It looks like there is some truth behind the phrase “Once a Viking always a Viking.” Augustana University’s star running back, CJ Ham, signed a free-agent deal with the Minnesota Vikings last week after being asked to attend their minicamp. Ham played a huge role at Augustana: he racked up over 2,500 yards rushing, 900 yards receiving and 35 touchdowns over the course of his four years.

“Without dedication and hard work none of this would have been possible,” said Ham. “Augustana has given me a great opportunity to go out and showcase my ability. My coaches did a great job of coaching me and helping me learn how to be the best player that I can be. My agent was a big part of it as well. Without him a lot of teams wouldn’t have known who I was.”

As Ham looks forward to his future, it is the opportunities that will soon turn into experiences that he is most looking forward to. Playing in the NFL will allow Ham to learn many skills from those who have been around the game at the highest level.

“Going into the NFL, the game is a little bit different,” said Ham. “But to get that experience under my belt and learn and be around people who have played the game at a really high level for a long time is the biggest thing I’m looking forward to.”

Before Ham can head back up to Minnesota for off season training, he must first complete his student teaching. Ham has been working with LHS teacher Jeffrey Halseth by day and looking over his new Viking’s playbook by night. As he prepares to switch from blue and gold to purple and yellow, Ham is ready to contribute in whatever way the coaches see fit.

“Anything they want me to do I am more than willing to do,” said Ham. “I’m hoping to contribute on special teams a lot, and get on the field.”

As Ham leaves the LHS gym as a student teacher and heads to Minnesota to pursue his childhood dream, there are a few words of advice he wants every high school athlete to hear.

“Hard work really does pay off,” said Ham. “Anything can happen and no matter what school you go to or what level you play at, it doesn’t matter. If you’re talented, they will find you, and if you are determined to make it you will get a shot to make it. Don’t let anyone tell you differently.”