Since transferring to Minnesota State from North Dakota State, junior linebacker Isaac Kolstad has been an integral part of a stout defense that has helped the Maverick football program post a 22-4 record the past two seasons.
 
Kolstad, a native of Mankato, Minn., played his high school football at local Mankato East, where he did a little bit of everything on the field for the Cougars from 2004-2007.
 
A first-team all-conference and all-city selection at East, Kolstad lined up and produced at receiver, running back and kick returner, while also starting in the secondary on the defensive side of the ball.
 
After redshirting his first year at Division-I NDSU and serving as a backup his freshman campaign, Kolstad came back to his hometown to play for the Mavericks and has been making a huge impact since sitting out the 2010 season.
 
In 2011, Kolstad started 11 of 12 games for MSU, finishing fourth on the team with 65 tackles.
 
Kolstad peaked last season for the Mavericks, earning Honorable Mention All-NSIC South Division honors after recording 58 tackles and 8.5 for a loss, which was good for third-most on the team.
 
His 2012 season was also highlighted by five pass breakups, two sacks and an interception returned for a touchdown against Wayne State in late October.
 
Interim head coach Aaron Keen has noticed Kolstad’s growth as a player since his arrival at MSU.
 
“Isaac has developed into a fast and physical linebacker. This past season his knowledge of the defense allowed him to play with so much confidence,” said Keen. “He has truly become an impact player on our defense.  We expect Isaac to once again help lead our defense to an outstanding season [in 2013].”
 
What attracted you to transfer to MSU?
IK: When I decided to transfer MSU was really the only school I looked at. They had just had two successful seasons in a row and I felt that the program was headed in the right direction. I wanted to go to place where I would be able to compete and have a chance to win a championship.
 
What's it like playing for your hometown team?
IK: I love playing in Mankato. Playing for my hometown team allows all of my family and friends to be able to make it to plenty of games during the season.
 
What part of your game has improved most since you started your collegiate career?
IK: The part of my game that has most improved is my football IQ. Everyone is a good athlete at this level but over the past few years I feel that I have learned our defensive scheme better. Coach K does a great job of teaching the defense so that on game day I can play fast and put myself in better positions to make plays.
 
Entering your senior year, how will your role change heading into next season?
IK: This year I will be counted on to be more of a leader. As a senior, people look to you for leadership. Last year we had a great group of seniors and that contributed a lot to our success.
 
What was the most special aspect of this past season's 13-1 squad?
IK: The most special aspect was the way we came together as a team. I had never been apart of team that was as focused and determined as we were last year. I'm looking forward to building on that this year.
 
What's your most memorable moment/game as a player?
IK: My most memorable game would have to be after our 2nd playoff victory. I just remember the feeling on the field after we stopped their last drive and how excited we were to keep our season going.
 
Your time at Mankato East showed you can do it all on the field, what has made you settle in at LB?
IK: I love playing linebacker because it is a position where not only do you have to stop the run, you also have to be able to get in pass coverage. I'm bigger than I was in high school and I can run so linebacker is a natural fit for me.
 
What was it like sitting out 2010 season after you transferred?
IK: Sitting out 2010 was tough but it made me miss the game even more and I was excited to be able to come back and play for MSU.
 
What did Coach Keen mean to the team this season?
IK: Coach Keen and all of the coaches from day one did a great job of keeping us focused on going 1-0 each week. They don't get enough credit for the time they put in each week to help us be successful.
 
Who is your favorite NFL player and why?
IK: My favorite NFL player is Patrick Willis. He is the best linebacker in the NFL. He makes play all over the field and plays sideline to sideline.
 
Do you have any special gameday routines or superstitions?
IK: I don't have a specific superstition. I like to keep the same routine every week and I usually take a walk around campus or wherever we are playing and listen to some music. I like to try and stay relaxed.
 
What do you like to do when you're not on the football field?
IK: When I am not playing football I like to hang out with my fiance Molly and my daughter Haidyn. I also like to go fishing and enjoy time out on the lake during the summer.