Minot State Climbing Club returns in a big way
MINOT, N.D. – The Climbing Club at Minot State University has a story rooted in revival and student initiative.
Though the club had existed previously under different names and goals, it had gone quiet for some time. The effort to bring it back began with Benjamin Bagwell ’22, the University’s coordinator of recreation programs, who encouraged the MSU Wellness Center Rock Wall staff to restart the club.
That spark led students Bryer Samuelson and Shawn Bennett, both active in MSU’s Student Government Association and climbing, to officially reestablish the club last spring.
Shortly after, a new leadership team was formed, and the club began to gain momentum. Its core mission has remained simple and powerful: to have fun, bring people together through climbing, and explore new experiences, both on campus and beyond
“As the club constitution says, ‘We Just Wanna Rock,” said MSU Climbing Club member Yoni Neyshtadt.
Today, the club hosts weekly meetings and climbing practices where members congregate, plan events, and enjoy free climbing time.
One of the club’s major highlights is participating in the USA Climbing Collegiate Series, part of the Heartland Conference. This year, members have traveled to Fargo three times and to Rapid City once for competitions. Locally, the club hosts major events like the Mile High Challenge, where climbers aim to complete a vertical mile over a month, and the Prairie Peaks Competition. The year will close with an outdoor climbing trip to Spearfish in South Dakota’s Black Hills, an amazing opportunity for members to try real rock climbing for the first time.
“Rock climbing moved to an indoor setting fairly recently to give an opportunity for people to climb even if there is no hard rock in the surrounding area,” Climbing Club member Nikita Neyshtadt said. “But going outdoors is still the best way to climb, in my opinion. Setting your own lines/rope, finding holds in the rock yourself, and feeling the breeze as you go up; nothing beats that feeling.”
Inclusivity is at the heart of the MSU Climbing Club. The group is open to everyone, regardless of skill level or experience level. The only thing required is spirit. For beginners, the club offers a welcoming environment to learn all the basics, while experienced climbers can test their skills, learn new techniques, and give advice to others.
The MSU Wellness Center Rock Wall is regularly updated by trained staff, bouldering routes rotate about every month, and top-rope routes every two months, so there’s always something new to climb. Route setters also ensure a variety of styles and difficulties are available to challenge all ability levels.
What also makes the MSU Climbing Club special is the strong sense of community. Members form lasting friendships, share encouragement, and celebrate progress together. Whether it’s hanging out at practice, traveling to a competition, or discussing route beta, the social atmosphere is the cherry on top.
“The laughs we share, even just on the road, make long drives pass quickly and make me look forward to club activities,” Nikita Neyshtadt said. “In just one year, we have accomplished so much, and it starts with everyone’s buy-in and participation in the club.”
Looking ahead, the club is open to fresh ideas, such as hosting a Headlamp Night Climb at the MSU Wellness Center Rock Wall, and aims to keep expanding its reach and bringing in new climbers with the help of its enthusiastic members.
The club has already created meaningful experiences for its members. One club leader fondly recalled a personal climbing trip to Joshua Tree National Park, calling it unforgettable. Within the club itself, a favorite moment was the group’s first overnight trip to Rapid City, an exciting milestone that had adventure, bonding, competition, and perfect weather. As the Climbing Club continues to grow, it remains grounded in its mission to build a welcoming space where students can climb, connect, and challenge themselves together.
“It’s been really exciting helping people discover the sport,” said Bagwell.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 05/09/25
