For Joshua Slusher, the road to collegiate athletics hasn’t been a straight line—it’s been a journey shaped by multiple sports, influential mentors, and a growing understanding of where his strengths truly lie.
Slusher’s athletic story began more than a decade ago, though not in the way many might expect. “I played football back in 2015,” he said, recalling his earliest introduction to the sport. But at the time, it didn’t quite click. Instead, he shifted his focus to soccer, a move that would ultimately play a significant role in his future.
“I fell in love with playing soccer,” Slusher explained. For years, the sport became his primary outlet, allowing him to develop footwork, discipline, and a competitive edge. That chapter of his life was deeply influenced by his coach, Dusty Park, whose impact extended far beyond the field. When Park passed away, it left a lasting impression on Slusher and ultimately became a turning point in his athletic journey.
Encouraged by a close friend, Slusher returned to football in eighth grade—a decision that would set the course for his high school career.
That return proved to be a turning point. “We ended up winning the championship in our league,” he said. From that moment on, football became a central part of his identity, carrying him through four years at the high school level.
A true utility player, Slusher took pride in his versatility on the field. “I’m a running back, linebacker, and kicker,” he said with a laugh when asked about his positions. Rarely coming off the field, he embraced the physical and mental demands of playing on both sides of the ball, while also contributing on special teams.
But as his football career progressed, so did his understanding of what he wanted at the next level.
“When you start thinking about college, it’s what I wanted to do,” Slusher said. “I love playing sports. Everybody has the same intention. It’s the same drive.” For him, the appeal of collegiate athletics went beyond competition. “It’s a brotherhood,” he added. “You don’t have to be there for sports, but you choose to be. I got the opportunity, and I’m so grateful for it.”
That opportunity ultimately led him to Mayville State University, where he has been recruited to continue his football career at the collegiate level.
The recruiting process itself unfolded naturally. Rather than aggressively seeking out programs, Slusher found that opportunities came to him. College coaches from Mayville State visited campus during basketball season, meeting with seniors and beginning conversations that would eventually turn into something more concrete.
“They came out in November,” Slusher said. “We met with the offensive coordinator, and we just kept in contact.” Those early conversations led to a return visit in February—and ultimately, an offer.
While Slusher’s high school role showcased his versatility, his future at the collegiate level will be more specialized. “I’m just kicking,” he said, smiling. The decision makes sense given his soccer background, which helped him develop the precision and power needed for the position. “I’m excited to just kick,” he added. “You get hit less.”
Behind Slusher’s development is a long list of coaches who helped shape both his skill set and his mindset. He credits his early introduction to football to Coach Dean Capron, who provided a positive environment even when Slusher wasn’t initially sold on the sport. Later, during his eighth-grade year, he was guided by Thomas Walker, along with Steven Sheppard and Derrick Holzer, who played a critical role in building both his confidence and conditioning.
“Steven Sheppard was there for everything,” Slusher said. “He was our conditioning coach, he was at every practice.” Those early influences helped establish the work ethic and team-first mentality that would carry into his high school years.
More recently, Slusher points to the impact of Coach Toby Henry, whose arrival marked a shift in how he approached the game. “He changed everything for me,” Slusher said. “I figured out my best attribute is my brain.” While others may rely on physical ability, Slusher found his strength in understanding the game at a deeper level.
“Henry expanded that,” he said. “Now I understand it way more at a higher level.”
That mental approach also carried over beyond football, particularly during the basketball season when Coach Henry took over the program. Slusher noted that the renewed emphasis on enjoyment and effort made a noticeable impact. “It’s not just about the game, it’s about having fun too,” he said. “We don’t have crazy talent—we just work hard and we have fun. And I feel like that’s really what it’s about.”
Other influences helped shape him in different ways. He credits Coach Mike Colucci with instilling toughness, even if that approach isn’t always easy. “Every team needs a guy like that,” Slusher said. “I feel like I’m a better person because of him.”
Beyond athletics, mentors like Steve Nygaard also played a role in his development, offering guidance that extended well beyond the field. “You can ask him about anything,” Slusher said. “And he cares.”
At home, his family has been a constant source of support and motivation throughout his journey. “My mom, she’s always there for everything. And my dad… yeah,” Slusher said. He also credited his older sister, Adryanna, for helping shape his perspective. “She’s been a pain in the butt, but I love her,” he said with a smile. “I’ve learned a lot just by watching her—honestly more from her making certain mistakes than having to make them myself.”
As he prepares to head off to college—nearly a two-day drive from home—Slusher knows the distance will be an adjustment, especially when it comes to being away from his mom. “She’s going to miss me,” he said with a laugh, acknowledging the challenge of being so far from home.
Slusher’s athletic background extends well beyond football. He has competed in track and field since middle school, played basketball since childhood, and spent nearly a decade on the soccer field—much of that time under the guidance of Dusty Park, whose influence continues to resonate.
“One thing I always remember him saying is, ‘You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take,’” Slusher said. “You can’t score if you don’t shoot.” That mindset, combined with Park’s care for his players, helped build a foundation that carried into Slusher’s football career. “He cared for everybody at such a high level,” he added.
As he prepares for the transition to college, Slusher already has a clear sense of his long-term goals. While he plans to study sports coaching, he is also interested in subjects like anatomy and how the body works. Ultimately, he hopes to stay connected to athletics in some capacity.
“After college, I want to coach,” he said. “I want to get my foot in the door somewhere.”
That next chapter is approaching quickly. Slusher is set to report for camp in early August, with the option to arrive a few days early to get settled into campus life. He’ll be living in the dorms—and won’t be making the transition alone, as his PVHS teammate Austin Alvarez will be joining him.
“We both got offered at the same time,” he said. “It was almost a no-brainer.” Having that connection provides a sense of comfort as he prepares to move away from home for the first time.
While there’s excitement about what’s ahead, there’s also an understanding of the challenges that come with it. “I’m super excited,” Slusher said. “But realistically, I’m a little scared.” Still, after visiting campus, he feels confident in his decision. “That’s my kind of town, my kind of people,” he said. “It’s awesome up there.”
As he prepares to make the move to college, Slusher carries with him not just the opportunity to compete at the next level, but the lessons, relationships and mindset that shaped his journey along the way. From the influence of his coaches to the support of his family, each step has helped guide him to this moment.
Now, with a new chapter ahead at Mayville State University, Slusher is ready to embrace whatever comes next—grateful for the path that led him there and motivated to make the most of the opportunity in front of him.
“It’s what I was waiting for,” he said.
