Our Athletes

Robert Oberst

Renowned American strongman competitor known as “The American Monster,” who competed at the highest level of strength athletics and made multiple finals appearances at the World’s Strongest Man competitions. He held the American log lift record and earned podium finishes at major events including America’s Strongest Man and international Giants Live contests, showcasing his powerful overhead strength and competitive grit. Beyond the arena, Oberst has also appeared on television and built a strong presence in strength culture, inspiring fans with his training insights and larger-than-life personality.

Taco Dowler

Standout college football wide receiver for the Montana State Bobcats, known for his big-play ability and dynamic presence on offense and special teams. A former Montana Gatorade Player of the Year in high school, he’s earned All-Big Sky honors and played a key role in Montana State’s 2026 FCS national championship title with clutch catches and consistent production. His junior season has featured over 1,000 receiving yards and recognition on preseason All-Conference teams, highlighting his impact at the FCS level.

Shelby Neal

Elite American CrossFit athlete and coach who has competed multiple times at the CrossFit Games after rising through the teen divisions to the adult stage, finishing in the top 20 worldwide at the 2023 and 2024 Games. She blends her competitive drive with academic rigor, having balanced engineering studies and a professional career while training and coaching at 12th State CrossFit. Known for her resilience and work ethic, Neal’s journey reflects years of dedication to both performance and community in the sport.

Tanner Conner

Professional football tight end who entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Miami Dolphins after a standout college career at Idaho State, where he earned first-team All-Big Sky honors as a wide receiver. During his time with the Dolphins, he worked his way onto the active roster, appeared in multiple regular-season games, and recorded several receptions while contributing on special teams. Known for his athleticism and versatility in making the transition from wideout to tight end, Conner’s journey reflects resilience and growth at the professional level.

Colten Mertens

American CrossFit athlete and Iowa farmer known for his remarkable strength and competitive tenacity in the world of elite functional fitness. He’s competed multiple times at the CrossFit Games—achieving his best finish of 18th in 2023—and in 2025 he was crowned the worldwide champion of the CrossFit Open, showcasing his rise among the sport’s top athletes. Growing up working on his family’s farm forged his legendary work ethic and resilience, traits that have defined his journey from rural beginnings to the global CrossFit stage.

Dax Whitney

College baseball pitcher for the Oregon State Beavers, known for his towering presence on the mound and dynamic strikeout ability. A standout at Blackfoot High School, he was named the Gatorade Idaho Baseball Player of the Year after a dominant senior season and went on to earn Freshman All‑America honors while helping Oregon State reach the College World Series with a strong rotation performance. Recognized as a preseason All‑American and named to the Golden Spikes Award watch list, Whitney’s combination of power pitching and consistency marks him as one of college baseball’s rising stars.

Andy Whittier

American athlete from who transformed his competitive spirit from the football field into the high‑speed winter sport of skeleton racing. After starring as a walk‑on and earning a starting role at Idaho State University, he devoted himself to skeleton, training at the Olympic Training Center and capturing titles such as the U.S. National Push Championships and the North American Cup overall title. With his sights set on representing Team USA on the world stage and pursuing Olympic competition, Whittier’s path embodies resilience, adaptability, and relentless drive.

Landon Helms

Elite American track and field multis athlete and decathlete competing for Boise State University, known for his versatility across ten events and explosive pole vault ability. A decorated prep standout from Emmett, Idaho, he was the Idaho Gatorade Boys Track & Field Player of the Year and has earned Second Team All‑America honors at the NCAA Championships, set school records, and won the Mountain West decathlon title while posting some of the highest multi‑event scores in Boise State history. Helms balances his athletic achievements with academic goals and personal pursuits, embodying resilience and excellence on and off the track.

Jordan Cooke

Quarterback for the Idaho State Bengals football team, known for his strong arm, dual‑threat playmaking, and leadership on offense. During the 2025 season, he threw for over 3,000 yards and accounted for multiple touchdowns both through the air and on the ground, earning Big Sky Conference honorable mention while leading Idaho State to key wins. Cooke’s performance ranks him among the program’s all‑time leaders in passing yards and completions, showcasing his impact on the field and importance to the Bengals’ offensive success.

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