Grygla football field dedicated as Darwin Hagen Field

Last week, before the Chargers took on the Northern Freeze Tuesday, October 26th, a short ceremony was held dedicating the Grygla Football Field officially as the Darwin Hagen Field. 

Coach Hagen, pictured far right next to his sign, served as Head Coach for the Grygla Eagles in 1976. He also became the Head Coach for the Blue Devils in 1984. He retired from coaching after the 1997 season, but became an assistant again in 2007-2010.

Coach Hagen led the Blue Devils to 3 conference championships, a state semi-final appearance in 1989, and a state runner-up finish in 1991. Coach Hagen also had a direct impact on all of his players, with several of them going into coaching because of the impact that he made on their lives. 

Mike Gast says, “I learned so much from Darwin when we worked defense together. I also learned that preparation is so very important! He reinforced in me to work hard and be respectful of others. Darwin is a quiet, humble, and classy man. I learned a lot from him just by watching his actions. Congratulations to Darwin, it’s well deserved!”

Darwin’s family gathered with him as the field was officially dedicated. Coach Hagen appreciates the honor of the field dedication, thanking all the players, parents and coaches during his coaching career.