Comets Capture Conference Title in Historic Season
The Hillcrest Lutheran Academy Comets are soaring this fall in men’s soccer, marking one of the most memorable seasons since 2015, the last time they topped the Bemidji Lumberjacks in regular-season play. Thursday night at DeLagoon Park, the Comets did it again, defeating Bemidji 1-0 in a hard-fought battle that secured the 2025 Lakes to Prairie Conference title.
Defense and resilience were the hallmarks of this match. From the opening whistle, the Comets flew around the field with physicality and precision, locking down a one-goal lead that came midway through the second half. Senior captain Zane Holmquist set the tone with his leadership and grit, delivering the decisive cross that led to the game’s only score.
The breakthrough moment came 24 minutes into the second half when Holmquist sent a cross from the right side. Junior striker Marco Salasar seized the opportunity, gathering the ball just inside the 18 and firing it into the top right corner of the Lumberjack net. It was a strike fitting of the moment and season, clinical, confident, and clutch.
Hillcrest tallied eight shots on goal to Bemidji’s six, with midfielders showing composure under pressure. Coach Jensen praised his mid-field and defense in the win, noting that Ben Hordnes, Drew Fischer, and Kian Stender all had an excellent game, largely controlling the midfield throughout the game.
The 1-0 victory was more than just another win. It was a statement. It was proof that this Comet team has the same hunger and heart that made 2015 so special, but with their own identity and fire. The defense absorbed every Lumberjack attack, battling for loose balls and staying composed under duress.
The Comets now stand at 10-1-3, heading into their final regular-season match this Saturday at home against Melrose. It’s a fitting backdrop, Senior Day, a doubleheader alongside the Lady Comets, and a chance to honor the upperclassmen whose leadership has propelled Hillcrest to this moment.
As the conference trophy shines with a new year, “2025” etched into the history of Hillcrest soccer, this group looks ahead to playoffs with one clear goal: adding more hardware to the case. The Comets have already made history; now they want to extend their legacy.