The Dickinson Mavericks wrapped up their 2025 season with a determined effort against the top-ranked Minot North Sentinels, despite having already been eliminated from the Class AA State Tournament. In a spirited display, the Mavericks fell 22-7, but their head coach, Dawson McGlothlin, praised the team’s effort and commitment to their seniors.
“It’s a tough spot to be in. But we just told the boys, do it for the seniors. And for the seniors, do it for the guy next to you,” McGlothlin said. He expressed pride in the players’ dedication, noting that even with the knowledge that their season was over, they gave their all on the field.
The Mavericks finished the regular season with a record of 2-7 overall and 1-4 in Western Dakota Association play. McGlothlin emphasized that this challenging season serves as a foundation for future improvement, highlighting the culture change underway within the program.
“They were a great group to start this program’s culture change that we’re trying to do here,” he said. “I couldn’t be more proud of those guys. They understood that it was going to be a challenge, and every single one of them stepped up.”
Senior wide receiver Dylan Glasser echoed McGlothlin’s sentiments, stating that the coaches continually stress the importance of effort. “We just tried to come out here and give it our all for the last game,” he said.
Defensive Strength Shines Amidst Loss
The Mavericks’ defense demonstrated resilience during the match, successfully limiting the Sentinels to just five yards passing. Senior Devin Heindt remarked on the importance of setting an example for younger players, saying, “We just wanted to convey that message to the younger folks and get them a little head start on their season next season.”
The game began with both teams struggling to gain momentum, as they exchanged three-and-out possessions. The Sentinels eventually struck first, with quarterback Brayden Bilkren connecting with Tyler Kippen for a five-yard touchdown pass. Following a two-point conversion, Minot North led 8-0 early in the first quarter.
A critical turnover by the Mavericks allowed the Sentinels to extend their lead. After recovering a fumble, the Sentinels marched down the field and scored again on a seven-yard carry, taking a commanding 16-0 lead.
Despite the challenges, the Mavericks found their rhythm, culminating in a 12-play, 52-yard drive in the fourth quarter. This possession marked a significant moment for the team, as they moved deep into Minot North territory. Ultimately, Dickinson’s lone touchdown came just under five minutes left in the game, with junior quarterback Nate Stevenson scoring on a two-yard rush, narrowing the gap to 22-7. Stevenson finished the game having completed 15 of 32 passes for 213 yards.
Emotional Farewell for Seniors
As the final whistle blew, emotions ran high among the senior class, which consisted of 12 players. For many, this game marked the last time they would don the Maverick jersey, a bittersweet conclusion to their high school football journey.
“I had the honor of coaching a lot of them when they were sophomores,” McGlothlin reflected. “I’m honored and privileged to get to say that this was the first group of boys I got to coach as a head coach, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world regardless of the record.”
The Mavericks’ season may not have ended with a win, but the lessons learned and the spirit displayed may well shape the future of the program as they move forward. As the players depart, they carry with them the hope and determination that the upcoming seasons will build upon the foundation laid during this challenging year.
