Football
Overview
The SMB Wolfpack exists to develop young men as football players and leaders in their communities. We endeavor to provide a rich and competitive environment that deepens relationships and character in our players and program. We see and care about each student-athlete as a whole person. We use football as a vehicle to drive development and growth.
Minnehaha Academy is part of SMB Wolfpack Football, a cooperative program with The Blake School, St. Paul Academy and Summit School, and Hope Academy. Together, the Wolfpack exists to develop young men as football players and leaders in their communities, providing a competitive environment that strengthens both performance and character.
The SMB Wolfpack teams are open for students in grades 9-12. Minnehaha also provides a team at the middle school level for students in grades 6-8 (dependent on number of participants).
Minnehaha Football Team Culture
Develop. Compete. Build.
Relentlessly, together!
Growing as a Football Player
Because Minnehaha football is a co-op program, our middle school athletes begin their development within their own school communities while building toward a shared Upper School experience.
Across every stage, we emphasize:
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Skill development and fundamentals
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Football knowledge and understanding of the game
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Strength, conditioning, and preparation
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Character, teamwork, and accountability
Coaching Emphasis
Our coaching philosophy is rooted in holistic development.
Football demands toughness, discipline, and trust—and we use those demands to shape the whole athlete. We are committed to developing skilled players who compete with intensity, while also growing in character, resilience, and a team-first mindset.
Through practices, games, and the daily work in between, players learn how to push through adversity, support their teammates, and carry themselves with integrity on and off the field.
Competition Level
Our program competes at a high level. Athletes are challenged to perform, prepare, and compete with excellence.
At the varsity level, Minnehaha football has competed among the best, including appearances at the State Championship level. Our team has won one state championship, competed in 2 state title games, and competed in 4 section championship games in 11 seasons of Wolfpack football.
At the same time, our program is built to develop. Sub-varsity levels provide meaningful opportunities for players to grow in skill, confidence, and understanding of the game—preparing them to contribute at the varsity level.
Football & Faith Integration
Faith is integrated into our program through player-led Bible studies, time with our athletic chaplain, and team prayer. We intentionally connect faith to the mindset and character required in football—shaping how athletes compete and who they are becoming.
Football Team Traditions
Each season begins with a preseason retreat to Lake Beauty, typically held at the end of the first week of camp.
Before the first game is ever played, this time away helps establish the foundation of our team—trust and accountability. It’s where relationships are formed, leadership begins to take shape, and the tone for the season is set.
More Details
- Season: Fall (mid-August and runs through mid-November)
- Grade Levels: 9-12 (grades 6-8, if enough interest)
- Competition Levels: JV and Varsity
- Practice Location: Minnehaha Academy Lower & Middle School.
- Team Communication: Once you register for this sport, the coach will communicate with student-athletes and parents via email.
- Equipment Requirements & Transportation: Detailed information can be found in the Athletic Team Info document.
How to Join
Coach
- Hugh Brown, Head Coach
- Began Coaching: 2002
Photo Credits: Ezra Victor, Student