Fargo North Football Team Aims for Redemption and Championship in 2023 Season
After a 22-year wait, the Fargo North football team returned to the Fargodome for Dakota Bowl XXX last season. Despite being the underdogs as the fifth seed in the Class 11A state playoffs, the team believed in their potential and their strong skill level at multiple positions.
Head coach Adam Roland acknowledged that the team sometimes played like underdogs last year, even though they had a talented lineup consisting of juniors, sophomores, and a handful of exceptional senior players. This season, with a large group of returning seniors, there is a new expectation to act like veterans on the field.
The Spartans’ offense looks promising for the upcoming season. Quarterback Ethan Welk, who stepped into the role as a junior, returns for his senior year. He will have his top three targets, Jeremiah Sem, Carter Zeller, and Jim Miller, by his side. Additionally, the ground game will be led by Peder Haugo, a two-time all-state, all-conference running back who committed to North Dakota State in May.
Haugo had an impressive 2022 season, leading the Eastern Dakota Conference with 1,431 rushing yards. He averaged 7.1 yards per carry and broke the single-season school record with 25 rushing touchdowns. Haugo is focused on being a leader on the field rather than dwelling on his individual accomplishments.
Sem and Miller, who were also all-conference, all-state players last year, will play crucial roles in North’s offense. Sem was the team’s leading receiver, while Miller showcased his versatility by contributing as a rusher, receiver, and even as the team’s punter.
Defensively, North is anchored by senior linebacker Sam Fritel, who recorded 57.5 total tackles last season. Haugo will also contribute on the defensive end, bringing his tackling ability and pass coverage skills. The Spartans have a strong secondary with defensive backs Parker Dosch, Carson Hannestad, and Peyton Trogstad, who combined for four interceptions and 15 pass breakups in 2022.
The Spartans have a well-rounded team and are eager to prove their potential this season. With a balanced offense, a solid defense, and a winning mentality, North aims to make it back to the Fargodome and claim the state championship that eluded them last year.
North’s journey begins with a road game against West Fargo Horace on August 18 at 6 p.m. The team understands that it will take a winning mentality and consistent performance to reach their goals. They have fostered a culture of confidence over the years, and now it’s time to translate that into results on the field.
As North heads into the 2023 season, they are ranked No. 1 in the North Dakota Associated Press Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association’s Class 2A preseason poll. With their sights set on redemption and a championship, the Spartans are ready to prove that they are not underdogs anymore. They have the experience, talent, and determination to make this season memorable and bring home the coveted state title.
