Maple Grove Overcomes All Obstacles to Reach Semifinals

The Maple Grove Crimson have made it to the semifinals after playing an incredible undefeated season. This year’s team has achieved unmatched success with star performances that have made them one of the top teams in the state. It is undeniable that Maple Grove has had a strong season, but the Crimson have had their share of setbacks and disappointments.

Early in the season, a series of significant injuries knocked out major players from last year's team. With plans for the season thrown off, an opportunity opened for some unexpected players to fill the void left behind from the loss of some of their strongest players. Across the entire team, players had to step up and play at the level that would get them to state. This meant switching positions and increased expectations for all players. Coach Lombardi shared his pride in seeing his players rise to overcome these challenges. Even with the disappointment of losing their senior season, the injured seniors provided mentoring and leadership to help the team succeed. The importance of the team over the individual has created the team chemistry that led to their success this season.

The stretch of games from when Maple Grove played Minnetonka and Centennial started building the team’s momentum as they found a way to win those games against tough opponents. However, the turning point in the season came when Maple Grove made up 28 points in a game against Wayzata. “When we fell behind Wayzata, [14 to 0], the mentality of our team changed,” said Coach Lombardi. At that point the team shifted its focus and the switch was lit. They took every game seriously.

Last year's noteworthy season and eventual loss at state expanded the team’s sense of camaraderie and family. The experience taught the team that it’s always about the next game, and it motivated them to succeed for each other. The team enters each game focused on the challenge at hand which has given them incredible momentum this year.

In addition to the team’s success, the student spirit at games has also been exceptional this year. The crowd's enthusiasm at the games can be described as nothing but electric, and that energy carries over to the team's performance. Maple Grove has some of the best fan turnout in the state, and it has undoubtedly contributed to the team having one of the best home field advantages. This year’s seniors went 12-0 on their home field in their high school career. From day one, Coach Lombardi wanted the games to be a strong community event because Friday Night Lights should be an exciting and fun time for high school students.

“All I wanted when I came here was a program where kids were crying when it was over because it meant so much to them, and they went into every game thinking they had a chance,” said Coach Lombardi.

All of these factors have led to an outstanding performance by Maple Grove this year that will be carried on at state. Maple Grove will play against Lakeville South High School in the semifinals on Thursday the 17th.