Football

History in the Pines emblem white v2
1950s FB Scrimmage

record book

Dive into the program records and see the all-time greats who established them.

Battle Axe trophy 2023

trophy case

Browse the trophies claimed by Bemidji State Athletics, from the college's early years to today.

BSU Drone 21

team home

Explore every corner of the program, from schedules and stats to rosters and news.

NSIC championships

1947

1950

1957

1959

2006

2021

2022

NCAA Tournament appearances

2021

Sweet Sixteen

2022

Sweet Sixteen

2023

Sweet Sixteen

Bowl game appearances

2006

Mineral Water Bowl

L, 35-27 vs. Pittsburg State

2016

Mineral Water Bowl

W, 38-23 vs. Washburn

Explore more

Al Wolden became the first Bemidji State product to take the field in an NFL game when he was signed as a replacement player for the Chicago Bears during the 1987 players strike. (Courtesy / Bemidji Pioneer)

Bemidji’s Spare Bear: Al Wolden made BSU history as replacement player for Chicago Bears during ‘87 strike

For three weeks in the fall of 1987, Al Wolden had a chance to live out a dream most football players never see become reality. The Gonvick native and All-American running back for Bemidji State accomplished what no prior Beaver ever had: suiting up in an NFL game.

Chet Anderson square

‘The Chet’ pays homage to an iconic coach

Formally called Chet Anderson Stadium, the scenic field is synonymous with plenty of Bemidji teams, including football and soccer at Bemidji State University. But often lost in the convenience of the nickname is a knowledge of the stadium’s namesake.

A6_1944_UndefeatedFB022-scaled

The good, the bad and the quirky of Beaver Athletics

With over two dozen athletic programs and a century to work with, Bemidji State has had its fair share of oddities pile up.

Jolly Erickson headshot 2 square

Erickson’s coaching lives on in BSTC lore

With a quick scan through the coaching history of Bemidji State Athletics, one cheerful name is bound to pop up in more places than not. Hjalmer “Jolly” Erickson became a do-it-all coach for Bemidji State Teachers College after he first stepped on campus in the 1930s, earning the nickname “Mr. Athletics” with 17 years of experience on the Beaver sidelines.

Vikings in Bemidji 1961

The Minnesota Vikings launched on Lake Bemidji in 1961

In addition to the great lakes, fishing, golfing and other activities in the area, the 1961 Bemidji Visitor’s Guide promoted a new draw: professional football.