“We have a good returning senior class which has gained quality experience,” said Head Coach Paul Peterson, now in his fourth season.  “We have solid starters back on both sides of the ball.”

Seniors Erik Peterson (QB), Tucker Peterson (LB/RB), Luke Woidyla (DB/RB), Jack Bentson (DL/FB), Spencer Schaefer (DL/TE), Judah Beard (DB), Jarrett Hutchison (OL), Ethan Thomsen (OL) and Jack Burm (OL), are joined by juniors Griffin Decker (DB) and Hunter Gjovik (LB) and sophomore Abe Posner (OL) as returning starters.

Players also looking to contribute at the varsity level include seniors Ethan Berndt (FB), Eric Klein (OL) and Brady Wermter (DL/OL), juniors AJ Gratke (TE), Cole Hiltner (DL/LB) and Jimmy Winkelman (LB), and sophomores Dalton Barrett (DL/OL) and Quintin Laveau (DB).

“Tucker Peterson and Luke Woidyla will split the rushing game, while Erik Peterson will lead the passing attack with Spencer Schaefer and AJ Gratke filling the receiver spots,” said Coach Peterson.  “Our defense will be led by Hunter Gjovik, Jack Bentson and Judah Beard as we play our swarming team style.  We will have to create depth early with young players finding their roles.  Our defensive backfield will be tested and our offensive line will need to play together.”

Jim Bentson, Jacob Box, Eric Fornshell, Rob Freelove, Bryan Hutchison, Kent Janicke, Chad Koel, Dan Johnson, Randy Posner, Chris Ramsey, Chris Berent and Josh Brown will assist Coach Peterson.

“We are very excited about what our season can become,” added Coach Peterson.  “We are more focused and driven as we work and grow as a football family.  We are proud to represent Pillager by doing things the Husky Way.”

Peterson sees Osakis as the main challenger to the Section 6AA title, while Ottertail Central and West Central Area are the top teams in Midwest Blue District play.