Last week Fighting Sioux Club Director Josh Morton had an e-mail interview with Fighting Sioux Club member Peter Klokstad. Peter is currently serving in Iraq, but has been a member of the Fighting Sioux Club for years. Here’s a piece of the interview.
Q. What years did you go to UND?
1986-1990 (B.B.A.)
Q. You’ve been a Fighting Sioux Club member for awhile while living in Seattle ? what makes you want to give to UND athletics?
As a Grand Forks native, I have been a Fighting Sioux fan my entire life. I joined the Fighting Sioux Club in 2001 because I had reached a financial position allowing me to make a positive contribution back to UND and to share great hockey and football experiences with my family and friends.
Q. How closely can you follow Sioux hockey in Iraq?
My family and friends have been keeping me updated via email, including sending me links to YouTube videos showing some of the best shots on goal. I also check out both the UND and Grand Forks Herald web pages for news whenever I get a chance.
Q. Have you come across any other Sioux fans?
I have not run into any other Sioux fans over here yet, but I'm sure there are many UND grads and students serving our country here in Iraq and cheering on the Sioux when they can.
Q. Are you hopeful to be back in the U.S. for the Frozen Four?
I definitely hope to, but I most likely will not get back to the States until the Frozen Four is over. If I do get tickets, several of my Fraternity Brothers (Phi Delta Theta) have told me they would gladly accept them. I was fortunate to attend two of the last three Frozen Four tournaments and it's been great to watch the awesome performance of Coach Hakstol and the players every year.
Q. How long have you been in Iraq?
I have been over here since the start of the year and it has been a privilege to work with so many outstanding men and women serving our country in the armed forces.
Q. If you could give the pregame speech for Dave Hakstol this week what would you tell the team?
Well I'm not much of a hockey player and I'm definitely not a coach, but here goes:
You've made it this far becasue you've come together as a hockey team and earned the right to be here, so skate fast, check hard, make shots on goal and keep your heads in the game.
Q. What does your family think about your service in Iraq?
My family is proud of my volunteering to serve in Iraq, but I must admit my parents worry and will be relieved when I get back home safe.
Q. What can you tell us about what you’re doing over there?
I'm serving in my capacity as a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent, working on our counterterrorism mission.
Thanks Pete ? I find it amazing that you still stay so close to Sioux athletics. It is much appreciated. Thanks and God bless.
