Harvey, N.D. – The Harvey‑Wells County Hornets are less than 72 hours away from the biggest game in the co‑op’s 15‑year history. The second‑seeded Hornets entered the state playoffs on a 10‑game winning streak, each victory coming by a margin of at least 20 points.
That streak has set up a showdown with regional rivals and defending state champions Langdon Area‑Munich in Dakota Bowl XXXIV at the Fargodome. The Hornets, who have not lost a game since early August, are determined to keep the season alive.
Coach Dockter’s confidence
“If we could play till March, we would,” said head coach Bret Dockter, emphasizing the team’s hunger for more success. Dockter highlighted the Hornets’ physical run game, chunk‑play passing attack, and dominant defense as the pillars that have carried them this far.
Offensive firepower
Senior tailback and nose guard Christian Mertz described the semifinal victory as “the greatest feeling.” Mertz rushed for 300 yards and six touchdowns in Saturday’s win, a performance that underscored the Hornets’ offensive dominance. Dockter added, “If you give Christian a four‑ or five‑yard head start, you’re probably in bad shape. We have a lot of stuff we want to run, and when you can start running iso and power like we have been, you don’t need a whole lot else.”
Defensive strength
Harvey‑Wells County’s defense has been equally impressive, allowing just 40 points across the playoff run while the offense has piled up 162 points. The balanced attack has positioned the Hornets as a formidable opponent for Langdon Area‑Munich, who suffered a 41‑13 loss to Harvey‑Wells County in their regular‑season meeting on Sept. 4 – the Cardinals’ only defeat in the past two years.
Looking ahead
As the Hornets prepare to take the field at the Fargodome, the community of Harvey is rallying behind the team. The co‑op’s success reflects the dedication of players, coaches, and supporters who have worked together to elevate the program to the pinnacle of Class A football in North Dakota.
“The guys up front are just rolling people right now,” Dockter said, noting the depth and cohesion of the offensive line. “When you can start running iso and power like we have been, you don’t need a whole lot else.” The Hornets hope to cap their historic season with a state championship, adding another chapter to the co‑op’s growing legacy.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
