From 1998-2000, Roman Evans was one of the most dynamic athletes to have worn an Augustana uniform, both on the basketball court and football field. The 1998-99 season was a memorable one as Evans garnered the North Central Conference Newcomer and Defensive Player of the Year awards, along with earning All-Conference recognition. His 106 steals that season currently sit atop the Augustana record book for a single season, while his 182 assists rank seventh. He also led the conference in both categories that year.
His 74 steals in 1999-00 rank fourth for a single season, along with his 177 assists that currently stand at eighth. Overall, Romans’ 180 career steals rank fifth in school history, along with his 359 career assists that are tied for 11th place. For his final year of eligibility (2000), Evans joined the Augustana Football team where he led the Vikings with six interceptions, one return for a touchdown, and was named to the All-Lutheran Football Team.
Roman always enjoyed the tough conference matchups, especially against South Dakota State (basketball) and North Dakota (football).
“I’ll never forget beating UND in their last football game at their outdoor arena!”
The most memorable coaches during his time at Augustana were Jim Heinitz & Mike Friedel (football) and Perry Ford (basketball). Ford was the reason why Roman ended up in Sioux Falls.
Roman was also appreciative of Head Athletic Trainer Brian Gerry and his staff.
“They always worked really hard and were always very friendly. They also took care of us so that we could get back on the field as soon as possible.”
Since his time at Augustana, Roman has been a claims professional and a high school basketball official, as well as a volunteer youth basketball coach.
Roman and his wife, Kelly, live in Dallas/Ft. Worth area and are the parents of two daughters, Kiyah and Rilyn.
