Working-class identity keep thump in South St. Paul football

Healthy doses of option football, solid defense and a vested community distinguish South St. Paul's program from those of struggling first-ring suburbs.

Hitting their stride the past four seasons, the Packers posted a combined 35-10 record while earning state tournament trips in 2011 and 2013 under coach Chad Sexauer. He reminded players after an early-season practice to "have a thump to your game."

Blue-collar kids. Working-class identity. Nothin' fancy.

"We play against bigger schools that have more players so we know we have to outwork them," senior defensive end Rito Cortez said. "When you have a lot more players, it's easier to find talent. We work for it."

Assistant coach Paul Miller, a 1968 South St. Paul graduate, sweat and ran and hit alongside many teammates whose fathers worked in the meatpacking plants and one who sat on the Minnesota Supreme Court.

"None of that mattered on the field, and it's the same way today," said Miller, who later coached Apple Valley to three state football championships. "We're a more diverse community now, but on Friday nights we all come together."

Alumni such as Miller give of their time and experience. Others, such as former Gopher and Packer Jim Carter (class of 1966), provide financial support. Lions Club members operate a sideline cannon to celebrate touchdowns during home games on Ettinger Field, affectionately known as The Pit.

"We think we're a small town, and we're all going to work hard and do everything right," Jaden said. "You've got to work hard and never back down."