Parks commits to Golden Gophers as preferred walk-on

After breaking several records at Chisago Lakes High School, running back Josh Parks is stepping his game up to the highest level by committing to the University of Minnesota football team as a preferred walk on. A preferred walk-on means that Parks was high on the Gophers’ wish list, but they weren’t able to offer him a scholarship this year. Instead, Parks will ply his trade in what will most likely be a redshirt year. 

He’ll work on getting faster and stronger to better adapt to the athletes that he’ll compete against at the next level. Parks was a standout running back and defensive back for the Wildcats the past three years, this year, Parks rushed for 1,202 yards and 16 touchdowns on 126 carries, ripping off 9.5 yards per carry. Parks has made his mark since his sophomore year, and he holds the school record for rushing yards in a career with 2,809. He also is the record holder in points scored with 238. He also added 34 receptions for 473 yards and five touchdowns in his career.

“I can't say how excited I am to see Josh going to play for the the University of Minnesota,” CL’s football head coach Bill Weiss said. “Josh has meant a lot to Chisago Lakes football. He is an outstanding young man and was one of the best players to go through our program. His performance and his preparation on and off the field have put him in a position to succeed at the next level. “I think Josh has a great future because in addition to his on field talents, he's a really good student, he's respectful, and has tremendous work out habits. This is Coach Kill's kind of player.” The 5’10’, 195-pound runner led the Wildcats to two straight section final berths, and in his two years as an integral part of the team, the ‘Cats went 15-5.