The chess club serves as a microcosm of the school's broader classical approach to education. Chess encourages students to think deeply, set meaningful goals, and seek the guidance of others to achieve success. Through the game, students not only learn about strategy but also about character—how to handle defeat with grace, how to win with humility, and how to mentor others along the way.

Though Hillcrest’s serving percentage dipped slightly, with Kenzie Miller being the only player with 100% serving accuracy, the team’s ability to rise and perform in key moments made the difference this week. Each player’s contribution was vital, and their dedication to preparation and discipline shone through, helping the Comets claim another conference victory.

Knitting, therefore, becomes a living metaphor for the Christian life. As the students in "Knitwits" work on their projects, they are reminded that God has woven them into His grand design, with purpose and intention. Through this practice, they see how their small, everyday choices contribute to the larger pattern of their lives, a pattern God has ordained for good. As the students of Hillcrest Academy engage with these simple, structured practices, they not only create beautiful works of art but also learn how to live disciplined, organized lives—grounded in faith and purposeful action.

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.

Head Coach Debi Foss highlighted how the team has been working on galvanizing their unity throughout the summer. "Our girls have worked all summer to build this unified spirit, and it’s showing in every set we play. Their joy, commitment, and chemistry on and off the court have been key to our success.”

The Comets’ ability to capitalize on Underwood's miscues, combined with their refusal to give up, was the defining factor in this hard-fought victory. With over 200 rushing yards and three touchdowns from Swedenberg, along with a balanced passing attack led by Swedberg's three touchdown passes, Hillcrest emerged victorious after a night of intense back-and-forth action.

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.