“Redefining what our best is” – Dordt football determined for more success in 2024

SIOUX CENTER, Iowa (KCAU) – Dordt accomplished plenty last season on the gridiron. But, a senior-heavy group featuring 38 seniors comes into this year as the 13th-ranked Defenders seek to become better than its best.

Dordt finished last season at 9-3, advancing to second round of the NAIA Football Championship Series where its season was ended with a 7-0 loss to Northwestern. Two of its three losses were by seven points or fewer. 2023 brought plenty of highlights for head coach Joel Penner and the Defenders. A dynamic offense led the GPAC in rushing, notching over 249 yards per game and 27 touchdowns.

Seeing even more glimpses of its potential along with the return of 18 starters, Dordt is determined to push for more.

“Our program has had a consistent track record of redefining what our best is. Last year certainly was that, but we’re looking to build off it. I don’t think there’s a magic formula. I think the ingredients are, with our program at least, knowing our why and keeping our purpose central. Penner said. Our guys love each other, they love playing together, they play for each other, and I think that’s our edge. We just have to keep trying to put it together.”

Dordt starts the year on September 7th with a road game at Midland. Kickoff set for 1 p.m.

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