Blooming Prairie, Hayfield football co-op a smashing success in Year 1
Nov. 6—It was to the point last year where both the Blooming Prairie and Hayfield football teams were facing the same quandary: Would either of them have enough healthy bodies to complete their seasons? They both made it through, but just barely. And both struggled in the win-loss department, Blooming Prairie going 2-7, Hayfield 1-8. The number of players going out for football had gradually ...
In a surprising turn of events, Blooming Prairie and Hayfield high schools have come together to form a joint football team for the 2021 season, and the collaboration has proved to be a resounding success. Both schools struggled in previous years, with the Blooming Prairie squad finishing 2-7 and the Hayfield team 1-8. However, this year's co-op team is now 7-3 and will face off against No. 5 Class 2A ranked Waterville-Elysian-Morristown in the Section 2, Class 2A championship game.
Both head coaches, Chad Gimbel and Derrick Thompson, share credit for the team's success, as they have worked closely together to create a seamless joining of forces. The 56-year-old Gimbel, who has a stellar 221-85 record with the Blooming Prairie "Blossoms," and the 41-year-old Thompson, who has been at Hayfield only four seasons, both recognize the benefits of merging their programs, including overcoming injuries and having younger players fill in.
Coaches and players alike have praised the camaraderie and motivation that have developed from their unique partnership, leading to a more enjoyable and successful season.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
