Comets Build Unity in 3-0 Victory

The Hillcrest Comets proved Friday night that soccer is more than a game. In a display of developing unity, the boys’ varsity squad, built from Brazil, Mexico, Norway, and the United States, found their rhythm early and never looked back, defeating the Fergus Falls Otters 3-0.

Just nine minutes in, the crowd stirred when Drew Fischer calmly settled a high ball in the Otter box. With composure, he slipped it wide to Zane Holmquist, who unleashed a left-footed rocket into the net. Three minutes later, Lincoln Nash launched a long throw from midfield. Holmquist controlled, sprinted, and struck again, his second goal before the Otters had settled. As the teams huddled for halftime, the Comets led 2-0.

The second half carried a different tone. Grit, patience, and trust led to the 66th minute, where Nash was fouled hard in the box. The referee pointed to the spot. Holmquist stepped forward, the weight of a hat trick resting on his shoulders. One clean strike later, the ball rippled the net. A smile broke across teammates’ faces, not just for the goal, but for what it represented: the reward of trust and teamwork born from determination and commitment.

Even as the Otters earned a late penalty, Hillcrest’s unity held firm. The shot clanged against the crossbar, off the hands of the Comet’s trusted goalie, Will Selvig. Moments later, the final whistle sealed the 3-0 victory. Behind it all was Hillcrest’s defense, corralled by goalkeeper Will Selvig, a sophomore who quietly earned his second consecutive shutout with ten clutch saves.

Coach praised the backline defense, Kian Stender, Charlie Eggiman, and Caleb Holm, who anchored the Comets with heart and hustle. Their effort showed that while goals grab headlines, unity wins games.

In a few short weeks, the Comets have learned each other’s strengths and weaknesses, how to celebrate a goal, and how to pick each other up when mistakes come. English mixes with Portuguese, Spanish, and Norwegian on the practice field, yet the message is clear: encouragement, resilience, and joy bind them together.

The Comets are now 2-0, with their next challenge set for Thursday at home against Minnewaska.