Comet Nation Sends the Girls to State in Unforgettable Pepfest
The crowd rose to the sound of the Comet fight song. A sea of red and white filled the bleachers as students, teachers, parents, and young Comets stood shoulder to shoulder, clapping. At the center of it all sat the Hillcrest Comets girls basketball team, the group of young women whose remarkable season has carried them all the way to the Minnesota State Tournament. The pepfest wasn’t simply a send-off. It was a moment of unity, where the entire school community paused to celebrate what these players have accomplished and what they represent.
For the youngest students in the crowd, it was something even more powerful: a glimpse of what it means to be a Comet. Students waved to players who had spoken in the chapel, aided them during the lunch hour, and worshipped with them in church. The youngest Comets looked up in awe at a historic team on a run that has united the entire Hillcrest community. What makes the moment even more remarkable is the size of the school. For a program like Hillcrest to reach the final eight teams in the state tournament is a testament not only to talent but also to dedication, teamwork, and a culture that pushes students to pursue excellence.
President Luke Fiskness reminded the crowd just how significant the moment is. “Think about it,” he said. “A school of our size is making two state runs. That’s something special.” The President started, his remarks drawing attention to the football team's state run months earlier. Now, he highlighted the girls’ basketball team. “It shows the talent and dedication of our students and a community that believes in this place and supports the work God is doing here.”
He also reminded younger students that the girls on the team represent more than athletic success. “I want you to know, especially you young ladies, that you can look up to this girls’ basketball team,” Fiskness said. “Not only are they really good at basketball, they love Jesus, and they’re also really good students. They work hard in the classroom, and they work hard on the basketball court.”
One of the highlights of the pepfest came through a special video message from Hillcrest alumnus and basketball strategist Reid Ouse, who joined the celebration from Florida. Ouse, a respected basketball mind and proud Comet alum, spoke directly to the players about the moment they have earned. “I’m super pumped for everything that you’ve accomplished,” Ouse said. “Congratulations on making it to the state tournament. You have alumni from all over the country, frankly, all over the world, following what you’re doing right now.”
He reminded the team that the pressure they feel heading into the tournament is actually an opportunity. “Pressure is a privilege,” Ouse said. “You guys have earned it. You belong. You’re supposed to be here.”
Then he challenged the team to adopt the mindset that defines great players. “So many players say, ‘I’ve worked my whole life for this opportunity, I can’t screw it up.’ But great players say, ‘I’ve worked my whole life for this opportunity. I’ve never been more prepared.’ You are prepared. Trust your teammates. Trust your coaches. Stay together and go bring home the trophy.” The gym erupted in cheers as his message ended with a rallying cry: “Let’s get it.”
Another video greeting came from Ellie Colbeck, the Fergus Falls Otters standout and current South Dakota State University player, who encouraged the team and celebrated their remarkable run. Having one of the region’s top basketball players cheering on the Comets added another layer of excitement to the moment.
Throughout the pepfest, the spirit of Hillcrest was unmistakable. Students from every grade packed the gym. Younger students stared wide-eyed at the players they admired. The crowd laughed, cheered, and sang as the team soaked in the support.
Fiskness pointed out something that has made this team special all season: their joy. “I don’t know if you noticed,” he said, “but after the section championship game, they were dancing and singing while everyone else was warming up. That’s the joy they have. Let’s carry that joy down to the Cities.” That joy has become one of this team's defining traits. Whether celebrating a big play or encouraging a teammate, the Comets have played the game with energy and unity.
The pepfest concluded with one of the day's most powerful moments. President Fiskness invited the entire crowd to stretch out their hands as the community prayed over the team before their trip to the state tournament.
“Dear Jesus,” he prayed, “we thank you for your presence here today in the midst of this fun pep rally. We pray for safety in travel, opportunities to proclaim the gospel on the court and off the court, and for chances to represent not only our school but You as they play.” He prayed for a strong defense, an excellent offense, and the possibility of a championship, but most importantly, for opportunities to share hope and faith with those they meet along the way.
In that moment, the pepfest became more than a celebration. It became a sending.
The Road to State
Now, Comet Nation turns its attention to Minneapolis as the team prepares for the opening game of the state tournament.
The Comets will tip off their state run at 1:00 p.m. Thursday at Maturi Pavilion against NRHEG.
How to Follow the Comets
Game: Thursday, 1:00 PM vs NRHEG
Location: Maturi Pavilion, Minneapolis
Tickets & Parking: Available through MSHSL GoFan
Streaming: NSPN and Channel 45
Radio: 97.7 FM or the Fergus Now App
The fan themes are set for the weekend:
Thursday: Red Out
Friday: Red Out
Saturday: Red Out