The Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks have captured the hearts of baseball fans with their vibrant in-game entertainment, highlighted this season by the unforgettable appearances of **Mateo Fernandez**, affectionately known as “MiniFan.” As the son of RedHawks catcher **Juan Fernandez**, Mateo became a beloved figure at **Newman Outdoor Field**, joining the popular “SuperFan” during multiple home games. Their dynamic duo earned the **American Association’s Best Ballpark Character Award** for the 2025 season, sharing the honor with the “Rally Pickle” of the **Chicago Dogs**.
Karina Fernandez, Mateo’s mother, expressed her delight at her son’s engagement with the RedHawks community. “I think it’s so cute,” she told The Forum in late August. “Now, he’s like practicing his autographs. We go to stores and people stop us and are like, ‘Hey, MiniFan.’ I’m like ‘Oh my God,’ this is something huge.” The family’s involvement underscores the RedHawks’ commitment to fostering a family-friendly atmosphere at the ballpark.
RedHawks manager **Chris Coste** emphasized the importance of such connections, noting how Mateo’s presence enriches the overall fan experience. “To have a son running around having fun, it’s good for Juan Fernandez, but also it’s good for the fans to kind of see the personal side of it,” Coste remarked. “We want them to be known and liked by the fans.”
“It’s special,” Juan said. “He helps me a lot. … When he sees me hitting bad, ‘Easy Dad, take it easy.’ That’s special, too.”
In addition to the Fernandez family’s influence, the RedHawks have also seen remarkable achievements from local athletes. **Gage Florence**, a senior receiver at **Minnesota State Moorhead**, concluded his college football career with an impressive **402 receptions**, setting an **NCAA Division II record**. His journey has been deeply shaped by his mother, **Kristin Florence-Bodine**, and the memory of his late father, **Jon Florence**, who passed away unexpectedly in 2008.
Reflecting on the impact of losing his father at a young age, Gage shared, “It’s so hard when your dad dies when you’re that young. You hold on to what you can and you always want to make your parents proud.” His mother’s unwavering support has fueled his ambition on the field.
While Gage Florence made headlines, another inspiring story emerged from **Concordia College**. Senior safety **McHale Korf** embraced the dual roles of father and student-athlete as he prepared for his final season. “It’s been crazy,” Korf said in September, just before a season-opening home game against **Mayville State**. “It’s been some of the best days of my life. Coming home from doing what I love with football and coming home to people I love, memories I will never forget for sure.”
Korf’s first game with his daughter in the stands added emotional significance to the occasion. “I think it’s going to add a little more of a motivational piece,” he noted. “You’re doing this for her and for the memories of her.”
The sense of community and nostalgia also resonated at the **Valley City High School** Wiffle Ball World Series, which celebrated its 13th and final event in July. Initially designed to connect graduates and friends, the series evolved into a cherished tradition that raised significant funds for local charities. “Each year we grew it more; we’d add something to the field, we’d add something to the entertainment spectacle,” said **Chad Bergan**, one of the original organizers.
As the final event approached, Bergan expressed a bittersweet sentiment, stating, “I didn’t want it to limp to the finish line. I wanted to declare that it was the final one so we can make it a big deal.” Fellow organizer **Pat Bresnahan** emphasized the nostalgic value of Wiffle ball, likening it to the themes of the film “Field of Dreams,” which resonate with many.
Lastly, a poignant moment unfolded in May when **Marge Clark**, the mother of long-time RedHawks radio voice **Jack Michaels**, passed away at the age of 92. Marge was the inspiration behind Michaels’ signature call, “Track it Down, Marge.” Following her death, RedHawks player **Dillon Thomas** hit a home run during a game in **Oconomowoc, Wisconsin**, and honored her memory by pointing skyward.
Michaels recounted the emotional experience, saying, “I just wanted to make sure I got the call out, the words out, because the lump in my throat I could feel it.” The moment marked a heartfelt tribute, illustrating how sports can intertwine with personal milestones, creating lasting memories for players and fans alike.
These stories from the **Fargo-Moorhead** area highlight the powerful connections between families, communities, and sports, showcasing how moments of joy and shared experiences define the fabric of local culture.
