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Hermantown’s 2025 football season came full circle Friday night — ending against the same team that handed the Hawks their first loss of the fall.
Grand Rapids, physical and efficient from the start, again proved too much, defeating Hermantown 41-0 in the Section 7, Class 4A championship game to end another strong season for the Hawks.
“It’s a tough way to end our season,” head coach Mike Zagelmeyer said. “Sometimes you just get beat, and that’s what happened Friday night. We congratulate Grand Rapids — they executed better than us and were the more physical team.”
Still, Zagelmeyer said he couldn’t have asked for more from his group.
“I could not be more proud of our team this year,” he said. “We had 16 seniors who committed to the program, who were leaders, who came to work every day, who got it done in the classroom — and most importantly, they’re just great people.”
Those seniors leave behind a lasting legacy.
“Pretty amazing that these seniors played for a section championship every year in the three years they were varsity players for us,” Zagelmeyer said. “High school football isn’t just about playing football. It’s about developing young men who turn into great young adults. To see how far these seniors have come since they were freshmen says a lot about their parents, our coaches, and our program. I think we’re doing it right here in Hermantown.”
Zagelmeyer said the players’ growth means as much as any scoreboard.
“These young men are going to be tremendous adults who contribute to their community, work hard in their jobs, and will be tremendous husbands and fathers,” he said.
The coach also sees reason for optimism ahead.
“As for the young bucks, I still believe the future is very bright,” Zagelmeyer said. “A lot of our underclassmen got valuable playing experience this year that will only set them up for more success moving forward. Some learned through trial by fire due to injuries to an upperclassman; others earned their spot and ran with it. Either way, our numbers continue to be strong — and success will breed success.”
Zagelmeyer credited his staff for much of that continuity.
“I can’t say enough about my coaches, who are here every day trying to make our kids better,” he said. “They push, challenge, and encourage our players. They do it the right way and take great pride in their work. I wouldn’t want to go into a Friday night game with anyone else.”
He also thanked those who support the Hawks from beyond the field.
“Thanks to the school district and community for their support,” Zagelmeyer said. “To make a program work, it’s all hands on deck, and we felt that again this year. From Centricity and True North Flagpoles helping get the new, beautiful flagpole in place, to our Endzone Club and all the businesses that helped us out financially and in other ways — thank you. Please visit HermantownFootball.com and support all the businesses that have supported us.”
And to local reporters: “To the media — thank you for always showing our kids in the best light. It does not go unnoticed.”
Zagelmeyer ended the season with his trademark Northland farewell.
“I hope everyone enjoyed watching, supporting, and being a part of our program,” he said. “Your support means the world, and we can’t wait for Friday nights next year. Enjoy the winter months and tight lines, everyone — it’s time to go fishin’. #GOHAWKS.”
