October 19, 2026

MADISON, S.D. — Dakota State (S.D.) quarterback Tray Hettick was named the Erck Hotels/Frontier Conference Football Offensive Player of the Week Monday after leading the Trojans to a 42-21 victory over Valley City State (N.D.) Saturday afternoon at Lokken Stadium in Valley City, N.D.

Hettick delivered an impressive performance through the air, completing 27 of his 32 pass attempts for 351 yards and four touchdowns without an interception. He completed 84.4 percent of his passes while averaging nearly 11 yards per attempt.

The Trojan quarterback directed an offense that accumulated 482 total yards, including 351 passing yards, as Dakota State snapped its two-game losing skid and earned its first Frontier Conference East Division victory of the season.

Hettick threw three touchdown passes during the second quarter, helping the Trojans build a 28-14 halftime advantage.

After Valley City State tied the game at 7-7 early in the second quarter, Hettick connected with Maddox Kihne for a 9-yard touchdown pass to regain the lead at 14-7.

With the score tied at 14-14 late in the first half, Hettick found Tim Halbur for a 34-yard touchdown reception to put Dakota State ahead for good. He added a 5-yard touchdown pass to Kihne with 39 seconds remaining before halftime, extending the Trojans' lead to 28-14.

Hettick continued his strong performance in the second half, connecting with Terik Streets for a 24-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter after the Vikings trimmed the deficit to 28-21.
His performance helped Kihne produce a career day with 11 receptions for 152 yards and two touchdowns.

The award marks Hettick's second Erck Hotels/Frontier Conference Offensive Player of the Week recognition this season. He previously received the honor Aug. 31 following Dakota State's season-opening 35-27 victory over Dakota Wesleyan (S.D.).

Hettick currently leads the NAIA in total passing with 2,624 yards and tied for most touchdown passes with 26 for the Trojans.  His 2,624 passing yards is currently third most single season in DSU school record book, as well as his 26 passing touchdowns being third most single season.

Dakota State improved to 5-3 overall and 1-2 in Frontier Conference East Division play. The Trojans also extended their winning streak against Valley City State to four consecutive games.

The Trojans have a bye week Saturday before returning to action Oct. 31, hosting Mayville State (N.D.) in their final home game of the season. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Brian Kern Family Stadium on Blankley Field in Madison, S.D.