Some of the best love stories begin when you least expect them. For North Dakota State University athletes Avery Koenen and Trey Drake, theirs began with a shared connection to Bison athletics, an unexpected introduction, and a journey that would eventually lead them to one very special question.
Now, the NDSU women’s basketball standout and Bison football quarterback are preparing for a new chapter together: their spring 2027 wedding at Pines White, one of two beautiful wedding venues at The Pines Weddings & Events near Fargo, North Dakota.
And while both are familiar with big moments on the court and field, this next one might just be their favorite yet.
Photography: Dynamic Studios | Dress: Your Day by Nicole | Suit: Halberstadt’s Clothing
Long before wedding plans and engagement photos, Avery and Trey’s paths crossed in a way neither might have expected.
On July 11, 2022, both appeared on Hot Mic with Dom Izzo as future NDSU athletes. Avery, a basketball recruit from Montevideo, Minnesota, and Trey, a quarterback recruit from Jamestown, New York, were preparing to begin their respective journeys with the Bison.
What started as an introduction through a local sports show eventually became something much more meaningful. As their college journeys unfolded in Fargo, their connection grew beyond their shared athletic backgrounds. By August 2023, their friendship was developing into a relationship, beginning a new chapter alongside their lives as student-athletes.
It’s a fitting beginning for two people whose paths brought them to North Dakota State for sports, but who found something even more lasting along the way.
For Avery and Trey, athletics have been a significant part of their lives, and both have made their mark while representing North Dakota State University.
Avery, a forward for the NDSU women’s basketball team, has built an impressive collegiate career. Her 2025–2026 season included being named Summit League Player of the Year, Summit League Defensive Player of the Year, and earning Associated Press All-America Honorable Mention honors. She also helped lead the Bison women’s basketball program to its first Summit League regular-season championship, making her part of a memorable chapter in NDSU athletics.
Trey, meanwhile, brought his own athletic background to Fargo. Originally from Jamestown, New York, he joined the Bison football program after an accomplished high school career that included multiple championships and school passing records. As a quarterback at NDSU, Trey has continued developing within a program known for its competitive tradition and commitment to teamwork.
Different sports, different schedules, and different paths to Fargo, but one shared experience that has become an important part of their story. Between practices, games, classes, and everything that comes with being collegiate athletes, Avery and Trey have built a relationship alongside the demands of competing at the Division I level.
And now, they’re preparing for a milestone that goes well beyond the scoreboard.
For many NDSU fans, Avery and Trey are familiar faces representing the green and gold. But beyond their athletic accomplishments is a couple preparing to build a life together. Their engagement marked an exciting new chapter in a relationship that began before either had officially started their collegiate athletic career at NDSU.
The same university that brought them together has become part of their love story, making their upcoming wedding especially meaningful. There’s something special about looking back at the place where it all began and realizing how much life has changed along the way.
From their early days as incoming Bison athletes to celebrating their engagement, Avery and Trey have shared a journey filled with growth, milestones, and memories. And their next big moment is already on the calendar.
In spring 2027, Avery and Trey will exchange their vows at Pines White at The Pines Weddings & Events, bringing their love story to a beautiful new setting just outside Fargo.
Known for its bright, welcoming atmosphere, charming barn-inspired architecture, and picturesque outdoor ceremony space, Pines White offers a setting where couples can celebrate surrounded by the people who matter most. With its signature grand entrance doors, spacious reception area, and scenic countryside surroundings, Pines White is designed for moments that feel both intimate and unforgettable.
For Avery and Trey, the venue will become part of a new collection of memories, ones that celebrate not their accomplishments as athletes, but the life they’re building together.
Ahead of their wedding, the couple stepped in front of the camera for a styled shoot at The Pines, capturing a glimpse of the excitement surrounding their upcoming celebration. The resulting images offer a beautiful preview of their next chapter, blending their natural connection with the timeless atmosphere of Pines White.
At The Pines, we believe the most meaningful celebrations begin with the people at the heart of them. Since opening in 2018, we’ve had the privilege of welcoming couples with unique stories, backgrounds, and visions for their wedding days.
For Avery and Trey, their story includes years of dedication to athletics, an unexpected introduction through the NDSU community, and a relationship that has grown alongside their college experiences.
Their wedding will be an opportunity to celebrate everything that brought them to this point, while looking ahead to everything still to come. We’re honored they’ve chosen Pines White for such a meaningful milestone and can’t wait to welcome them, their families, and loved ones for a celebration of their next chapter.
Because some moments are bigger than the game. From game day to wedding day. Built for the big moments.
Every love story deserves a setting that feels just right. Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration or a grand wedding surrounded by family and friends, The Pines Weddings & Events offers two distinctive venues, Pines White and Pines Black, designed to bring your vision to life.
Ready to start planning your own Fargo-area wedding? Schedule a private tour of The Pines and discover the possibilities for your big day.
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Award-winning property near Fargo, ND, offering two luxury year-round venues with modern amenities: Pines Black & Pines White. Specializing in Elopements, Micro Weddings, Small Weddings, and Full-Day Weddings, The Pines combines elegance and functionality to create unforgettable celebrations. Our modern industrial barn-inspired and rustic chic venues are set against picturesque North Dakota landscapes, providing the perfect backdrop for every season.