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RollDiggs

by Paul Panisko

Season 2

Frontier Conference Tournament Preview – Championship Week in Butte

The Frontier Conference Basketball Tournament returns to Butte this week, and RollDiggs brings together some of the voices and minds who know the game — and this community — best. In this special tournament preview episode, we’re joined by Josh Margolis, reporter for NBC Montana, and Butte basketball icon John Thatcher, whose more than 55 years of coaching have helped shape generations of players in Southwest Montana. They’re joined by Montana Tech Women’s Head Coach Jeff Graham and Men’s Head Coach Adam Hiatt to break down tournament storylines, key matchups, postseason preparation, and what makes championship basketball at the Butte Civic Center such a special experience. From media perspective to coaching insight and decades of local basketball history, this episode captures the excitement, pressure, and pride surrounding Frontier Conference tournament week. 🏀 March basketball is here — and Butte is ready.

Levi Torgerson: Records, Returns, and a Rare Path

On this episode of RollDiggs, we sit down with Levi Torgerson, one of the most dynamic athletes in Montana Tech history. A native of Great Falls, Levi’s journey at Tech is unique — he began his collegiate career as a member of the Oredigger basketball program before becoming a two-sport athlete and eventually emerging as one of the most electric playmakers in NAIA football. During a historic 2025 season, Torgerson earned AP All-America honors after leading the NAIA and setting Montana Tech single-season records with 103 receptions and 1,370 receiving yards. His impact extended well beyond the passing game, as he led the nation in punt return yards, ranked among the national leaders in both punt and kick return averages, and scored two return touchdowns in the season opener against No. 5 Montana Western. Levi set 10 school records during the year, was named Frontier Conference East Division Player of the Year, and earned multiple All-America and All-Conference honors as both a receiver and specialist. His contributions helped propel Montana Tech to a program-record 12 wins, a Frontier Conference championship, and a No. 3 seed in the NAIA Football Championship Series. We talk about his uncommon path from the basketball court to the football field, the work behind his record-breaking seasons, and what it meant to help lead the Orediggers to one of the best years in program history.

The Road to Butte: A conversation with Chancellor Johnny MacLean.

On this episode of RollDiggs we sit down with Chancellor Johnny MacLean to talk about the path that led him to Montana, and ultimately Butte. Chancellor MacLean shares his personal journey, his love of the mountains that are now home, and the experiences that shaped his leadership along the way. We also dive into the importance of mentorship, why investing in people matters, and how guidance and relationships play a critical role in building strong communities and futures. A conversation about place, purpose, and leadership. Below is the link to watch the Chancellor's Convocation from October 14, 2025.

Big Stakes & Big Support: A.D. Matt Stepan on What's Next

In this episode of RollDiggs, we sit down with Montana Tech Athletic Director Matt Stepan to talk about a huge stretch for Oredigger Athletics. We preview the upcoming Dig Deep event, dive into volleyball and football playoffs, and explore what makes this time of year so exciting and so important for our student athletes, fans, and the future of the program. To read more about the Dig Deep event click HERE. To purchase tickets and/or ping pong balls click HERE.

Hayden Diekhans: Small Town Roots, Big Time Impact

This week on RollDiggs, we sit down with Montana Tech senior standout Hayden Diekhans — the reigning Frontier Conference Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and Second-Team All-American. From his small-town roots in Geraldine and Fort Benton to becoming one of the most fearsome players in Oredigger history, Hayden shares his journey, his approach to leadership, and what this senior season means to him. Don’t miss this conversation with one of the toughest defenders and most respected leaders in the Frontier Conference.

Every Man, Every Time, All Day- With Wacy Deegan

RollDiggs Podcast – “Building Oredigger Football Culture: EMETAD with Wacy Deegan” In this episode of RollDiggs, we sit down with Wacy Deegan to dive into the EMETAD Club, a cornerstone of Oredigger Football’s culture. Wacy shares the story behind the club, what it means to the team, and how it’s shaping the identity of Montana Tech Football both on and off the field. From building accountability to strengthening brotherhood, EMETAD is more than just a slogan—it’s the standard. #RollDiggs #OrediggerFootball #EMETAD

Fall Camp & Forward Progress- with Coach Samson

On this episode of RollDiggs, we catch up with Montana Tech Head Football Coach Kyle Samson, who’s entering his sixth season leading the Orediggers. With fall camp in full swing, Coach Samson gives us a look behind the scenes at how the team is shaping up, what he’s seeing from veterans and newcomers alike, and how leadership, tempo, and toughness are setting the tone for 2025. It’s all about preparation, culture, and building momentum toward another big season in the Frontier Conference. Strap in—it’s football time in Butte. #RollDiggs #OrediggerFootball

Coach Brian Solomon -Fourteen Seasons and Still Digging

On this episode of RollDiggs, we sit down with Montana Tech Head Volleyball Coach Brian Solomon, who’s gearing up for his 14th season at the helm. From building a powerhouse program to navigating the highs and lows of competition, Coach Solomon shares what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and why he’s more fired up than ever for the season ahead. We talk team culture, new Frontier Conference opponents, and the excitement of a season packed with more home games than ever before. Dig in—this one’s full of insight, energy, and a few good sideline stories. You can find the volleyball schedule and purchase season tickets here : https://godiggers.com/

Senior Spotlight with Coach Kyle Samson

In this special bonus episode of RollDiggs, Montana Tech head football coach Kyle Samson sits down to talk in depth about the seniors who have shaped the Oredigger Program. Coach Samson shares personal stories, leadership moments, and the impact each senior has had on and off the field, from the locker room to game day and everywhere in between. It's a meaningful look at the heart of Oredigger Football and the players who've helped build the standard. A must-listen for fans, families, and anyone who loves this team. #RollDiggs #OrediggerFootball #SeniorSpotlight

Big Sky Volleyball Challenge Preview with Coach Solomon

In this special bonus episode of RollDiggs, we sit down with Montana Tech Head Volleyball Coach Brian Solomon to preview the upcoming Big Sky Volleyball Challenge. Coach Solomon gives us a quick rundown of the teams in attendance, a look at the weekend schedule, and shares how the Orediggers are feeling as they step into tournament play. It’s a fast-paced, inside look at one of the premier early-season events—and how Montana Tech stacks up heading into the challenge. 🏐 Tune in and get ready for a big weekend of volleyball! #RollDiggs #OrediggerVolleyball #BigSkyChallenge

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