Stay Close, Go Far: From Minnesota West to the Big Ten Sidelines

Growing up on a farm in Ocheyedan, Iowa, hard work wasn’t optional—it was a way of life. Chores didn’t stop for holidays, and the lesson was simple: do what it takes. That mindset became the foundation for Jacob Laverman’s journey that started close to home and led to the biggest stages in college and professional football.

After high school, Jacob felt uncertain about his future. Career paths were unclear, and the pressure to make the “right” choice loomed large. Minnesota West Community & Technical College offered the perfect solution: a financially responsible option just down the road. It wasn’t just about saving money—it was about buying time to explore, grow, and figure out what came next.

“I probably wouldn’t admit this to my parents, but I submitted my Minnesota West application on the very last day it was due—and somehow, everything fell into place just as it was meant to.”

With a sister who had graduated from Minnesota West and a family that valued practical decisions, the choice felt right. At Minnesota West, the experience was more than academics. It was a chance to keep playing sports—one year of golf and two years of baseball—while earning an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts.

Small class sizes and approachable professors created an environment where learning felt personal. Mentors like Joel Krekelberg, who taught Sports Injuries and Athletic Training courses, opened doors to new possibilities. Those classes sparked an interest in sports medicine—a passion that would shape the rest of his life.

“One memory that stands out from my time at Minnesota West was seeing my face on a campus billboard, thanks to my cousin Amber, who worked at the college. She was an incredible resource—always there to help and bridge the gap when I needed it.”

Minnesota West wasn’t just a stepping stone; it was a launchpad. “My first college experience had the support systems in place and made it easy to succeed. When it came time to move on to a four-year university, I felt fully prepared for that next step.”

Jacob explored education, music, history, and economics, while athletic coaches like Jeff Linder and Jeff Rogers taught lessons that went far beyond the field. Academic advisors like Kile Behrends guided the way forward, and family connections on campus made the experience feel like home.

“Looking back, I don’t know that any single moment ever felt like a major milestone—just the next step that helped set me up for what came next.”

Once Jacob committed to pursuing Athletic Training, he focused on finding a school with a strong reputation and solid opportunities in the field. Iowa State quickly stood out as the perfect next step—approachable, yet home to one of the most respected Athletic Training programs in the country, backed by an impressive network of alumni.

During the first fall at Iowa State in 2012, Jacob worked with college football as an athletic training student and was encouraged to pursue summer internships. After mailing applications to all 32 NFL teams, the Indianapolis Colts called, interviewed, and offered him an opportunity—thanks in part to Iowa State’s strong connections with their staff. Later, he landed a position with the Seattle Seahawks in the summer of 2016.

“The Colts and Seahawks staffs are among the best in the business, and I work to model my career after the professionalism and excellence they exemplify,” stated Jacob.

His interest deepened during his time with the Colts in 2013, where he was inspired by Erin Barill, their Director of Rehabilitation and a dual-credentialed PT/AT. His expertise and mentorship, which continued during Jacob’s 2018 season with the Colts, reinforced his goal to pursue a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree for advanced sports rehabilitation knowledge. With guidance from his Iowa State advisor, Mary Meier—another key mentor—Jacob applied to Washington University in St. Louis, one of the nation’s top PT programs, and was fortunate to be accepted. These relationships were pivotal in shaping his career path.

As graduation approached, the journey came full circle with a seasonal role as a physical therapist and athletic trainer for the Colts in 2018. Jacob was fortunate that the key experiences and relationships along the way positioned him as a strong candidate for a role that provided invaluable experience and confidence in high-level football rehabilitation.

That opportunity led to his current role: Director of Football Rehabilitation and Assistant Athletic Trainer at Indiana University, where he’s now in his seventh season. From NFL sidelines to the Big Ten Championship stage, Jacob’s impact is clear—helping athletes recover, perform, and achieve their dreams.

“In the moment, I never knew which relationships or experiences would turn out to be the most important, but I’m deeply grateful for each one and for where they’ve led me today.”

Mentorship and networking proved invaluable, with every relationship opening doors to the next opportunity.

“Take time to look at your options—what’s out there and what it’ll cost—and talk to trusted advisors. Once you pick a path, go all in, build relationships, and keep an open mind because you never know which connection will change everything. Be ready to give it your all. I hope I’m beginning to build a strong network and create opportunities to give back—helping the next generation of sports medicine professionals succeed."

Jacob is a first-generation college graduate. Raised in a Midwest agricultural family, his parents instilled a simple expectation: work hard and pursue success. There’s a book called It Takes What It Takes—and honestly, his parents could have written it. Growing up, doing what had to be done was the baseline. That mindset shaped everything. Eight years of college never felt overwhelming—it was just what it took. Today, his profession demands long hours and commitment, but his agricultural roots gave him the resilience to thrive in that environment.

“This job is fast-paced and high-pressure, demanding a high level of skill and focus. You have to consistently perform at your best and bring the energy to match the expectations of this level of sport.”

Today, the rewards aren’t measured in titles or trophies, but in the behind-the-scenes moments—helping athletes push through adversity, celebrating victories, and knowing that every step and fight of the journey mattered.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with several elite quarterbacks throughout my career—Andrew Luck with the Colts, Russell Wilson with the Seahawks, and at IU, recent draft picks Michael Penix Jr. and Kurtis Rourke."

"To his great credit, Fernando Mendoza carries himself like a true professional and belongs among that caliber of talent. He exemplifies the ‘first one in, last one out’ mentality, pays attention to every detail, and approaches his craft with humble poise that draws people in. He’s respectful, dedicated, and invests heavily in taking care of his body. I have nothing but praise for Fernando and look forward to watching his career continue to grow.”

After seven seasons with Indiana University, Indiana’s victory in the 2025 Big Ten Championship Game at Lucas Oil Stadium was truly monumental, a high not seen here for generations. Jacob was fortunate to celebrate on the field with his wife and dad, while his gracious mom stayed home on babysitting duty for their one-year-old son. That moment perfectly captures his journey—sharing success with those who have sacrificed so much for him, while his mom, now a grandmother, continues to give generously so he can pursue his dreams. There’s a jar of confetti from postgame that will live on his shelf for a long time, as a simple reminder of that special night.

From the farm in Ocheyedan, Iowa, being featured on a marketing billboard for Minnesota West and confetti at Lucas Oil Stadium after Indiana’s Big Ten Championship win, Jacob’s story is proof of one powerful truth: Stay Close. Go Far. Every day, he reminds himself to be grateful for the incredible opportunities he’s been given, and he carries with him the belief that he belongs wherever he chooses to go.

Minnesota West was the first step toward a career that now stands at the intersection of passion, perseverance, and purpose.