Their dreams have come true

Since starting their organized football careers in the third grade, Lance Berends and Kooper Ebel have been teammates and friends. They've had different on-field roles, but they are similar in one important respect: They are truly impact players.

Their level of performance at Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn has not only impressed their coaches, but also those of opposing teams. Starting as sophomores, they have been recognized each year as the top lineman and the offensive MVP, respectively, of Class A District 1.

They are the only H-M-S players to be recognized with special individual district awards...