The match started strong for Hillcrest when Drew Fischer launched a rocket from 38 yards to beat the Laker keeper just six minutes into the game. Although Detroit Lakes quickly responded, tying the game 1-1, the Comets kept up their pressure. Lincoln Nash put the Comets back in the lead, following up a deflected shot from Junior Captain Kian Stender, with a second-half goal from Stender and another from Fischer sealed the victory.

With strong fundamentals, a commitment to growth, and standout performances from key players, the Hillcrest Comets are building momentum with every match. Their summer of hard work is clearly paying off, and as they continue to refine their play, the Comets are poised for even greater success.

At the end of the evening, the girls crowded into Dawn's family room with pens and paper and wrote letters to themselves. What was planned for a five-minute activity stretched into 20 as the girls bent carefully over their work, some flipping the paper and writing on the backs—the letters in sealed envelopes to save and give back to the girls in the spring. Just think how much can happen between now and then, and that's where we guide, influence, teach, and pray for these precious students.

"Although we didn’t come away with the win, the effort was there, and I’m proud of our team," Coach Rod Jensen noted of the Comets effort. "We created many offensive opportunities and are learning from our mistakes. It's never ideal when games hinge on penalty kicks, but we’re using these moments to make key adjustments."

Hillcrest showcased their growing prowess on both sides of the ball in a decisive 56-26 victory over the Ortonville Trojans on September 6th. From the first quarter, the Comets asserted control, stringing together a powerful offensive game led by Ethan Swedberg while the defense held firm with key interceptions and relentless pressure.

Despite the loss, the Comets showcased their potential, with standout performances from Ewan, who rushed for 167 yards and scored three touchdowns, and Swedberg, who threw for 108 yards and two touchdowns. The team will use this game as a learning experience, addressing the defensive lapses and capitalizing on their offensive strengths.

Students were treated to a memorable message from Mrs. Julie Stender, the Lower School Academic Dean. Her talk on the "Four Habits of the Heart" powerfully brought biblical wisdom and life lessons to life. The students started the chapel with a time of worship before Mrs. Stender called the auditorium to recite the four habits, setting the tone for an engaging and thoughtful lesson.

Despite the scoreline, the Comets continued to display moments of dominance, outshooting the Pirates with 11 shots on goal compared to their opponents' seven.

Kaia Miller’s flawless 20-for-20 serving, including 3 aces, set the tone early and never let up. Ruby Peterson (15/15) and Elsa Retzlaff (12/12) followed suit, providing critical consistency behind the service line. These powerful and precise serves are becoming a hallmark of Hillcrest’s game, helping them gain an early advantage and maintain control throughout the match.

The Lady Comets wasted no time making a statement in their season opener, dominating Norman County East/Ulen-Hitterdal with a swift 3-0 victory (25-8, 25-9, 25-11) on Tuesday night. Picking up right where they left off last year, the Comets are on a mission to prove that they are stronger than ever and poised to make a serious run at the state tournament this season.

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Kathy Koch will return to Hillcrest Academy from October 13-15. Dr. Kathy, a renowned speaker, author, and expert in child development and discipleship, will conduct specialized training with our support staff and engage directly with parents and students. Her visit promises to be a powerful time of equipping our community to navigate the challenges of today's world with a Christ-centered identity.

The value of modeling in teaching within a classical program cannot be overstated. It is a method that enhances academic learning, strengthens community bonds, and fosters the development of robust and virtuous character. Mrs. Retzlaff’s gym class is a testament to the power of this approach, demonstrating how rhythms, habits, and intentional modeling can lead to lasting and meaningful growth in students. Through imitation, students learn to embody the values and principles that will guide them throughout their lives, both in and out of the classroom.

Despite the final scoreline, Hillcrest outshot the Deacons 10-6, a testament to their offensive pressure and ability to create opportunities. The Comets didn't simply sit back; they pushed forward, lining up shots and moving the ball into striking positions, gaining valuable experience and confidence in the process.

Hillcrest’s ability to adapt and defend against a strong opponent throughout the game built their confidence. The team’s performance, holding the Otters at bay for almost the entire match, is a testament to their growing strength and unity. While the game ended in a narrow 1-0 loss, the Comets left the field with their heads held high, knowing they had tested their limits and emerged stronger as they continue to build momentum for the season ahead.

Coach Rod Jensen praised Morris High School for launching their MSHSL program and acknowledged the challenges of building a new team. Reflecting on the match, Coach Jensen was pleased with the opportunity to rotate players and give some veterans a well-deserved rest. Notably, younger players like Levi DeYounge, David Diniz, and Miles Selvig stepped up, making significant contributions throughout the contest.

Ava Lindgren unpacks the school theme.

The Hillcrest Comets Boys Soccer Team kicked off their season with a resounding 5-1 victory over the East Grand Forks (EGF) Green Wave on Thursday afternoon, demonstrating the team's growing unity and confidence in Coach Rod’s system.

Hillcrest Lutheran Academy equipped Elle Foss for life in multiple ways, both intellectually and spiritually. Elle's decision to attend Hillcrest was influenced by a desire for community and purpose, especially during a time of loneliness and uncertainty. The supportive community at Hillcrest, along with the guidance of teachers and mentors, played a crucial role in Elle's personal development and prepared her for adulthood.