Verndale's Mike Mahlen has joined the Mayville (N.D.) State Athletic Coaches Hall of Fame.
Mahlen, who started his tenure as head football coach at Verndale in 1969, had amassed a 327-102-3 record on the gridiron. The Pirates have won two state championships, three state runner-up finishes, 14 section titles and 19 conference crowns under Mahlen.
Mahlen is tied with Brainerd's Ron Stolski for the most wins by an Minnesota high school football coach. His coaching credits also include conference coach of the year 17 times, section coach of the year 14 times, state nine-man coach three times and the overall coach of the year.
Mahlen retired from teaching in 2004 but has continued to serve as Verndale's head football coach and athletic director.
