Annual Moose Krause Memorial Foundation Scholar-Athlete dinner honors Michiana student-athletes

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The 50th Annual Moose Krause Memorial Foundation Scholar-Athlete dinner took place Wednesday night at St. Hedwig Parish Hall where Notre Dame Head Football Coach Marcus Freeman gave a speech to the Michiana student-athletes being honored.

This year, 26 student-athletes were selected by the foundation to be recognized for their achievements both on and off the field.

The foundation awarded two sizable scholarships at the end of the evening to defray college expenses for the winners.

Freeman attended the event to answer questions submitted by the high school student-athletes at the end of the dinner.

"I say that again, because you all have been recognized as being extraordinary at what you do in the current situation. You guys are on a platform where you can lead, and can continue to lead, and we need you to lead so, so be a leader. Be a leader on the field. Be a leader off the field. Understand everybody's watching. Understand there's going to be expectations of you to solve problems. Understand there's expectations of you to make those around you better, but you guys are in a position to be leaders and make changes, and I encourage you to continue to choose hard and make those actions that I believe leaders truly entail you," Freeman said.

Foundation officials say many of their past honorees have gone on to careers in medicine, research, science, law, government, and other highly skilled fields.

Moose Krause Memorial Foundation background:

"Edward 'Moose' Krause was Athletic Director at Notre Dame for 33 years, from 1948 to 1981. During his tenure, the Irish won 4 national titles in football and produced 3 Heisman Trophy winners. As an undergrad at ND, Moose was a 2-time All-American in football and a 3-time All-American in basketball. He was recruited by Knute Rockne in 1930. Moose's son, Phil Krause, now heads the Memorial Foundation."