COPENHAGEN, Denmark - Former UW-Stout offensive lineman Dustin Tervelt has signed a professional contract with the Copenhagen Towers in Denmark. Following is the press release from the Copenhagen Towers website by Jens Knudsen.
Dustin Tervelt is packing his bags after five years at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. On Wednesday, March 5 he arrived from Chicago in time to join the Towers for the first mini-camp of the season and remain here until after Mermaid Bowl XXI in October.
When asked why he wanted to play football in Denmark, Tervelt explained: 'I love the game of football and the chance to meet new people in a totally new environment is an experience I am excited to take'.
"I want to play football with the Towers mainly because of Coach Munch," Tervelt said. "He has answered all of my questions and been straight forward with me the whole time.
Blue Devils head coach Duey Naatz has nothing but praise for Tervelt. Naatz describes Tervelt as 'very athletic for a big man' and adds 'Dustin plays with a high amount of emotion and intensity. He knows the game very well and understands the importance of fundamentals'.
An Illinois native, Tervelt moved to Wisconsin prior to the 7th grade and began his football career that year. In high school Tervelt played some offensive line, but even more on the defensive line. He went on to be voted all-conference, all-county and all-northwest honorable mention in high school, before enrolling in college in 2003.
In 42 games as a Blue Devil, Tervelt has played every position on the offensive line. The university runs a multi-pro offense in which Tervelt primarily played pulling guard, utilizing his speed and strength. Tervelt has recorded 21 reps in 100 kg bench press as well as a 4.90 40-yard dash. He is 195 cm tall and weighs 133 kg.
Towers head coach Anders Munch is looking forward to having Tervelt with the team this year: 'Dustin brings four seasons as a starter to the Towers. He has also been a captain, which we see as a huge asset, since Dustin will be both a leader and a coach for our team'.
Several Towers players have already been in touch with Tervelt via mail and phone. 'They have all made me feel extremely welcome', Tervelt said.
Over the years the Towers have focused on developing the offensive line when bringing in import players. Tervelt will follow in the footsteps of former Towers such as George Haines (2001), Stephen Jobin (2003) and Thomas Yarbrough (2008).
The latter spent a very successful season with the Towers, but decided to retire from football after the season. He is now pursuing a career in coaching.
Tervelt was showered by awards after his senior season with the Blue Devils. He was named an (honorable mention) All-American by D3 Football after the 2008 season as well as first team all-conference in the Division III WIAC and second team all-west region. Tervelt was also named a team captain for his senior year. / story by Jens Knudsen of the Copenhagen Towers
