Thrill of the chill: The Polars gave North High football fans a season to remember

North High celebrated earlier this season hoisting a familiar piece of hardware, a 3A section championship trophy. Photo by Clarence Ransom

Photos by Azhae’la Hanson and Clarence Ransom, North News

The North Minneapolis Polars marched in the Class 3A state semifinal game with an 11-0 record. But its opponent, Annandale, did, too. The Cardinals wound up the better team on Nov. 15 with a 36-20 victory over North at U.S. Bank Stadium.

North went toe to toe with their opponent, tying the score at 14 going into halftime. Annandale pushed ahead in the second half and never looked back.

Northsiders and Polars of all ages traveled to support their team, cheering loudly until the clock hit zero.

Freshman Antoinio Brown runs the flag across the field to kick off the Polars' 3A semifinal match against Annandale. Photo by Azhae’la Hanson

North last won a state title in 2016 and finished second twice in 2015 and 2020. 

After the game, coaches gathered in the locker room and told players to keep their heads up. Players and coaches described a brotherhood stronger than they’ve ever seen in this year's team. 

The night ended with three claps.

“There are teams in the state that do less with more,” offensive Coach Tom Lachermeier said. “We were bare bones, but we found a way. I am disappointed we lost, but I could not be more proud of this group.” 

North High School hosted a community send-off for the Polars the day before the game. Principal Mauri Friestleben hugs wide receiver Cordae Williams. Photo by Azhae’la Hanson

Quarterback Logan Lachermeier looks for a hole in Annandale's defense. He’s also been named a top finalist for Mr. Football.  Photo by Azhae’la Hanson

Tyshone Jenkins celebrates with teammates after a touchdown in the first half. Photo by Clarence Ransom 

The Polar crowd gets a second wind of excitement after seeing J’Marion Sanders score a touchdown in the last quarter. Photo by Azhae’la Hanson

Wide receiver J’Marion Sanders narrowly avoids Annandale's defense. Photo by Clarence Ransom 

Assistant coach Craig Merritt comforts wide receiver J’Marion Sanders on the sideline as the clock counts down. Photo by Clarence Ransom

Denaja O’Neal looks at the scoreboard and sheds tears near the end of the fourth quarter. A senior, this was her last football game. Photo by Azhae’la Hanson

As the last few minutes of the game ran out, Ronell Willis Jr, left, comforted Cordae Williams on the sideline. It was both players' senior year. Photo by Azhae’la Hanson

Players hold up their finalist trophy for fans at U.S. Bank Stadium. Photo by Azhae’la Hanson