The South Hamilton Hawks football team returned to top form in 2022, with an 8-2 record and their 2nd district title in 3 years. Paul Skartvedt’s initial run as head coach picked up where his predecessor, Corey Klemp, left off, with South Hamilton winning with a brand of smashmouth, belly-series offense and a punishing, disciplined defense. The Hawks lose some important seniors from the 2022 squad, including all-district running back Landen Skartvedt and all-district lineman Carter Balvanz. However, with the many that are returning, 2023 is setting up to possibly be one of the best seasons in program history.
Offense
The South Hamilton offense was one of the best in Class 1A in 2022, with the Hawks leading the state in rushing yards (3,610) and rushing touchdowns (57). Returners from that squad include quarterback Tjerdan Johnson, entering his third and final season directing the Hawks wishbone attack, along with fullback Noah Gunderson and running backs Nick Severseike and Kolby Hodnefield. The four backs combined for 2,146 of the Hawks 3,610 rushing yards in 2022, and accounted for 36 of their 57 touchdowns. Landon Greufe and Ashton Williams will also be in the mix for some spell snaps as well at running back.
The Hawks are not ones to throw the ball much in their wishbone attack, but Tjerdan Johnson’s favorite target will likely be senior Owen Renaud, who caught 4 of Johnson’s 16 completed passes in 2022. Landon Sogard will also look to step into a bigger role at tight end and receiver with the departures of Aiden Johnson and Jack Moline. Up front, the offensive line will have to replace Carter Balvanz and Ernie Taylor, but do return the likes of Owen Duns, Kaden Schwandt, Carter Stolee and Graham Peters. Peters twin brother Adley will also be in the mix after missing most of last season with an injury.
Defense
On the defensive side, the Hawks return a large number of contributors for a defense that forced nearly 30 turnovers last season. The defensive line is spearheaded by Owen Renaud, who led the Hawks in sacks (7) and tackles for loss (15). Owen Duns, Kaden Schwandt and the Peters brothers will also be a part of the veteran group. The linebacking core returns top tackler Noah Gunderson in the middle, as well as senior Tjerdan Johnson, while it’s likely Preston Van De Pol mans the 4th linebacker spot as he returns following a season-ending injury early in 2022.
The secondary does lose safety Teagan Trask, who led the Hawks in interceptions (4) in 2022, which could present the opportunity for a lengthy corner such as Nick Severseike to move to the top of the secondary. Landon Greufe returns at one corner spot, and if Severseike moves to safety, Kolby Hodnefield will likely man the other cornerback spot, which he took over halfway through the season in 2022.
South Hamilton opens their season on Friday, August 25th, when they host rivals South Hardin at Bill Taylor Field in Jewell.