By Ryan Deal

605 Sports

Kolda, who also competes in wrestling and track and field, was a Class 11B all-state honorable mention last season. He rushed for 691 yards and four touchdowns, while adding 278 yards receiving and four more scores. 

The idea of missing his senior football season was a tough pill to swallow. 

“It was pretty scary,” Kolda said. “Football is probably my favorite sport. When I found that out, I just had to stay positive.”

Kolda steadily improved, but still watched from the sidelines during August and missed the season opener on Aug. 30 against Hot Springs.  

“I was a little frustrated sitting there having to watch practice,” Kolda said. “Because I knew I was going to be behind, learning the new plays. I had some teammates help me, coaches help me out. So it wasn't too bad.”

Miller/Highmore-Harrold's Colby Kolda (22) carries the ball against Mobridge-Pollock on Sept. 6 in Miller. (Ryan Deal / 605 Sports)

On Sept. 6, 48 days after fracturing his hip, made his season debut against Mobridge-Pollock. Kolda admitted nerves set prior to the game, but settled in as the game went along and “after I got my first couple of hits in, the nerves went away and I felt good.” 

“I was a little nervous. I didn’t want to get hurt again. But I kind of played it safe the first series and then I was like ‘All right it’s time to go.’ ” 

Miller/Highmore-Harrold dropped a 50-32 decision against the Tigers, in which Mobridge-Pollock pulled away after a seesaw three quarters of play. 

But Kolda was still grateful to be back playing the game he loves. 

“It felt good,” Kolda said. “It kind of took a little bit for me to get back to myself. Once I did, I was having fun.”

Miller/Highmore-Harrold will play at Chamberlain on Sept. 13.