St. Croix Lutheran Focused on Physicality, Growth, and Getting the Most from a Young Roster
With a fresh look in the trenches and a new quarterback leading the way, St. Croix Lutheran Academy is charging into the 2025 season with confidence and a no-nonsense offseason approach. Head Coach Adam Frey and his staff have been hard at work laying the physical and mental foundation for a team that, while young, is filled with promise and potential.
Offseason Focus: Strength, Speed & Subtle Offensive Tweaks
The Crusaders’ offseason blueprint has centered on one core mission: get faster, get stronger, get tougher. Coach Frey’s staff has focused on developing overall team athleticism, while also making targeted adjustments to the offensive scheme to better fit their evolving personnel.
Special Offseason Events: Building Skills and Camaraderie
To elevate both individual and team performance, St. Croix Lutheran will attend:
An individual skills camp at Augsburg University, helping athletes hone position-specific fundamentals.
A team camp at Martin Luther College, designed to build chemistry, reps, and confidence ahead of fall practices.
Roster Moves: Big Changes Up Front & New Signal Caller
The most notable shifts come on both lines and under center. The Crusaders will feature new starters on both the offensive and defensive lines and will also break in a new quarterback, signaling the start of a new era for the program.
Players to Watch: Versatile Veterans & Emerging Leaders
Keep your eye on these Crusaders this fall:
Colin Avery – A dynamic RB/WR/DB whose athleticism and versatility make him a playmaker in all three phases.
William Anderson – Stepping into the QB1 role, Anderson has shown promise in offseason sessions and will be key to leading the new-look offense.
Unique Training Culture: Crusader Underground
One of the program’s most unique offseason elements is a before-school training tradition known as Crusader Underground. Open to all, this 25-minute workout three days a week features a gritty mix of unconventional tools—empty kegs, tires, kettlebells, and more. It's a quick-hitting, high-intensity session that complements the team’s standard strength program and builds both toughness and unity.
Nutrition Guidance: Back to Basics
Coach Frey provides players with basic nutrition advice throughout the year, helping them make better day-to-day decisions without the need for a formal program.
Coaching Approach: Learning In-House
In a shift from the traditional coaching clinic route, the staff has created its internal development system. A full-day, in-house mini clinic allows for deeper collaboration and problem-solving specific to the team’s needs. “The staff loved it last year,” said Frey, “and we’re bringing it back again next weekend.”
Community Ties & Multi-Sport Culture
The Crusaders are deeply embedded in both the school and local sports ecosystem. Many players compete in other sports across the school and community, contributing to a well-rounded athletic experience and strong bonds that carry over into the football season.
Biggest Challenge: Youth Meets Opportunity
Coach Frey is clear about the biggest obstacle ahead: experience. “We have a pretty green team coming in next year,” he said, “but with lots of talent. We’ll have to grow them up quickly.” Still, with leaders like Avery and Anderson, an innovative training program, and a focused coaching staff, the Crusaders are equipped to make waves in 2025.
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