History

History of Hermantown Football

Since its founding in 1941, Hermantown Football has built a legacy of dedication, perseverance, and championship success. What started as a small club team has grown into one of Minnesota’s most respected high school football programs, with a tradition that spans decades and generations of players, coaches, and passionate fans.

The Hawks took on their signature Blue and Gold colors in 1942, marking the beginning of an era of competitive football. Under the leadership of just seven head coaches over its history, Hermantown Football has established a culture of consistency and excellence. The team has celebrated numerous conference championships, undefeated seasons, and state tournament appearances, competing against some of Minnesota’s most formidable opponents.

In 1948, Hermantown won its first championship under Head Coach George Rukovina, setting the tone for future success. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, legendary Head Coach George Petrich led the Hawks to multiple conference titles, dominating local rivals and securing undefeated seasons. Three teams from the 1960s (1964, 1965, 1966) were later inducted into the Hermantown Football Hall of Fame, a testament to their dominance on the field.

The 1970s and 1980s brought further success, with Head Coach Gary Bowen guiding the team to its first state championship game appearance in 1981, finishing as runner-up. The program thrived, claiming five conference championships and making multiple state tournament appearances during this era. The Wing-T offense, implemented in the 1980s, became a signature system for the Hawks, a strategy still used today.

In the 1990s and 2000s, under the leadership of Randy Bowen and Daryl Illikainen, the Hawks continued to build on their reputation for excellence. The team had undefeated seasons and deep state tournament runs in 1997, 1998, 2002, and 2003, solidifying its status as a perennial contender in Minnesota high school football.

The 2010s and beyond have been filled with even more success, with the Hawks winning conference championships in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, and 2018. The 2011 and 2015 seasons were particularly special, as the Hawks went undefeated and advanced deep into the state playoffs.

Today, under the guidance of Head Coach Mike Zagelmeyer, Hermantown Football continues to uphold its proud traditions. During Coach Zagelmeyer’s tenure, the Hawks have won section titles in 2018, 2020, and 2024. Today’s Hawk program is built on a strong foundation of dedicated coaches, committed student-athletes, and a passionate community that has supported the Hawks for generations. From its humble beginnings in 1941 to today’s championship-caliber teams, Hermantown Football remains a symbol of excellence, sportsmanship, and perseverance.

The Hawks continue to honor the past while looking ahead to a future filled with even more victories, memories, and the continuation of a legacy that defines what it means to be a Hermantown Hawk.