Saint Croix Lutheran Hosts Faribault Falcons in Exciting Football Season Opener

The City of Inver Grove Heights hosted a football matchup on August 29, 2025, featuring the Faribault Falcons against the Saint Croix Lutheran Academy Crusaders at Saint Croix Lutheran Academy in West Saint Paul, Minnesota. The event marked the beginning of the high school football season, with both teams eager to kick off their campaigns.

Commentators highlighted the anticipation surrounding the game, noting that it was the first time the Crusaders would face the Falcons. The weather conditions were favorable, with a cooling breeze as the sun set, creating a comfortable atmosphere for the spectators. The Crusaders, coming off a successful 7-3 season, were looking to build on their previous performance, while the Falcons aimed to improve from their 4-5 record last year.

Significant changes in team rosters were discussed, particularly for the Crusaders, who had new players in key positions, including quarterback. This transition could impact team dynamics as they sought to establish their identity early in the season. The commentators emphasized the importance of adapting to these changes quickly, especially given the fast-paced nature of the football season.

The meeting also touched on the recent realignment of sections within the league, which saw Stewartville added to the Falcons' section and Holy Family removed from the Crusaders' section. This realignment is evaluated every two years, and it aims to create a more balanced competition among teams.

Before the game commenced, a moment of silence was observed in memory of the victims of a recent shooting in Minneapolis, reflecting the community's solidarity and support for those affected. The national anthem was performed by the Crusader pep band, further enhancing the sense of community and school spirit at the event.

As the teams prepared to take the field, both coaches expressed hopes for a strong start to the season, with the Crusaders aiming to replicate their previous success and the Falcons looking to improve their standing. The outcome of this matchup would set the tone for the rest of the season as both teams sought to navigate the challenges ahead.