Activities

Welcome to the Home of the Falcons!

Armstrong High School offers a variety of co-curricular and extracurricular activities designed to meet the interests of students.

Participation in a school activity can be a valuable and rewarding experience, adding to a well-rounded education. Not only does one experience a feeling of satisfaction, personal achievement, and camaraderie, but one gains skills in decision-making, goal setting and teamwork. We sincerely hope you find an interest in one of more of the more than 75 activities (school-sponsored teams, clubs and fine arts) and choose to participate.

NOTE: Some of these activities may not be offered every year. Our offerings vary with student interest, our ability to locate qualified advisers, and activity funding. Also, students who are eligible for free or reduced lunch may be eligible for reduced activity fees. See your coach/advisor or the activities secretary for more information.

Contact

Larry Tate
Activities Director
763-504-8818
Larry_Tate@rdale.org

Becky Enderlein
Assistant
763-504-8833
Rebecca_Enderlein@rdale.org

Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Registration
Activities and Athletics COVID guidelines

Registration

We are excited to announce that we now have ONLINE REGISTRATION available for all activities! We encourage everyone to set up your family account. You will be able to list all of your Armstrong students under a family account.

A few highlights with online registration:

You will need your Students ID #, which can be found on your students Armstrong ID card or their most recent report card.
If you have a new sports physical, you will be able to upload it within the registration process.
All MSHLS Eligibility Documents are within the registration so you can approve and electronically sign.
Emergency Contact information is included in the registration process.
PAY ONLINE with your credit or debit card. Or choose to pay later and bring cash/check to the athletic office.

Once you have your account set up you will need to verify it with your email. You can then easily add your students to your account.

To register online, click on this link – https://armstronghs-ar.rschooltoday.com/

If you would like to register with forms, they can be downloaded below or picked up in the Armstrong activity office beginning August 2.

The Armstrong Activities office will be open beginning August 2 - 7:30 am - 3:30 pm.

Complete and return registration form and activity emergency card to the Activities/Athletics Office; do not bring to your first practice or tryout.

Activity registration form

activity emergency card

Activities and Athletics COVID guidelines

While we’re gearing up for the start of the 2021-22 school year, our District’s Incident Command Team is also keeping a watchful eye on COVID-19 and its delta variant. During the month of August, the team has been finalizing the 2021-22 COVID-19 protocols for this upcoming school year. These protocols were presented to the School Board on Aug. 16, and are now being shared with our families, staff and community.

Face coverings, quarantines

For Robbinsdale Area Schools, the universal wearing of face coverings represents the safest way to start the 2021-22 school year, and also the least disruptive way to conduct in-person learning.

Beginning Monday, Aug. 23, face coverings will be required for all pre-K-12 students over the age of two, staff and visitors, regardless of vaccination status, while on the school bus, or while indoors at all schools and District facilities, including the Crystal Learning Center.

As a school district, we have a responsibility to protect those who can’t get a vaccine or are not yet eligible for one, including our youngest students.

Requiring masks inside our buildings and buses will allow us to reduce the number of disruptive classroom quarantines. Per the Minnesota Departments of Education (MDE) and Health (MDH), full classroom quarantines will no longer be necessary when face-coverings have been used consistently. There are additional updates regarding quarantines in the event of at-home exposure, and those details can be found on the district’s COVID-19 updates page.

In-person learning

We’re confident in our planning -- and in the continued layering of efforts to minimize the spread of the virus while at school: face-coverings, hand hygiene, and promoting screening and vaccination of those who are eligible. For these reasons, Robbinsdale Area Schools will begin the school year offering full-time, in-person learning, with no plans for hybrid or distance learning options.

Vaccines

Staff can find information about how to access free vaccinations by visiting the state’s vaccine connector website. In addition, MDH is currently offering $100 to anyone who gets vaccinated for the first time. Those curious about COVID booster shots are encouraged to talk to their doctor or visit a pharmacy. At this time, the district will not be hosting a site to offer boosters.

We get it -- COVID-19 fatigue is real. As we’ve learned, the situation can change quickly. Our sincere hope is to hold in-person classes for the entire year, and to set the masks aside -- forever -- as soon as we can. As always, we will continue to monitor the situation and the data, and follow recommendations and guidance of our state and local experts.

We encourage all staff to take a look at the district’s COVID-19 webpage for more information and details about how to report an exposure, positive test or active symptoms. We will communicate regularly to share timely and important updates.

Activity/Athletic Events

These masking guidelines apply for both home and away games for staff, athletes, clubs, and Fine Arts performers.

Indoor activities:

Spectators are required to wear a mask at all times inside District 281 facilities.
Participants are required to wear a mask while on the bench, and practice social distancing.
Participants are recommended, but not required to wear a mask during plays/performances.
- At practices/rehearsals participants can lower their masks while active in the session.

Outdoor activities:

No face covering required
Participants should practice social distancing to the greatest extent possible.

Bands:

When possible, Bands should be stationed away from spectators.

Locker Rooms:

Access to locker rooms should be staggered, and players should practice social distancing.

Concessions:

Concession stands will be open. Staff must wear a face covering at all times.

It is always our goal to provide a safe environment for our students to participate in extracurricular activities. In the event a group/team incurs 3 or more positive cases, all families of that group/team will be notified. Unvaccinated players will follow quarantine protocol.

Learn More

Act On it!

Created by former Armstrong graduates who wanted a place to talk about social issues and acting on them, Act On It! is a student organization that focuses on sharing, educating, and learning about each other and issues around us. Students will work together on providing learning opportunities for each other as well as for the school.

When activity takes place: After school

Lettering Opportunities?: Yes

Requirements: Interest in social justice, social construction, and learning from peers.

Adviser: Syra Yang

More Information: Room 348 / Syra_Yang@Rdale.org / 763-504-8755

Anime Club

Best Buddies

Best Buddies provides an opportunity for dedicated high school students to be matched in a one-to-one friendship with a student with an intellectual and/or physical disability. This is an important friendship in the lives of those students that could be lasting.

Adviser(s): Grant Brakob, Leah Dussalt
Where to go for more info: Grant_Brakob@Rdale.org, 763-504-8887 | Leah_Dussalt@Rdale.org, 763-504 8724
Season: September to May
When activity takes place: Group activities once a month. Contact with your buddy once a week.
Eligibility requirements: Complete a Best Buddies online application
Average number of members: 75-100
Cost or needed equipment: Minimal activity costs
Activity fee: NA
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Book Club

The student organization will read different texts to practice literary analysis. In addition, participants will explore social emotional aspects while practicing listening to the dialogues/conversations, sharing experiences/perspectives, and supporting an understanding of ourselves and the world.

Adviser(s): Syra Yang
Where to go for more info: Room 348/ Syra_Yang@Rdale.org
Season: September to May
When activity takes place: After school/during school
Eligibility requirements: Interest in learning, exploring, and supporting non-traditional texts to gain literacy skills.
Average number of members: 3-8
Cost or needed equipment: Minimal activity costs
Activity fee: NA
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Cycle Club

Armstrong Cycle Club is a Co-Ed competitive mountain bike club whose purpose is to provide healthy, active cycling experiences for 7th – 12th grade students in our community. All athletes participate and have the opportunity to score points for the team. While mountain biking is inherently fun, our 5 challenging races will test your resolve to finish.

armstrong cycle club website

Adviser(s): Jeff Schreifels
Where to go for more info: website, room 336, or Jeff_Schreifels@Rdale.org
Season: Fall (July 1 – October 31)
When activity takes place: Practices are after school 2 times per week – Mon & Wed, and Saturdays
Competitions/performances: There are five Sunday races in September and October
Eligibility requirements: All students are welcome to participate
Cost or needed equipment: $400 total for Club Dues, registration fees and race fees (approx.). Mountain bike and helmet required.
Average number of members: 17
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Dance Team - Fall Performance

A fun non-competition dance club where dancers will practice and perform routines that will incorporate techniques and skills primarily from the styles of jazz and high kick.

Adviser(s): Rozlyn Paradis
Where to go for more info: coach.rozparadis@gmail.com
Season: Fall
When activity takes place: Practices are after school four to five times a week
Performances: Home football and soccer games, pep fests with local school performances and parades.
Eligibility requirements: Tryouts
Average number of members: 25
Cost or needed equipment: $110 plus performance uniform, team jacket and other team apparel
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Deca

Business and marketing club where students learn skills to help them for life after Cooper. Students will have an opportunity to compete against other high schools in different business events like Mock Interviews, Entrepreneurship Ideas and Business Plans.

Adviser(s): Brianna Hershey
Where to go for more info: Athletic/Activities Office | brianna_hershey@rdale.org
Season: October-April
When activity takes place: We meet on Tuesdays during the lunch hour at Cooper high school. Students are free to join on google meet if unable to drive over during the school day.
Requirements: Come to meetings and compete at Districts
Cost: None
Lettering Opportunities: Yes – based off competition and years in club
Average number of members: 30/Co-cop with Cooper High School

Debate

Debate is a MSHSL (Minnesota State High School League) activity in which students compete individually or as two-person teams to prove your words are better than your opponents. Debate is a fast paced activity where students are required to argue a range of topics. Students participate in weekly tournaments all leading up to the MSHSL's oldest and most storied State Tournament held on the campus of the University of Minnesota.

Robbinsdale debate website

Adviser(s): Richard Brynteson
Where to go for more info: Athletic/Activities office, website, rbrynteson@brynteson.info
Season: September - January
When activity takes place: Practice twice a week after school
Competitions/performances: Weekly from September – January
Eligibility requirements: None
Average number of members: 40
Cost or needed equipment: $110 participation fee
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

E-Sports Club

The E-Sports Club is a chance for students to come together and compete with one another in video game competition. Tournaments are created so everyone has a chance to play each game at least one time. The club members will determine which video games will be used for each tournament. Students must enter into the tournament and will be told which date their games will be on.

Adviser(s): Nathan Hakes
Where to go for more info: nathan_hakes@rdale.org
Season: Weekly – November - May
When activity takes place: After school on Wednesdays
Eligibility requirements: 9-12 grade All students are welcome to watch tournament games but only students who have a scheduled game will compete. You cannot enter a competition if you have any NCs.
Average number of members: The size of each tournament will be determined by the students who are eligible to enter.
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Environmental Club

This is a national organization that is student lead. Student athletes discuss and grow together in their faith with a common platform of the sports arena. A typical huddle includes prayer, game time, sport updates, lesson, and small group discussions.

Adviser(s): Kathy Kneeland
Where to go for more info: Kathy_Kneeland@Rdale.org / 763-504-8926
Season: All year (September – June)
When activity takes place: Meetings and activities after school, 1 to 2 times per month
Eligibility requirements: None
Average number of members: 30 plus
Cost or needed equipment: None

Fellowship of Christian Athletes

Adviser(s): Bill McCloskey
Where to go for more info: William_McCloskey@Rdale.org / 763-504-8934 / twitter: @Armstrong_FCA, Instagram: Armstrong FCA
Season: August - May
When activity takes place: Every other Monday, 7:00 pm (Location TBD)
Eligibility requirements: None
Average number of members: 40
Cost or needed equipment: None
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

FIRST Robotics

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics is an international competition to build a robot within a six week period to accomplish a certain task that changes every year. Many aspects are involved as in building and maintaining web pages, creating animated safety demonstrations, engineering design, designing and building a robot, and electrical design to name a few. And of course, a lot of fun and hard work.

first inspires website

Adviser(s): Chadd Perkins, Jay Dornfeld
Where to go for more info: Chadd_Perkins@Rdale.org / 763-504-8752 | Jay_Dornfeld@Rdale.org / 763-504-8929
Season: All year but the main season is from early January to the middle of February with the regional competition in April.
When activity takes place: After school
Competitions/performances: Regional Competition in April
Eligibility requirements: Everyone is encouraged to join.
Average number of members: 15-20 but can be more, Co-ed
Cost or needed equipment: $25 but will be discounted with fundraising efforts

GSA/Safe Students/LGBT

The Armstrong Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA), Safe Students or Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender (LGBT) Group serves to promote respect and acceptance for all students and their families regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. It also provides education, awareness and support for LGBT students, and organizes activities aimed at creating a positive school climate for all students.

Armstrong also offers a LGBT Support Group which provides students a safe place to talk to peers in smaller group settings about personal issues specific to students who identify as LGBT.

Adviser(s): Tim Shaikoski
Where to go for more info: Tim_Shaikoski@rdale.org, 763-504-8827
Season: All year (September-June)
When activity takes place: Meets twice a month or TBD
Eligibility requirements: None. All are welcome. General interest in diversity and human rights is helpful.
Average number of members: 20-25
Cost or needed equipment: None

Hmong Org

The student organization will collaborate and get to know each other, providing learning opportunities and support for each other. In addition, participants will explore cultural awareness and social emotional aspects while practicing listening to the dialogues/conversations, sharing experiences/perspectives, and supporting an understanding of ourselves and the world.

Adviser(s): Syra Yang
Where to go for more information: Room 348 / Syra_Yang@Rdale.org / 763-504-8755
Season: All year
When activity takes place: Two times a month
Average number of members: 20-25
Eligibility requirements: Interest in learning, exploring, and supporting Hmong culture.
Cost or needed equipment: None
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

International Cultural Exchange Group

The International Cultural Exchange Group provides support, community building, education and leadership opportunities for international exchange students.

Adviser(s): Jamie Dukowitz
Where to go for more information: Guidance Office / Jamie_Dukowitz@Rdale.org / 763-504-8824
Season: All year
When activity takes place: Two times a month
Eligibility requirements: International exchange student
Cost or needed equipment: None
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Intramurals - Basketball

Intramurals is an opportunity for students to compete against other students in a less competitive league. It is not associated with the Minnesota State High School League. Students must abide by school rules and guidelines. The competition levels vary, and teams will play a round robin type schedule, with a double elimination tournament to conclude the season.

Adviser(s): Travis Kern
Where to go for more info: Athletic/Activities office / Travis_Kern@rdale.org / 763-504-8739
Season: Basketball - Winter (Dec.- March)
When activity takes place: Monday evenings
Eligibility requirements: Current Armstrong student
Cost or needed equipment: $25 participation fee per player

Link Crew

Link Crew is a high school transition program that trains members of the junior and senior class to welcome freshmen and makes them feel comfortable throughout the first year of their high school experience. As positive role models, Link Leaders are motivators, leaders and teachers who guide the freshmen to discover what it takes to be successful during the transition to high school.

Adviser(s): Nathan Hakes
Where to go for more info: Room 182 / Nathan_Hakes@Rdale.org / 763-504-8925
Season: Basketball - All year (August - June)
When activity takes place: Throughout the year, but most activities take place during the first week of school.
Average number of members: 150
Eligibility requirements: Juniors and seniors who are academically eligible and an application process.
Cost or needed equipment: Students pay for t-shirts – approx. $15
Lettering opportunities: Yes

Math Team

Math Team students compete in statewide math contests developed by college professors. The purpose is to develop mathematics skills, critical thinking and to have fun.

Adviser(s): Michael Mohr
Where to go for more info: Math Resource Room 339 / Mike_Mohr@Rdale.org / 763-504-8943
Season: Fall - Winter (October - February)
When activity takes place: Monday after school for about one hour and/or one morning before school
Competitions/performances: There are 5 meets, held on Mondays, 2:30-6:00 p.m., about once a month.
Eligibility requirements: None
Average number of members: 15-20
Cost or needed equipment: $110 participation fee
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Military Club

Military Club meets weekly to discuss different aspects of military life. Club meetings will discuss military training, fitness, the ASVAB and other military history and customs. Mr. Hakes served five years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps and six years in the Army Reserve. The topics discussed will be based on the needs of the students; military recruiters can be invited to talk with the club.

ahs military club

Adviser(s): Nathan Hakes
Where to go for more info: Room 182 / Nathan_Hakes@Rdale.org / 763-504-8925
Season: Monthly from November - May
When activity takes place: The first Tuesday of each month.
Competitions/performances: None
Eligibility requirements: Juniors and seniors who are academically eligible and an application process.
Average number of members: 6-8
Cost or needed equipment: Students pay for t-shirts – approx. $15
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Muslim Association Group

Adviser(s): Syra Yang
Where to go for more info: Room 348/ Syra_Yang@Rdale.org / 763-504-8755
Season: All year (September - June)
When activity takes place: After school / during school
Average number of members: 3 - 8
Eligibility requirements: Interest in learning, exploring, and supporting Muslim culture and beliefs.
Cost: None
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

National Honor Society (NHS)

Participation in service projects is required. Students who are selected participate in individual and group service projects for the betterment of the school and community.

Adviser(s): Melissa Schuchmann
Where to go for more info: Room C217/ Melissa_Schuchmann@Rdale.org / 763-504-8870
Season: All year (September - June)
When activity takes place: Monthly mandatory meetings before school. Activities also take place throughout the year. Induction ceremony in the fall, activities as planned.
Average number of members: Varies - Not all students academically eligible are selected
Eligibility requirements: Selection packets available in late August and due in mid-September. A list of eligible students will be posted in the office when packets are available. Students must be in grades 11 or 12, or in a post-secondary program, in attendance at RAHS for at least one semester; have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.6; return selection information materials by due date. Students are selected based on their service, leadership, scholarship, and character. Transfer students may be eligible but should talk to their counselor in early September. Must be in compliance with District activity policies and the organization’s constitution and by-laws.
Cost: $20 annual dues
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Olympic Weightlifting

Olympic weightlifting consists of tw types of lifts: the snatch, and the clean and jerk. Both are overhead lifts and involve a full body range of motion. The goal is to lift maximum weight at a rapid speed using a barbell. Olympic weightlifting will improve core strength, flexibility, balance, quickness, and overall athleticism. You won’t get big and bulky. Olympic lifters have bodies closer to that of a gymnast than a bodybuilder.

Adviser(s):   Jim Irwin
Where to go for more info:   C339 or weight room
Season:   Our High School Season is winter, but some athletes may qualify for and wish to participate in meets all year long at the local, National and occasionally international level.
When activity takes place:   Daily after school
Competitions:   3 – 4 meets and 1 state championship meet. Meets will be on weekends.
Eligibility requirements:   All athletes must become a member of USA Weightlifting prior to the first competition. The USA Weightlifting membership is good for the rest of the season, including all local, national and international competitions for 1 year.
Cost:   TBD
Lettering Opportunities:   Yes
Needed Equipment:   Workout clothes, tennis shoes, and a singlet are all that are necessary. A weightlifting belt, wrist wraps and knee sleeves are nice to have for added safety and enhance performance. Some years the athletes want to order team sweatshirts, t-shirts, etc.

Opera Club

The Opera Club attends weekend performances of the Minnesota Opera at the Ordway Theatre in St. Paul about once a month (five or six performances a season). It also organizes restaurant dinner get-togethers before or after the performances and occasionally organizes meetings/workshops with opera artists. Members provide their own transportation or car pool.

Adviser(s): Mark Mertens
Where to go for more info: Room 234/ Mark_Mertens@Rdale.org / 763-504-8860
Season: November - May
When activity takes place: Weekends
Eligibility requirements: 10th-12th grade, interest in music or theatre
Average number of members: 50
Cost or needed equipment: About $20 per performance
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Relay For Life

Relay For Life is a team fundraising cancer walk event where team members take turns walking around a track. The event is 12 hours in length to signify that cancer never sleeps. There are many fun events that happen all night during the relay. The Relay For Life committee plans all year for the event in May. The event is held at Cooper High School in early May and runs from 6pm to 6am.

When activity takes place: 1st semester meetings every other week and 2nd semester meetings are weekly, after school for meetings, fundraising and some weekends. Event is held the 3rd weekend in May.
Adviser(s): Katherine Opel & Leah Weisjahn
Where to go for more info: Katherine_Opel@Rdale.org / 763-504-8935 | Leah_Weisjahn@Rdale.org / 753-504-8740
Season: All school year (with event held in May)
When activity takes place: 1st semester meetings every other week and 2nd semester meetings are weekly, after school for meetings, fundraising and some weekends
Competitions/performances: Event is held the 3rd weekend in May
Eligibility requirements: Interest and commitment
Average number of members: 6 - 12 members are on the planning committee
Cost or needed equipment: None but time for fundraising is a MUST
Lettering Opportunities: No

Speech Team/Drama

Students on the Speech and Drama Team act and perform in one of 13 different categories as either a single person or two-person group. Categories range from scripted plays, performing portions of a book, poetry, original written scripts and much more. Students prepare a 10-minute script and perform it for a small group of students and a judge ranks student on their performance. Speech and Drama is a MSHSL (Minnesota State High School League) sponsored activity in which students compete at local tournaments and Section Tournaments to qualify for the State or National Tournament. With 13 categories, both serious and humorous, there is a script for every student.

Adviser(s): Richard Brynteson
Where to go for more info: Athletic/Activities office / rbrynteson@brynteson.info
Season: Spring (March - May)
When activity takes place: After school twice a week (sign up for practice times that work for you)
Competitions/performances: Weekly
Eligibility requirements: Meet MSHSL eligibility requirements
Cost or needed equipment: $110 participation fee
Average number of members: 25
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Step Team

Step Team performs at the Sno-Daze pep fest, basketball games and community events.

Adviser(s): MaRaye Mickey-Brocks
Where to go for more info: maraye_mickey-brocks@rdale.org / 763-504-8725
Season: October - April
When activity takes place: Practices are after school
Eligibility requirements: Compliance with MSHSL eligibility rules and District activity policies.
Average number of members: 15 - 25
Cost or needed equipment: $110 participation fee
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Student Activities Board (SAB)

SAB is involved in planning Homecoming, Sno-Daze, and Prom, along with other school activities as requested.

Advisor: TBD
Where to go for more info:
Season: All year ( September - June)
When activity takes place: Varies throughout the year with 3 major events-Homecoming, Sno-Daze and Prom
Eligibility requirements: None
Average number of members: Approximately 20

Student Council

The student council is a student run organization. They are the official communication between students, school staff, and administration. Student concerns are addressed, and new initiatives are implemented. Student activities and service projects are the focus of this group.

Adviser(s): Stephanie Trump
Where to go for more info: Room 207/ Stephanie_Trump@Rdale.org / 763-504-8857
Season: All school year
When activity takes place: All year, during Advisory - must be pre registered
Eligibility requirements: Open to all interested students upon accepted applications
Average number of members: Approximately 20
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Student Media Club

Students produce podcasts, blog posts, Armstrong TV, short films and TED talks. Students and advisers meet weekly to brainstorm ideas and work on production.

Adviser(s): Mark Daniel
Where to go for more info: Media Center / Mark_Daniel@Rdale.org / 763-504-8812Season: All school year
When activity takes place: Weekly in the Media Center
Eligibility requirements: Interest and commitment
Average number of members: Unlimited
Cost or needed equipment: $110 participation fee

Table Top Club

Table Top Club activities are determined by the club members. Dungeons and Dragons has been the most popular, but other board games, card games or strategy games are welcome.

Adviser(s): Nathan Hakes
Where to go for more info: Room 182/ Nathan_Hakes@Rdale.org / 763-504-8925
Season: November - May
When activity takes place: Wednesdays - 2:10 – 3:45
Eligibility requirements: None
Average number of members: 12- 20
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Weightlifting / Weight Training

The use of Olympic weight training, bodybuilding, cross training, and sport specific programs for the development of muscular body weight, strength, and explosive power and agility in order to improve overall athleticism. Weightlifting is also #1 in injury prevention.

Adviser(s): Jim Irwin
Where to go for more info: Athletic/Activities Office
Season: All year (September-June)
When activity takes place: Monday - Thursday, 2:30-4:00 p.m.
Eligibility requirements: None
Cost or needed equipment: Athletic attire
Lettering Opportunities: Yes