The Willmar Cardinals have deployed an unconventional strategy to secure their path to the state tournament, renting a helicopter to physically dry Hodapp Field ahead of Friday night’s Section 2AAAA championship. With 1.7 inches of rain recorded since Monday, the top-seeded Cardinals moved their Tuesday practice to an inflated dome at St. John’s University to preserve the natural turf. Now, Scott’s Helicopter Service from Le Sueur, Minnesota, will fly over the stadium between 1:30 and 2:00 p.m. Thursday, using rotor wash to accelerate evaporation and ensure the field is game-ready for the 7:00 p.m. kickoff against second-seeded Marshall.
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The operation represents a coordinated effort between the school district, the City of Willmar, and local police and fire departments, all working to mitigate the weather-related risk to the high-stakes matchup. While the 100 Yard Club President Tony Amon confirmed the booster club is covering the full cost of the rental, he declined to disclose the specific price tag. This financial commitment underscores the program’s determination to avoid a washout or a move to an alternate venue, as Willmar seeks to return to the state tournament for the first time since 2018.
Coach Jon Konold initiated the request on Tuesday, recognizing that standard drying methods were insufficient given the volume of precipitation. The decision highlights the lengths high school programs will go to protect home-field advantage in critical postseason games. If the aerial intervention succeeds, the Cardinals will host Marshall on a playable surface, keeping their momentum intact as they aim to extend their winning streak and claim the Section 2AAAA title.
Source: Yahoo Sports
