Recruiting Report: Ridge Hunstad (2017)

Adam Rossow

January 26, 2017 @ 05:00 PM

Ridge Hunstad’s performance last season was arguably as good as any two-way player in Minnesota. The Pillager senior gained over 1,500 yards with 19 touchdowns rushing, averaging 9.7 yards per carry. He added another 500 yards and six touchdowns receiving. If his offensive output wasn’t enough, Hunstad intercepted a state-leading 14 passes, returning two for scores. “It was one of the best seasons I've had as a football player and also as a football team,” Hunstad said via email. His play was a big catalyst for the Huskies’ undefeated regular season – the first in school history -- and Class AA state tournament berth. Hunstad said he dedicated himself to the weight room last offseason which improved his strength, along with his leadership skills. Hunstad also competes in basketball and baseball for the Huskies, and has been a multiple-year starter in both sports. Pillager coach Paul Peterson said he believes Hunstad, ranked No. 183 in NFN’s final <a href="http://www.northstarfootballnews.com/2017-rankings">Class of 2017 rankings</a>, can become an even better player at the next level. “When his focus is one sport, it will be fun to see how good he can be,” Peterson said via email. Hunstad has been in contact with NAIA, Division II and Division III schools around the upper Midwest. He said Valley City State has recruited him the most, but that no program has emerged as a favorite less than a week before National Signing Day. “I'm looking for a medium-size school, because I like the feeling of knowing almost everyone like I have at Pillager,” Hunstad said. Hunstad is also an avid golfer. When his playing career is finished, he said he hopes to stay involved in sports in some capacity. “Physical education and coaching have been something that I've been thinking about doing for a little while now,” said Hunstad about a possible academic focus in college. The 170-pounder’s ability to play both offense and defense make him an interesting college recruit. Peterson called Hunstad is a “no-risk prospect with tremendous upside”. He believes Hunstad’s ball skills make him a better receiver prospect in college, but thought his instincts could allow him to excel in the defensive backfield too. “Ridge's best attribute on the field is his field awareness and game feel,” Peterson said. “He sees and anticipates/reads blocks, balls in the air, etc.”