OSAKIS, Minn.– Osakis Silverstreaks Football returns to the gridiron for the 2025 season. Led by their nine seniors, Osakis athletes set the tone from practice no. one.
“We came in with a lot of energy on the first day and it’s been good. I know the guys are excited for the games to start,” said Osakis head coach Bill Infanger.
It’s a squad that’s known for nothing but success. reaching the section 6AA championship game at the Fargodome six out of the last seven seasons under 16-year head coach Bill Infanger. To keep that streak going, he knows it starts with filling the execution, physicality, and energy last year’s 15 seniors left behind.
“We’re just looking for them to show that they’re learning the skills and the techniques that we want them to be executing in our varsity offense and defense,” said Infanger.
Battles for starting spots on the offensive and defensive lines are the biggest camp battles in Osakis early on. Coach Infanger knows his offense starts by being able to dominate in the run game.
“We always start with running the football on offense. We have to be physical upfront. We have to be able to. Minnesota weather in the playoffs, got to be thinking, ‘If we’re going to be successful, we have to have a ground game,” said Infanger.
But coach Infanger is also excited about what an experienced signal caller can do to take the offense to another level this fall.
“We’re looking for him to pick up right where he left off,” said Infanger. “Makes big plays for us with his arm and with his feet.”
Senior and second-year starter Trenton Bannyhuis is as confident as he’s ever been heading into his final season in red, black, and silver.
“I feel like throwing the ball and also being able to run the ball,” said Bannyhuis. “I’m very excited. I think I’m more excited this year than last year, just because it’s my senior year. It’s my last go at it. More energy, I think we have more energy and will to play football this year than last year.”
Senior left guard and nose guard Levi Middendorf is looking to pave the way for the Silverstreaks on each side of the line.
“Mostly, just making sure on the line, we’re all on the same page. And that we all work good together and get along. and have a good time while doing it,” said Middendorf.
Running through the offensive line in 2025 is tailback Simon Jacobson.
“I don’t know, it’s all instinct. just make a cut and make a play,” said Jacobson. “Reading the blocks, making the plays. It’s fun and it’s energetic. I love the adrenaline rush.”
His favorite football memory was making the state tournament in 2023. Now, Jacobson wants to get back to that stage in his final year in Osakis and make new memories along the way.
“Really excited,” said Jacobson. It’s a fun sport, very team-like. It should be a good time.”
The season kicks off August 28 at St. Cloud Apollo. A new look district and section for Osakis will be filled with local rivals Minnewaska Area, Holdingford, and Melrose. Coach Infanger and company know they can make it a special season for themselves and the Silverstreak faithful.
“Who knows where we will end up at the end of these season but I do feel like we have a culture and an expectation to be successful here in Osakis,” said Infanger. “I know our guys feel that. They are excited to get going and prove what they can do.”