Steve D. Schnell ’94-’96 Football

Steve D. Schnell attended Iowa Lakes Community College from 1994-1996, he will be going into the Hall of Fame for Football.

Steve chose Iowa Lakes Community College to continue his education and football career after graduating high school.  He grew up in Graettinger, IA, and decided to attend Iowa Lakes to complete an associate of arts degree at a lower cost before transferring to a four year school to earn a bachelor’s degree.  Iowa Lakes gave him the opportunity to play football, as a defensive back, with and against many high level athletes and made it possible to receive a scholarship.

As a freshman, Steve was 3rd on the team with 70 total tackles, including 33 solo and 37 assists, he also recorded 3 interceptions.  His accomplishments his freshman season earned him Honorable Mention All-Region and helped lead the team to a 6-4 overall record.  As a sophomore, Steve was selected as a team captain. He was 2nd on the team with 74 total tackles, including 42 solo and 32 assists.  He also recovered 2 fumbles, and recorded 4 interceptions and 2 safeties.  His sophomore year he earned 1st Team All-Region and helped lead the team to a win at the R.C. Cola Bowl. This team finished the season ranked 12th nationally in the final poll.

Coach Ryck Hale had this to say about Steve, “Steve was an outstanding defensive back. He was excellent at covering receivers and supporting the run. His leadership was key in leading us to a 1995 RC Cola Bowl victory.”

When asked about his time at Iowa Lakes, Steve shared that his fondest memories were when the team qualified and went on to win the R.C. Cola Bowl at the UNI Dome in Cedar Falls.  He also greatly appreciated his coaches Ryck Hale, Mike McCarty, Courtney Messingham, and Roger Guge.  Roger Harms and Tony Stubbs were other faculty members who influenced him greatly. 

Steve is currently working at NorthStar Bank in Estherville serving as Senior Vice President. He is grateful to the people who have helped make him who he is today including: his parents Bud & Joyce Schnell, his brother Mike, and sister Staci. Without their support he wouldn’t be where he is today. 

Congratulations Steve D Schnell on being inducted into the Iowa Lakes Hall of Fame.