Minnesota prep football teams have officially kicked off their preseasons.

Tuesday marked Blane Tetreault’s second official day leading practice for Duluth East as their new head football coach. He brings in about a decade of collegiate coaching experience at the University of St. Thomas and Rowan University.

“A new season, we’re building it from the ground up here. Trying to build a new foundation with this program in every way,” Tetreaul said. “Really striving to build young guys and gals, we do have a young gal out, so young people of strong character who really strive to excel.”

Tetreault takes over for former head coach Joe Hietala, who was placed on administrative leave last September.

The Greyhounds themselves are excited for a new year, seeking their first winning season since 2020.

“I’m really excited about this season,” Sam Benson said, a senior wide receiver/safety. “We got a new coach, new system. It’s really fun learning the new system and that’s the biggest part. We get a whole new playbook, and I’m just excited (to) go against other teams because it’s just something new. Try new plays out and just new feel for everything.”

“Yeah, very excited. I think we have a great team and I really think we’ll do much better than last year. I’m just really excited to start honestly,” Talen Sebok said, a senior right tackle/nose guard.

Duluth East kicks off their season opener Thursday, August 29 visiting Esko at 6 p.m.