2025 Preseason Preview – Hermantown High School
Photo: Sofia Jordan Prep Redzone
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<p>After a strong 9-2 season that ended in a section championship and state quarterfinal appearance, Hermantown is poised for another memorable season. Despite the loss of eight seniors, the team retains crucial talent and leadership.</p>
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<p>The Hawks' offense runs through junior running back [player_tooltip player_id='1292281' first='Martin' last='Sleen'], who piled up over 1,700 yards last year. His combination of speed, vision, and power makes him the centerpiece of the ground attack. College coaches have been inquiring about Sleen since his breakout. </p>
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<p>The passing game features a tall, athletic junior quarterback in <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1639327' first='Sawyer' last='Senst']</strong>, who steps in after a three-year starter graduated. Senst's size and dual-threat ability give the offense flexibility to attack defenses vertically and on the ground. [player_tooltip player_id='1328726' first='Landon' last='Burg'], a dynamic wide receiver, recently received an offer from Minnesota Duluth. He's a reliable target who consistently stretches the field. Tight end, linebacker and captain <strong>Grant Johnson</strong> adds toughness and versatility in the passing game and blocking. Fullback and linebacker <strong>Jimmy Bartsch </strong>provides grit and leadership in multiple phases, giving the offense a physical edge. </p>
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<p>Junior <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1612764' first='Adan' last='Sandoval-Luna']</strong> anchors the offensive line. He is a developing athlete with natural size, power and collegiate potential. Alongside him, junior <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1694573' first='Neo' last='Carlson']</strong> and junior <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1798765' first='Nate' last='Haedrich']</strong> round out a young but capable front. <strong>Haedrich</strong> missed last season with injury but showed promise at camp and is expected to step up this year. </p>
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<p>Defensively, Hermantown operates a disciplined 4-4 gap-control scheme designed to limit big plays and apply pressure without risking breakdowns. Veterans like Johnson and Bartsch lead a defense that blends experience and physicality. </p>
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<p>Cornerback <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1648466' first='Tanner' last='Homstad']</strong> anchors the secondary, while the defensive line rotation features Sandoval-Luna, Carlson, and Haedrich, each bringing intensity and skill. </p>
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<p>Senior kicker <strong>Bode Madill</strong> is can't miss. He is a reliable leg who routinely hits from 50 yards and boots touchbacks. His consistency and strength have earned Division II attention.</p>
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After a strong 9-2 season that ended in a section championship and state quarterfinal appearance, Hermantown is poised for another memorable season. Despite the loss of eight seniors, the team retains crucial talent and leadership.
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