Cromwell's Cody Hendrickson started at strong safety and represented the Northland well in the Minnesota High School All-Star Football Game on June 28 in St. Cloud.
"It was a lot of fun," explained Hendrickson this week. "The whole week of events, the banquet, and then the game, was just a lot of fun to experience."
Hendrickson, who played on both sides of the ball in high school, started at strong safety for the Outstate Team in their 22-17 loss to the Metro Team.
"Cody played over half the game on defense as well as on kickoff and punt return teams," mentioned Cromwell coach Jeff Gronner. "He played really well. The most fun was watching him on special teams where he was able to light some kids up that were much bigger than him."
The Outstate Team led 17-7 at the half, but they were unable to hold the lead in the second half against the speedy Metro squad.
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"The talent level on the field was pretty unbelievable," commented Hendrickson. "Everyone was big, fast and strong, but I felt I could hold my own against them."
Hendrickson was in on a number of tackles and played his position with precision despite not playing safety in high school.
"I didn't play safety in high school so I had to make the adjustment," mentioned Hendrickson. "I was a little nervous going into the game, but once I settled down, I just relaxed and played the game."
Among the memories Hendrickson will take from the event is feeling right at home with his teammates from the very beginning.
"We had a team with a very good personality and everyone got along really well right from the start," said Hendrickson. "It seemed the Outstate Team players were a lot more laid back and just took things as they came without any personality problems."
Hendrickson has committed to play at the University of Minnesota-Crookston next season where they plan on using him in the defensive backfield. Despite having played quarterback at Cromwell, as well as on defense, Hendrickson is excited about the chance to play college ball.
"It doesn't matter what position I play," stated Hendrickson. "I just want to play ball and I'll play wherever they want me to play in college."
Hendrickson will start practice at Crookston on Aug. 6 as he fulfills his dream of playing college football.
