The UMD football team officially welcomed 32 to their 2024 recruiting class on Wednesday, including three Northlanders.

“With the transfer portal right now, it’s going to continue to be our goal as a football program to recruit high school student athletes,” said head coach Curt Wiese. “That’s got to start in our own backyard and to be able to get what we think are three of the best in the Northland, as far as physicality and maturity and the ability for these guys to impact our football program early on in their careers.

The local Bulldogs are defensive lineman Zachary Bentler of Two Harbors, wide receiver Peyton Menzel of Hermantown, and offensive lineman David Lundstrom of Duluth East.

Bentler was a four year starter for the Agates, serving as a captain for two seasons, while earning all-conference status as a junior and senior.

With the Hawks, Menzel set school records in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns in both a single season and career.

Lundstrom is a third generation Bulldog. His father, Eric, ran track and field, and his grandfather, Edmond, played and coached football at UMD.

“My grandpa went there. My dad went there. I’m just excited to keep it in the family,” said Lundstrom. “I’m a third generation Bulldog, so I’m excited. My time here at East has been good. I started playing football my sophomore year and the coaches are always there for me, helping me out, the teachers are helpful. Next year I’m looking forward to playing against Bemidji.”

David’s grandfather, Ed, was inducted into the UMD Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007.

The 2024 UMD football season will mark the program’s 90th year of intercollegiate football.