“I was pleased with the opportunities the Comets created offensivel,” Coach Rod Jensen noted. “We must continue to work on finding the back of the net with the opportunities created!  We have some areas of defensive improvements we can work on.  We did have excellent efforts from midfielder Ben Hordnes and defenders Caleb Holm, Charlie Eggiman, and Silas Haugstvedt.

From the start, the Comets fought for midfield control with the poise of a team that trusts each other. Captain Alexa Ewan directed the flow of the game, guiding midfielders Lauren Markovetz and Danna Rodriguez to create chances for forwards Kaia Fiskness and Isla Frobish. Midway through the first half, defensive captain Paisley Garvin launched a perfectly timed through ball from the back line to find Fiskness, decisive in her run, breaking through the Vikings’ defense and coolly slotting the ball past the keeper to put Hillcrest up 1–0.

The Comets jumped ahead quickly Friday night, piling up 16 first-quarter points behind quarterback Ethan Swedberg, who accounted for three touchdowns in the opening frame. He connected with Drew Fischer on a 39-yard strike, powered in a 3-yard rush, and found Maverick Peterson from 16 yards out to put Hillcrest up 16–6. By the end of the half, Swedberg had added another highlight, an electrifying 62-yard bomb to Griffen Haus, stretching the lead to 22–6.

Coming off last year’s unforgettable run to the Section Final, Hillcrest entered this season carrying high expectations. But with a roster that looks different and plays different, the Comets are already showing that their strength will come from forging a fresh identity marked by trust, energy, and unity.

The Comets’ identity is already clear: organized in the back field, tireless in midfield, and ruthless up front when chances come. They communicate, they cover for each other, and they play with an edge. When they get punched, they punch back. When momentum tilts, they grind to tilt it back. This is a squad that’s learning how to suffer together and surge together.

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.

Despite the final scoreline, Hillcrest outshot the Deacons 10-6, a testament to their offensive pressure and ability to create opportunities. The Comets didn't simply sit back; they pushed forward, lining up shots and moving the ball into striking positions, gaining valuable experience and confidence in the process.

Hillcrest’s ability to adapt and defend against a strong opponent throughout the game built their confidence. The team’s performance, holding the Otters at bay for almost the entire match, is a testament to their growing strength and unity. While the game ended in a narrow 1-0 loss, the Comets left the field with their heads held high, knowing they had tested their limits and emerged stronger as they continue to build momentum for the season ahead.

Coach Rod Jensen praised Morris High School for launching their MSHSL program and acknowledged the challenges of building a new team. Reflecting on the match, Coach Jensen was pleased with the opportunity to rotate players and give some veterans a well-deserved rest. Notably, younger players like Levi DeYounge, David Diniz, and Miles Selvig stepped up, making significant contributions throughout the contest.

The Hillcrest Comets Boys Soccer Team kicked off their season with a resounding 5-1 victory over the East Grand Forks (EGF) Green Wave on Thursday afternoon, demonstrating the team's growing unity and confidence in Coach Rod’s system.

Beyond the intense competition on the court, it was a night of celebration as Hillcrest Volleyball Alumni made a heartwarming return. Familiar faces from the past joined in the festivities, contributing to a special atmosphere that united players and fans alike.

With this impressive win, the Comets now hold a season record of 7-5-1, setting the stage for their upcoming clash with Pelican Rapids on Saturday at 2 PM.

In an impressive display of teamwork and unity, the Hillcrest volleyball team shut down Clinton Graceville Beardsley to start Homecoming Week. With scores of 25-16, 25-13, and 25-17, the Comets gave fans a lot to cheer about and made the night memorable.

In a powerhouse performance, Hillcrest Academy dominated the court on Thursday night in Wheaton, leaving the Wheaton/Herman-Norcross Warriors in defeat. Hillcrest notched three consecutive sets of 25-15, 25-16, and an impressive 25-9 close.

Coach Debi Foss was proud of the team after the game. "Tonight our plan was to stay disciplined and stay focused against the Ashby Arrows, and I believe we accomplished that goal.”

The home opener had it all: breathtaking runs, pinpoint passes, and incredible special teams plays. It showcased Ethan Swedberg's brilliance as he passed four touchdowns, ran for two more, and led his team to victory.

Hillcrest Boys Soccer boarded the bus Thursday night with a few cards, some bumps and bruises, and a 4-3 win in a scrappy match against Crookston.

With the 4-2 loss the Comets honed resolve and fortitude to relentlessly work despite the score and time on the clock. It was an important game early in the season that is building character qualities Hillcrest takes to their next game.