals game at home means for the Vikings. Nic also shares his thoughts on receiving the CCIW RESPECT Award, his role in the team’s recent success, and his journey from Arizona to Augustana. Plus, we dive into his favorite memories—like traveling to Greece with the team—his coaching aspirations, what’s next after graduation, and even mix in a little Star Wars talk. Tune in for a great (and late) conversation with a true team-first player!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, Head Softball Coach John Nelson joins me to talk about the team’s red-hot 4-0 start—their best since 2015. We break down the opening weekend at the Blue Angle Invite, including a statement win over #23 UW-Stevens Point. Coach Nelson also shares insight to his 2nd year at the helm, the1st year hurdles of taking on a new team, the coaching staff, the culture shift, and what to expect from this year’s squad. Plus, we discuss many key players, scheduling, and how he balances coaching both at Augustana and with Heartland Havoc. A great Sunday conversation!

On this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Assistant Coach Eric Rowell to talk about his long-standing connection to Augustana basketball, spanning 14 seasons across both the men’s and women’s programs. He shares how Augustana continues to position itself as a top-tier place of academic excellence and it's ability to attract students globally. We dive into this year’s team, highlight our Senior Class (Emma Berg and Ashley Lang), and what’s at stake heading into Saturday’s showdown at home against #4 Illinois Wesleyan. Plus, we take a trip down memory lane to revisit the 1993 National Championship run and discuss some of the greatest players to come through the program. Don’t miss this conversation with a tremendous person who I've had the pleasure of knowing for the past 23+ years as the Vikings host a huge Senior Day doubleheader on Saturday!

In this episode of Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Associate Head Coach Justin Hauer as the Vikings gear up for their season opener at the Rhodes Classic in Memphis. We discuss the challenges of preseason preparation in winter conditions, the impact of returning x7 5Yrs and x7 Seniors on the roster and the expectation that others can and will step up to play critical roles throughout the season. Coach Hauer also shares insights on how the University of Iowa matchup came about, and some fun team traditions—including the search for a new "YMCA" hype man as Joe Morgano has since graduated and who has the best walk-up song. Plus, we set some over/under predictions for hit-by-pitches and strikeout-to-walk ratios. Tune in for a great conversation as Vikings baseball gets ready to roll!

In this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Senior wrestler Jacob Badger, currently regionally ranked at 197 lbs, to talk about his season, mindset, and preparation for the upcoming conference championships this weekend. We talked about the Pete Willson Invitational and how he stays mentally strong after tough matches. Jacob also shares insights on his wrestling style, pre-match routines, and gave a ton of great advice for young wrestlers. Beyond the mat, we dive into his journey from Littleton (Colorado) to Augustana, his love for the outdoors, plans for after college, and his academic path as a Biology and Spanish major which led him to an eye-opening internship in Costa Rica in the Summer of 2023. Tune in for a great conversation with one of Augustana’s top wrestlers!

In this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, I catch up with Anthony Cooper from the Men’s Basketball team to talk about the Vikings’ third straight win over Millikin, what’s been driving their recent success, and the push to host a conference tournament game.We also discuss Anthony’s role on the team as a shooter, his journey to Augustana, and his plans after graduation. Plus, a little Super Bowl talk to wrap things up. Don’t miss it!

In this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Kade Ariano, student manager for the Men’s Basketball team. We talk about his journey to the role, his daily responsibilities, and balancing academics and athletics. Kade shares memorable moments with the team, insights from his internship with the Quad Cities River Bandits MiLB this past summer, his passion for kinesiology and physical therapy, and how his drive for excellence is really modeled after his older brother who is currently at Duke. Coach Delp had high praise for Kade—and after this conversation, it’s easy to see why. Tune in!

On this episode of the Vikings Press Pass, I chat with Augustana Wrestling Senior Jack Patting about his season, recent tournament performances, and preparation for the CCIW Championships. He shares insights on training, advice for youth wrestlers and transitioning from his youth days at Young Guns WC to a standout high school career at Rock Island Alleman HS to his college career. Beyond the mat, we talk a bit about his passion as a history education major, his future career in teaching, YouTube History being one of this favorite things to watch, and some memorable moments along the way.

In Episode 32, I spend some time with Junior Guard, Carly Stone of the Women's Basketball team. She shared how wanting to be closer to extended family in the Midwest and the Kinesiology Program drew her to Augustana.I got all the insights to the best places in the Portland area, found out she is a bit of a sneakerhead, enjoys Fleetwood Mac, and her first sport she loved was actually soccer!

In Episode 31 of the Vikings Press Pass, I connect with Senior Guard, Colton Gillingham. We covered the season, yesterday's win vs North Central, increased consistencies in the program, and how personnel rotations are a strength of the team.We discussed his business simulation J-term class, and he also shared some insight growing up in Greeley, CO, his love for the Denver Nuggets and how an invite only tournament landed him at Augustana. Maybe a little unknown secret, he can play the piano!

In Episode 30 of the Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Senior big man, Mike Hamilton as we discuss yesterdays big overtime win at home vs North Central.We talked about the Vikings season, looked ahead to the 5 remaining games, and he shared some great insight to how Coach Delp is positioning this program to look and feel like a D1 program. We even discussed his recently found interest in cooking! You won't want to miss a Sunday conversation with one of the Vikings' perennial big men!

In Episode 29 of the Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Senior and 3-sport athlete, Bill Unyi from the eSports team to discuss his journey in competitive gaming, specifically Super Smash Bros. We dove DEEP in to SSB and talked about characters (Lucina is a favorite), stages, gameplay, strategy, and combos! One of his most memorable eSports moments was beating a Top100 ranked player.Outside of eSports, Bill (a x4-time Deans List student) talked about his Computer Science major and how anime sparked an interest in going for his Asian Studies & Japanese minor.This interview was a "Down Tilt Attack" good time!

In Episode 28 of the Vikings Press Pass, Senior and CCIW Women’s Wrestler of the Week, Sawyer Graham, joins me to discuss her incredible upset victory over No. 2-ranked Sabrina Nauss of Grand Valley State and her preparation for the upcoming CCIW Championships, her journey to the sport after seeing her brother's success, and how she landed at Augustana from Maryland.We talk about her interest in Environmental Studies & Biology—including her internship at Hallstedt Homestead Cherry Farm in Michigan and growing up around gardens, orchards and bee hives!

In Episode 27 of Vikings Press Pass, Senior Sandie Pfeil from Augustana’s Women’s Wrestling team joins me to discuss the team’s recent duals against top-ranked #4 Grand Valley State and #1 Iowa, competing at a high level, and inspiring young athletes in the stands. She also shares insights on preparing for the upcoming CCIW Conference Championships and the excitement surrounding the first NCAA Women’s Wrestling Championship set for 2026.Sandie reflects on her transition from folkstyle to freestyle wrestling, her most memorable career moments, and what led her to Augustana and a Kinesiology major. She also talks about her experience as Vice President of Delta Chi Theta sorority and her new role as a Rehabilitation Technician at Unity Point. Tune in for a great conversation on and off the mat!

In Episode 25 of Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Senior and x3 National Champ Runner-Up, John Bolton from the eSports team to discuss his journey in competitive gaming, specifically NBA2K. John shares how he discovered the newly established eSports program at Augustana, his approach to balancing academics with gaming and playing football, and what it’s been like helping build the program’s foundation. We discuss game play, strategy, and how the eSports framework runs through the ECAC and NECC. We also talk about how his Finance and Business double-major will land him in PGA Operations. Catch the full conversation, it's a slam dunk.....see what I did there?!

In Episode 26 of the Vikings Press Pass, I connect with Freshman Audrey Erickson from the Women’s Basketball team to discuss her transition from high school to college, both on and off the court. Audrey, a standout from Alleman High School with over 1,000+ career points, shares insights into her basketball journey, the challenges of balancing academics and athletics, and what it’s been like playing at the collegiate level. We also dive into her experience playing in local showcase events like the Iowa-Illinois Senior All-Star Classic and her thoughts on the current season with the Vikings. Beyond basketball, Audrey talks about her mother's influence growing up. We also touch on the team’s focus for the remainder of the season and what she has learned from the upperclassmen. Catch the full conversation to learn more about Audrey’s journey and her impact on the Vikings program.

In Episode 25 of Vikings Press Pass, I sit down with Senior and x3 National Champ Runner-Up, John Bolton from the eSports team to discuss his journey in competitive gaming, specifically NBA2K.John shares how he discovered the newly established eSports program at Augustana, his approach to balancing academics with gaming and playing football, and what it’s been like helping build the program’s foundation. We discuss game play, strategy, and how the eSports framework runs through the ECAC and NECC. We also talk about how his Finance and Business double-major will land him in PGA Operations. Catch the full conversation, it's a slam dunk.....see what I did there?!