The defending Class 4A champs Orono got off to a rockin’ start to their 2026 campaign on Thursday night, defeating Becker 35-28 to overcome a 14-point deficit and earn a hard-fought Week 1 victory. The Spartans, who did graduate some big-time, clutch talent from their 2026 class, but the Metro 4A program has been a real-deal fertile recruiting territory as of late, so you gotta believe the Spartans have reloaded with verified athletes and playmakers. Hudson Hirt Hudson Hirt 6'0" | 170 lbs | RB/DB Orono | 2028 State MN is up there with the best of the best on Orono’s 2026 roster, as he posted 115 carries for 558 yards and 2 TDs as a two-way contributor to the eventual Class 4A champion. This has set him up to really impact the Spartans in 2026 as a junior, and he’s off to a good start, posting 130 rushing yards and 3 TDs on the ground in Orono’s win over the traditional 4A powerhouse Becker. No surprise here, as Hirt had some strong stops on the camp trail this summer, posting some strong athletic times for his age while looking good during 1v1 competition. Hirt’s going to be a huge weapon and asset for Orono this fall.

Skillset:

great vision

effective speed, big burst

can manipulate, create, and take advantage of space in the open field

smooth, effective cutter that can pull away from defenders and really change direction with suddenness

love the contact balance and want to run behind his pads. Physical ball carrier who can eat, absorb, and distribute contact well