Raiders Pride: 5 Unforgettable Athletes From Hudson High School

Sports run deep in Hudson, and Hudson High School has long been at the heart of it. It’s no surprise some standout talent once wore the Raiders uniform. Today we're celebrating five unforgettable athletes from Hudson High School who made a name for themselves well beyond the hometown field.

1. Dale Weiler – Professional Soccer Player (Minnesota Thunder)

After his time at Hudson High School, Dale Weiler went on to play collegiate soccer at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, where he competed for the Panthers. He later played professionally with the Minnesota Thunder before transitioning into coaching and leadership roles within the sport. (Sources: Milwaukee Panthers, Sioux Falls City FC)

2. Jim Bertelsen – NFL Running Back (Los Angeles Rams)

Jim Bertelsen, a Raider from the Class of 1968, earned a reputation as one of the area’s most accomplished football players before continuing his career at the University of Wisconsin. He went on to play running back in the NFL with the Los Angeles Rams, becoming one of Hudson’s earliest athletes to reach professional football. (Source: Hudson Star Observer)

3. Julia Rodrigue – National Champion, Rowing

After competing at Hudson High School, Julia Rodrigue continued her rowing career at the University of St. Thomas, where she reached the national championship level. Her success at the collegiate level positioned her among the top rowers in the country and supported her pursuit of elite international competition. (Sources: NCSA College Recruiting, University of St. Thomas)

4. Davis Drewiske – NHL Defenseman (Los Angeles Kings, Montreal Canadiens)

Former Raider Davis Drewiske continued his hockey career at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he was a reliable defenseman for the Badgers before turning professional. He went on to play in the NHL with both the Los Angeles Kings and Montreal Canadiens, reaching hockey’s highest level and contributing as a steady presence on the blue line. (Sources: NHL, LA Kings Insider)

5. Shane Blinkman – U.S. Olympic Swim Trials Competitor

After swimming at Hudson High School, Shane Blinkman continued his career at Stanford University, where he developed into an elite collegiate swimmer and earned CSCAA Scholar All-American honors while scoring at the Pac-12 Championships. During his time at Stanford, he qualified for and competed in the U.S. Olympic Swim Trials, placing himself among the nation’s top swimmers in his events. His collegiate career also included multiple top-15 placements in Stanford’s record book. (Sources: NCSA College Recruiting, Stanford Cardinals, Hudson Star Observer)

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