By halftime, Hillcrest held a 31–23 lead. Coach Hannah Clark noted how proud she was of her squad’s execution, saying, “They are an unselfish group of girls who continue to buy into their roles for the success of the team.” True to that statement, several Comets contributed after the break. With Underwood keying in on Elsa, senior guard Elin Retzlaff shouldered the scoring load in the second half, attacking the rim with confidence and pouring in a game-high 19 points.

Although the Comets and Falcons each came away with one win apiece, the true highlight of the night was the competitive spirit and camaraderie between these two friendly rivals. Fans were treated to scrappy defense, timely shooting, and the kind of atmosphere that only high school sports can bring. With plenty of season left, both squads will continue to refine their games and aim for a strong finish.

In yet another standout performance that underscores why they’re one of the top teams in the state, Hillcrest Comets Girls Basketball cruised past Rothsay with a dominant 72–36 victory. From the opening whistle, Hillcrest’s was fueled by more than a solid game plan and talented athletes. On any given night, any one of the Comets players can step up at a key moment to fuel the team to pull away. It reveals their incredible trust in each other and an unwavering resolve to band together for a common purpose.

The Comet Boys are finding their stride, powered by a resilient defense that relies on help defense and quick passes. Through the past week of Basketball, fans witnessed a Comet team coming together. In Tuesday night’s home showdown against the New York Mills Eagles, the Comets’ energetic start and unrelenting pressure forced 20 turnovers—15 of them in the first half alone—helping Hillcrest jump out to an 18-point lead. At the final buzzer, the Comets locked up a 76-34 victory behind their suffocating defense, holding the Eagles to just 14 points in the second half.

In a game where most things that have come naturally all season suddenly felt difficult, the Hillcrest Comet Girls leaned on their unity, resiliency, and gritty possession-by-possession focus to secure a 78–56 victory over a determined Parkers squad.

In one of the toughest matchups they’ll face all season, the Hillcrest Comets Boys showed tremendous intensity and resolve Tuesday night, staving off a late surge from the physical Border West Buccaneers to secure a thrilling 59-57 home victory. Both teams expended every ounce of energy in a contest that demanded mental sharpness and physical endurance from tipoff to the final buzzer.

The Comets' defense, anchored by EJ Cho, Gabriel Mazon, and Caleb Holm, showed their determination to protect freshman goalkeeper Will Selvig, who recorded his first varsity shutout with six key saves. Coach Rod Jensen praised his squad for their defensive grit, especially in a game complicated by gusty winds.

As the final score read Hillcrest 77, CGB 51, the message was clear. With the playoffs in sight, the Comets are honing their ability to score points in a myriad of ways with one consistent trait, they never quit.

The keys to the Comet’s win were their excellent off-ball movement and potent entry passes, particularly to standout sophomore Ella Knutson. Knutson, who impressively scored her 1000th point during the game, was a force in the paint.

Since the Christmas break, the Comets have been on an unstoppable roll, stringing together a series of impressive victories. This winning streak has been a testament to their hard work and dedication, propelling them into a crucial season phase with high spirits and confidence.

The Comet Classic is a shining example of how alumni engagement can profoundly influence current students. It highlights the importance of mentorship, shared experiences, and the power of a community that extends beyond one's time at school.

The echoes of the tough loss to West Central Area still lingered as the Hillcrest Comets stepped onto the court for a Saturday afternoon thriller against Fridley’s Avail Academy. Determined to rebound from the defeat, the Comets faced a formidable challenge in Avail, known for their potent offensive prowess.

Today, in the Student Activities Center, seasoned athletes joined those stepping onto the court for the first time, all looking to don the Comet jersey this winter to play basketball. The journey they’re taking extends beyond the court. They embark on a holistic experience that will foster growth in understanding identity, building healthy relationships, and cultivating a culture that honors God while respecting each unique individual.

Beyond the intense competition on the court, it was a night of celebration as Hillcrest Volleyball Alumni made a heartwarming return. Familiar faces from the past joined in the festivities, contributing to a special atmosphere that united players and fans alike.

With this impressive win, the Comets now hold a season record of 7-5-1, setting the stage for their upcoming clash with Pelican Rapids on Saturday at 2 PM.

In a homecoming soccer showdown, the HLA Boys Soccer Team traveled across town to take on their friends and rivals, the Fergus Falls Otters. The Comets secured a solid 2-0 victory to start the Homecoming sports festivities.

The home opener had it all: breathtaking runs, pinpoint passes, and incredible special teams plays. It showcased Ethan Swedberg's brilliance as he passed four touchdowns, ran for two more, and led his team to victory.

Hillcrest Boys Soccer boarded the bus Thursday night with a few cards, some bumps and bruises, and a 4-3 win in a scrappy match against Crookston.

The Hillcrest Comets Boys Soccer Team's season opener showcased talent and determination. The match was a nail-biting tie that left fans on the edge of their seats. The contest, held at Danielsen Field at Hillcrest, was a thrilling display of both teams' prowess as they battled for dominance on the pitch.

High school is a pivotal time in kids' lives, marked by significant personal and academic growth. For many, athletics is integral to their high school growth, shaping character, discipline, and teamwork. At Hillcrest, athletics is an extension of the classical approach to education, a co-curricular opportunity where lessons in the classroom mirror those taught on the field, court, or track. These things rarely happen if adults aren’t actively involved and have a strong ethical framework to guide students. The importance of athletic programs having committed Christian mentors cannot be understated, as they instill values and set goals beyond sports.