What Hastings Is Talking About Today (Sports Edition ▲ 29 July 2025)
AI Image by Local Pigeon
Everyone loves a hometown victory. From roaring crowds at the Civic Arena to swimmers cutting through the water like minnows, our sports scene is alive and well. Grab your morning cup of joe and let’s celebrate Hastings athletes together—it’s all smiles and high‑fives around here!
Championship Highlights
HAST Swim Team Takes State — “Last Day, Fast Day”
The Hastings Area Swim Team (HAST) closed out the Minnesota 11–14 Age‑Group Long‑Course State Championships with a bang. The meet’s final day saw relays and individual races where HAST swimmers not only snagged a team title but also celebrated birthdays and individual championships. Relay squads like Lily Burks, Jenna Arneson, Grace Sahli and Hannah Heuer on the girls’ side, and Oscar Green, George Jensen, Jaren Kihima and Will Mann for the boys, book‑ended the morning session. Individual highlights included Jaren Kihima (13th in the 200 m butterfly and 9th in the 200 m breaststroke), Jackson Poncin (1st in the 50 m backstroke), and an array of finals appearances across strokes. With the team trophy secured, the swimmers now turn their attention to the Minnesota Senior long‑course championships later this month. Congratulations, HAST — the pool was all yours!
👉 Link: Hastings Area Swim Team (HAST)
River Blades Shine at the ISI World Recreational Team Championships
River Blades Skating School helps build self-esteem and lasting confidence for life through their dedicated programs. Image by HastingsNow.com/peter
Skaters from the River Blades Skating School twirled into the international spotlight at the ISI World Recreational Team Championships. Spectators at the Hastings Civic Arena cheered as the team showcased polished routines and infectious spirit, earning a haul of ISI World Champion medals. The post thanked coaches Anna, Cassie and Hanna for their choreography and gave a special nod to the parents who tirelessly support the program. “We’re beyond proud of every skater for their hard work, dedication and team spirit,” the team wrote. We couldn’t agree more—keep shining, River Blades!
👉 Link: River Blades Skating School
Day 3 Highlights from HAST’s Long‑Course State Championships
Before the grand finale, Day 3 of the 11–14 Age‑Group State Championships offered a preview of HAST’s dominance. The morning kicked off with 13‑14 relays that beat seed times, including the girls’ 400 m medley (Lily Burks, Jenna Arneson, Grace Sahli and Hannah Heuer) and the boys’ 400 m medley (Oscar Green, George Jensen, Jaren Kihima and Will Mann). Individual point‑scoring swims came from Jackson Poncin (50 m freestyle – 2nd, 100 m breaststroke – 15th, 50 m butterfly), Grace Sahli (100 m breaststroke – 16th), Jaren Kihima (100 m breaststroke – 10th, 50 m butterfly) and Oscar Green (sprints across freestyle and breaststroke). With each swimmer racking up points, Day 3 set the stage for HAST’s ultimate victory.
👉 Link: Hastings Area Swim Team (HAST)
Soccer & Football Updates
Football Pre‑Season Checklist — Time to Get Ready!
The Hastings Raiders Football program is buzzing with pre‑season excitement. The team posted a reminder that football season is “RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER!!”. Parents and players are encouraged to check off four tasks: order football apparel by August 4, register high‑school players by August 8, sign up for the annual golf tournament (set for Aug 15, registration closes Aug 11), and link the 2025 schedule to personal calendars. There’s even a playful nudge for fans: “Have we mentioned that we just can’t wait!!!???” We’re right there with you—roll on, Raiders!
👉 Link: Hastings Raiders Football
HFC United’s Goalie Training Camp
HFC United is investing in the next generation of keepers. The club announced a goalie training camp running Aug 4–7 for two age brackets: U11–U13 and U14+. If your youngster dreams of spectacular saves, now’s the time to register. The post urges players to sign up and improve their goalkeeping skills. With specialized coaching and a fun camp atmosphere, this event promises to sharpen reflexes and build confidence between the posts.
👉 Link: HFC United
HFC United Boys Shine at Nike Soccer Camp
Five HFC United players—Cameron, Sully, Connor, Walker and Leo—brought home bragging rights from Nike Soccer Camp. Competing in a camp “World Cup,” the boys won their age groups and earned praise from the club. “Congrats to our boys for winning their age groups ‘World Cup’!!!” the post reads. The success underscores the strength of Hastings’ youth soccer programs and the dedication of volunteer coaches. Let’s hear it for the future stars!
👉 Link: HFC United
U17 Boys End the Season on a High Note
Another HFC United squad—the U17 boys—wrapped up a fantastic season. The club thanked head coach Chase Harder (yes, the Harder family is everywhere!), assistant coach Joel McGeough, and team manager Trina Hatcher for their hard work behind the scenes. Parents were reminded that managing a team isn’t easy, yet the group made it look effortless. Hats off to the U17 boys for their dedication and sportsmanship—and to the adults who kept the team humming.
👉 Link: HFC United
Rosters Filling Quickly — Register Now!
HFC United aims to help every player, coach, referee, manager, and parent reach their full potential at every level. Image by HastingsNow.com/peter
HFC United sent out a final reminder that fall and spring/summer rosters are filling up fast. Despite the rush, there’s still time to secure a spot for your athlete. Parents are encouraged to register at hfcunited.org and reach out to director Caden HFC with questions. Youth sports rely on timely sign‑ups; don’t miss your chance to get on the field!
👉 Link: HFC United
Community Sports & Individuals
Martial Arts “Worlds 2025” Photo Celebration
The local martial arts community has plenty to celebrate. Morris Martial Arts – Hastings shared a “Worlds 2025 photo dump,” congratulating all participants. While details are scarce, the sentiment is clear: Hastings competitors made a splash at worlds. Think smiling faces, medals jangling and proud instructors. We’re thrilled to see martial artists representing our town on a global stage.
👉 Link: Morris Martial Arts
Lou Plevell Competes at the National Senior Games
HAST is cheering on Lou Plevell, a Masters swimmer competing at the National Senior Games in Des Moines. The post notes that swimming, sponsored by CareScout, is the sixth‑largest event at this year’s games, with 600+ swimmers converging on the Wellmark YMCA. Fans are encouraged to visit through Monday, July 28 to cheer on the athletes. Good luck, Lou—we’re rooting for you!
👉 Link: Hastings Area Swim Team (HAST)
Community Voices — Leave a Review at Erickson Marine
Local boat dealer Erickson Marine isn’t strictly sports, but it’s all about outdoor fun. The company thanked customers for their feedback and invited folks to leave a Google review. It’s a reminder that small businesses thrive on community support. If you’ve enjoyed a day on the river thanks to Erickson Marine, let them know!
👉 Link: Erickson Marine
Genesis Archery’s New Competition Arrow Rest
Hastings Raiders Archery fans received news of a new Genesis Competition Arrow Rest—a fresh piece of equipment for 2025. The brief announcement teased the upgrade without diving into specs, but archers can expect improved performance. Combined with other gear updates, it shows that Hastings’ archery program continues to evolve with the times.
👉 Link: Hastings Raiders Archery
Closing Thoughts
Sports in Hastings are about more than wins and losses; they’re about community, growth and pride. Whether you’re cheering on swimmers at the Aquatic Center, volunteering at a soccer tournament or celebrating a martial arts world champion, you’re part of our town’s story. For the full LOCAL 10, visit HastingsNow.com—you’ll find expanded coverage, interviews and photos. If you spot a misstatement or have a hot tip, drop us a line at HastingsNow.com/contact—our newsroom loves neighborly notes!
