FERGUS FALLS, Minn. — The Fergus Falls Hillcrest Comets are on the brink of a historic achievement, seeking their first Minnesota 9-player football state championship since 2001. With a perfect record of 12-0, the Comets will face Hills-Beaver Creek, also undefeated at 12-0, in the state title game at 10 a.m. on November 22, 2023, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
After struggling with a 1-8 record in 2003, the Comets have made a remarkable turnaround. Senior quarterback Ethan Swedberg expressed the significance of reaching this stage: “It’s something special.” The team last appeared in a state title game two decades ago, when they achieved a 37-7 victory against Ada-Borup.
Coach Korey Fry has played a pivotal role in guiding the team back to prominence. “We just kept working and putting in the work as a team,” Swedberg said, reflecting on their journey. The Comets have averaged an impressive 44.7 points per game this season, demonstrating their offensive prowess.
Key Players to Watch
As the Comets prepare for their championship clash, several players stand out as crucial to their success.
Swedberg, a 6-foot-3, 215-pound senior, has been instrumental in Hillcrest’s success. He has thrown for 2,496 yards and rushed for 1,194 yards this season. In the state semifinals against Kittson County Central, he completed 19 of 30 passes for 175 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 66 yards and two touchdowns. Coach Fry describes Swedberg as “the engine to our vehicle” and emphasizes his growth as a player over the years.
Another standout is Berge, a 6-foot-2, 170-pound receiver who has quickly made a name for himself in his first varsity season. He leads the team with 834 receiving yards and has become a vital deep-ball threat. Fry noted, “Ever since he’s been out, he has been a difference-maker on the field for us.”
Senior receiver Drew Fischer is also a key asset. Coming off a strong performance in the semifinals, he caught 12 passes for 100 yards and two touchdowns. With a total of 647 receiving yards this season, he has proven to be a reliable target for Swedberg.
Defensive Strength and Team Unity
On the defensive front, Larby, a 5-foot-10, 265-pound lineman, has been a cornerstone of the Comets’ defense. Starting since his freshman year, he has demonstrated leadership and skill, recording seven tackles, including two for a loss, in the semifinal match. Coach Fry refers to him as “the heart and soul on the line.” Swedberg added, “He’s one of the best linemen in the state” and praised their trust and friendship on the field.
The Comets’ journey to the state championship reflects their resilience and teamwork, emphasizing the importance of hard work and dedication. As they prepare to face Hills-Beaver Creek, the anticipation builds for what could be a defining moment in Hillcrest football history.
