Senior safety McHale Korf of the Concordia Cobbers is navigating an exciting new chapter in his life as he prepares for the fall football season while embracing fatherhood. On August 12, 2023, Korf and his girlfriend, Ryley Paulson, welcomed their daughter, Willow, into the world, marking a significant milestone just as the Cobbers began their preparations for the season.
As the Cobbers gear up for their season opener against Mayville State on September 6 at Jake Christiansen Stadium, Korf is set to make his mark on the field while balancing his new responsibilities as a father. This game will not only be the Cobbers’ first night game at the stadium but also Korf’s first opportunity to play with his daughter in attendance. “I think it’s going to add a little more of a motivational piece,” Korf remarked. “You’re doing this for her and for the memories of her.”
Korf, who stands at 6 feet and weighs 200 pounds, is also pursuing a degree in healthcare leadership. He is committed to balancing his academic responsibilities, parental duties, and football preparation, particularly as the Cobbers face a new challenge with the Comets adopting a triple-option offense this season. “It’s been crazy,” Korf stated, reflecting on the changes in his life. “It’s been some of the best days of my life.”
The head coach of the Cobbers, Terry Horan, praised Korf for his ability to manage the demands of being a student-athlete while embracing fatherhood. “He’s super, super mature,” Horan noted. “He’s handled it with grace. His life is super organized.”
Korf’s journey has not been without its challenges. He missed a significant portion of his sophomore season in 2022 due to a knee injury but has returned for a fifth season, eager to finish his college career on a high note. “Right now I’m really living the good of it and that’s being able to compete another year and getting that extra year of eligibility,” he expressed.
The day after Willow’s birth, Korf rejoined his teammates for a Cobbers football meeting, where he received a standing ovation, underscoring the strong bond within the team. “It’s definitely a type of love feeling that these guys are my brothers and they’re going to be there for me,” Korf said.
Plans are in place for Paulson to bring Willow to the season opener, with Korf looking forward to capturing postgame photos with his daughter. He acknowledges that fatherhood can be demanding, yet he finds motivation in his family. “Sometimes nights get exhausting, but when you’re able to look into her eyes and really see what you’re doing in life has a purpose to it and use her as motivation in your life, it’s helped me get through some tough times,” Korf shared.
Heading into the game against Mayville State, Korf has accumulated 76 career tackles over 22 games. He previously played quarterback and cornerback in high school, and he is excited to apply his experience as the Cobbers strategize against the Comets’ new offensive scheme. “It’s kind of cool to see how you game plan and scheme for an offense you used to run,” he noted.
Horan emphasized Korf’s importance to the team, particularly against an opponent that relies heavily on discipline. “He’s fundamentally sound, extremely bright and an incredible leader,” Horan said. “He’s kind of the wily veteran on the block. It’s certainly nice to have his leadership back in our secondary this year.”
As Korf navigates the successful balancing act of football and fatherhood, he finds solace in the moments spent with Willow. “It takes your mind off some things too,” he explained. “It really helps to take some time and take care of my daughter and have some time to myself, too. … I’ve really been living in the moment.”
With the season opener approaching, Korf is ready to showcase not just his skills on the field, but the joys of fatherhood that accompany them.