CLC names Brett Vesel head football coach 

Central Lakes College Athletics has announced the hiring of Brett Vesel as the new Head Football Coach for the CLC Raiders. Vesel brings nearly four decades of coaching experience to the program, including 40 years in football coaching and 30 years as a head coach, and is known for successfully rebuilding and elevating programs at multiple levels. 

“This is a tremendous opportunity, and I am extremely excited to take over the Raider football program,” Vesel said. “I was born and raised in Minnesota and am a graduate of Vermilion Community College. My goal is to elevate this program to a high level of excellence, and I am eager to build a competitive presence in the MCAC and develop a program that represents our community with pride.” 

Vesel will begin his first season at the helm of the Raiders this fall. Throughout his career, he has earned a reputation for transforming struggling programs into competitive teams while cultivating strong team culture and accountability. 

A Duluth native, Vesel began his collegiate playing career at Vermilion Community College, where he played fullback for Vermilion Hall of Fame coach Rudy Semeja. Vesel earned Region XIII honors during his two seasons with the Ironmen before continuing his playing career at the University of Wisconsin–Superior. Playing under legendary coach Gil Krueger, Vesel transitioned from fullback to offensive guard and earned all‑conference honorable mention recognition with the Yellowjackets. 

As a high school head football coach, Vesel achieved historic success at multiple programs. He led the Carlton Bulldogs (Carlton, Minn.) to the only State Tournament appearance in school history. At La Crosse Logan High School (La Crosse, Wis.), Vesel guided the Rangers to the best finish in program history, reaching the State Quarterfinals, a milestone that was not matched for 12 years after his departure. He later led the La Crescent Lancers (La Crescent, Minn.) to their most successful stretch ever, posting a 9–2 record and advancing to two Section Championship games. 

“We are excited to welcome Coach Brett Vesel as the next head football coach at Central Lakes College,” said Krystal Brodeen, Director of Athletics. “Throughout this process, it was important for us to identify a leader who prioritizes accountability, strong character, and the overall development of our student‑athletes. Brett has a proven commitment to mentoring young men and fostering a positive and competitive team culture. His approach to player development aligns with our department’s values, and we are confident he will have a meaningful and lasting impact on our football program and campus community.” 

Vesel’s coaching resume extends well beyond football. He has served as a Head Wrestling Coach, Head Boys & Girls Track Coach, Head Girls Basketball Coach, Head Girls Hockey Coach, and Head Girls Flag Football Coach, while also working with numerous youth athletic programs throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. 

Beyond wins and losses, Vesel has committed his career to developing student‑athletes both on and off the field. His philosophy emphasizes motivation, leadership, accountability, and personal growth, encouraging athletes to “Dare to Be Great” in every aspect of their lives.