HUMBOLDT — The Humboldt Collegiate Institute football team was successful in its first road game of the season.
On a rainy Thursday afternoon last week in North Battleford, the HCI Mohawks romped past the John Paul II Collegiate Crusaders, 41-16. It was the second straight game the Mohawks had triumphed over the Crusaders. HCI improved to 2-1 on the season.
One of the goals of the Humboldt Collegiate squad is to get better every week. Defensive co-ordinator Tom Schwinghamer said the team did just that.
“We were pleased with the physical presence that we had... We weren’t backing down from anybody,” Schwinghamer commented regarding the defensive side of the ball.
The veteran coach also said the team’s tackling improved, the Mohawks moved the ball well, and they defeated blocks.
“We shut down a lot of run plays. We had some interceptions and knockdowns,” Schwinghamer said.
Due to injuries, the Mohawks tried players at different spots on defence. After going to the 3A nine-man provincial finals last season, HCI graduated a number of players off its defence. This season the Mohawks are succeeding with players learning while they compete.
Regarding the other side of the ball, the Mohawks played well as they topped 40 points for the second straight outing. Schwinghamer said that quarterback Cody Bergermann moved the ball well and the Mohawks were able to run the football. On a rainy night, the whole offence did a pretty good job of securing a cold, wet football, the coach said.
This Week
The Mohawks look to extend their winning streak to three games when they take on the Delisle Composite School Rebels on Friday afternoon at Glenn Hall Park. The Rebels are the defending 2A nine-man champions.
“Their program historically is very strong. They are well coached. They have fast, tough kids. … We have a lot of respect for them,” Schwinghamer said.
Leaders & Community
This edition of the Mohawks is led by five Grade 12 captains. Schwinghamer said, “We have a good group. The young players look up to them, respect them.”
He also emphasized that the team receives leadership from other sources. “The leadership from our whole group is very strong,” Schwinghamer said. Leadership from the players helps continue the strong, positive culture of the program, he said.
Schwinghamer also expressed appreciation for the support the team receives from the community. He said that comes in many ways, such as game attendance, helping maintain the field, supporting fundraisers and more.
