Disa Salander placed second at state in the discus in both 1991 and 1992. In 1993 she placed second at state in the shot put while placing first at state in the discus. Disa then placed first in both the discus and shot put at state during her senior year of 1994. Disa still holds the school record in the discus with a throw of 170’2”. She was the first female to ever throw 170 feet in the state, and had the 2nd best discus thrower in the nation that season. During her track career at GFC she scored a total of 801 points and was voted a High School Track and Field All-American in 1993 and 1994. She was a regional and state Gatorade athlete of the year in 1994. Disa also competed in basketball during both the 1992 and 1993 seasons. Disa was awarded a Track and Field Scholarship and competed at Kentucky.
When asked to tell us the most important thing you learned in high school that has helped her in her life today she said that GFC gave her the tools to set high goals and the skills to plan, strategize and work at achieving those goals. Learning these skills, she was able to see the country, compete against Olympians, and return to ND determined to be a teacher and coach. She came equipped with a work ethic and the heart it takes to give back to the student athlete what was so generously given to her.
Disa said that the best advice she could give to students who attend GFC today would be to Get Involved!! “You won’t regret it. Being involved gives you a chance to make connections with people, make a difference and become a stronger, well-rounded, more dynamic individual. This will benefit you in ways you don't see yet. No matter where you are, what you do, or, how much money you make you will always find being a part of a team is your greatest asset.”
Disa currently teaches elementary physical education and coaches in the Minot, ND Public School District. She has a 13-year-old daughter, Hailee, who is involved in basketball, volleyball, track, softball, and orchestra.