Backer Chooses Central | News, Sports, and Employment Updates

Maddie Backer: A Bright Future Ahead in Pella, Iowa

As the winter chill settles over New Ulm, Minnesota, the excitement of new beginnings is palpable for senior Maddie Backer. The talented athlete, known for her prowess on the basketball court and softball field, is preparing to take a significant step in her life. With her recent signing of a Letter of Intent, Backer is set to continue her athletic and academic journey at Central College in Pella, Iowa, a small city that mirrors the charm of her hometown.

A Promising Athletic Career

Standing at 5-foot-6, Maddie Backer has made a name for herself as a starting guard for the New Ulm Eagles girls basketball team. During the 2023-24 season, she showcased her skills by averaging 10.8 points, 4.1 assists, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.6 steals per game. Her performance not only highlights her versatility on the court but also her dedication to the sport. As she enters her final year of high school basketball, Backer is eager to make it her best season yet.

Backer’s journey to Central College began during a summer elite camp, where she was immediately drawn to the coaching staff and the team’s culture. “I went down for a visit to Central in the summer and I loved their coaching staff,” she shared. This connection solidified her decision, making it clear that Central was the right fit for her both athletically and academically.

A New Home in Pella

Pella, Iowa, with a population of around 10,500, offers a small-town atmosphere similar to New Ulm. Founded by Dutch immigrants in the mid-1800s, Pella is rich in history and community spirit. Backer appreciates the familiarity of her new home, stating, “It reminds me a lot of New Ulm; it’s kind of a smaller town, but it’s not teeny-tiny.”

Central College, established in 1853, is home to the Division III Central College Dutch. With a student body of approximately 1,700, the college provides a close-knit environment that Backer finds appealing. The Dutch women’s basketball head coach, Justin Weiland, has already indicated that Backer will likely play at point guard, shooting guard, or small forward, giving her the opportunity to showcase her skills in various positions.

A Familiar Style of Play

One of the aspects that excites Backer about joining Central College is the similarity in playing style between her high school team and the Dutch. “I think they have a very similar offense to my school ball team,” she explained. The emphasis on fast breaks and minimal passes resonates with her experience at New Ulm, making the transition to college basketball feel more seamless.

Backer has already begun to build relationships with her future teammates, noting the talent in the post position, particularly with 6-foot-1 sophomore forward CeCe Moore. The camaraderie and shared goals within the team are aspects that Backer is looking forward to as she embarks on this new chapter.

Balancing Sports and Academics

While basketball is a significant focus for Backer, she has also excelled in softball, leading the Eagles with a .382 batting average and impressive statistics in hits, runs, stolen bases, and triples during the spring of 2024. Despite receiving interest from coaches in both sports, Backer ultimately decided to concentrate on basketball for her college career. “I just wanted that one sport to be basketball,” she stated, emphasizing her passion for the game.

Backer considered other schools, including Bethany Lutheran College, but found Central College to be the perfect fit. “Pretty much after I got the offer from Central, any other school that reached out to me, I kind of told them that I wasn’t interested,” she said. This clarity in her decision-making reflects her commitment to her future.

Looking Ahead

As she prepares for her senior year, Backer is not only focused on basketball but also on her academic pursuits. While she has not made a final decision, she is currently considering studying business analytics. The prospect of balancing academics with athletics excites her, and she recognizes the importance of this opportunity. “I am really looking forward to continuing my basketball career,” she expressed, acknowledging the rarity of extending an athletic career beyond high school.

With her competitive spirit and dedication, Maddie Backer is poised to make a significant impact at Central College. As she transitions from New Ulm to Pella, she carries with her the lessons learned on the court and the support of her community. The winter of 2025 may seem distant, but for Backer, the journey has just begun, and she is ready to embrace the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead.