Cromwell will have a difficult time living up to last season's run into the post season. The Cards lost to Wheaton in the state semifinals at the Metrodome as they continued their dominance of local teams.
"It was a nice run for us last season," said coach Jeff Gronner. "We finished very strong."
One of the keys to the strong finish was the return of all-everything player John Hedin. Hedin missed the first four games of the season as he rehabilitated an injured knee.
"We were excited about having John available all season after that knee injury," mentioned Gronner. "Unfortunately John suffered a similar injury to his other knee and he will be out for the season this year."
The loss of Hedin leaves the Cards scrambling to try and find a reliable and durable back to help out quarterback Cody Hendrickson, who is one of the best at his position in northern Minnesota. Hendrickson, who was first team All-State, finished with 1,000 yards rushing and 1,700 yards passing for the Cards last season, while Hedin played at an All-State level once he returned from his injury.
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"John was our best punt and kick returner, our best receiver, running back and the list goes on," explained Gronner of the Hedin loss. "He is one of the best all-around players this program has had and it is tough to overcome the loss of someone like him."
The key will be the ability of the Cards to adapt and use the feet and arm of Hendrickson. Armed with a strong group of receivers, you could see the Cards throw the ball more often than in past seasons.
"We'll do what we have to do in order to win games," commented Gronner. "It isn't like anyone will feel sorry for us, so we better not feel sorry for ourselves."
Evans Hakamaki will be a key anchor for the offensive and defensive lines for the Cards. At center, Hakamaki will be important in the protection of four-year-starter Hendrickson. Joining Hakamaki on the line again will be Taylor Forconi, who will play guard on offense and tackle on defense.
Look for Tyler Burggraff to be one of Hendrickson's primary receivers again this season, and on defense the junior will play an important role in his linebacking position.
"We are definitely going to need some guys to step up," said Gronner. "We've got some talented young guys, but they are very inexperienced."
The team will have good depth and talent on the offensive and defensive lines which should allow the younger backs the chance to at least see some holes to run through. That line will include Burggraff, Forconi, Hakamaki and Ethan Hutar.
Another big key on the defensive side is Hendrickson who added 140 tackles at linebacker and eight interceptions.
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"I'm really excited because we had a lot of guys come out for the team," mentioned Gronner. "We expect to contend for the league and section titles even without John. We feel terrible for him and wish he could play, but we have to deal with what we have in front of us."
