The Rockets lost 11 seniors, including 9 starters to graduation last spring, however, they do return some experience on the line.  They will be looking to Joey Kupfer and Hunter Haugen to be the leaders up front.  Reed Leabo, Krosby Aasness and Slade Moore are three seniors locking down the backfield offensively and solidifying the defensive back and linebacker positions on defense.

Other returning letter winners include juniors Brien Poser (DB/RB), Jaxon Rich (DE/TE) and Logan Schleske (LB/RB/TE).

Hendrickson will be looking to junior Tristan Evavold (RB/LB) and freshman Kale Rich (OL/DL) to contribute at the varsity level.  “Tristan missed most of last season with a back injury,” said Hendrickson.  “He is very athletic and we will look for big things from him.  Kale is a hard worker who dedicates himself to the weight room and he will be trying to earn a varsity spot this season.”

Hendrickson says that both the section and conference will be very competitive, pointing to Pelican Rapids as the top team in the Northwest (South) District.  As for Section 6A, Hendrickson says Walker-Hackensac-Akeley, Breckenridge, New York Mills and Ottertail Central will all be very competitive.

“We have worked very hard to gain experience through our off-season work,”concluded Hendrickson.  “We look forward for that hard work to pay off and earn another shot at a top spot in the District.”