Minnesota high school football star Mason West caps off illustrious career with state title victory.
West, the 29th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, took one final knee to seal Edina High School's 42-35 win in the Minnesota state-title game on Friday, bringing a sense of closure to his high school football career. The moment was overwhelming for West, who finally felt able to let go of his emotions after working so hard all season.
West had always been passionate about football, but he also knew that his time playing the sport was limited due to his commitment to pursuing hockey at the next level. Despite facing skepticism from some in the hockey community, West's decision to return to football paid off in a big way.
"I don't really know what to do in those moments," West said after the game. "You're in shock a little bit. You just stand there in awe, looking around. It doesn't really feel real." West's teammates and coaches echoed his sentiments, praising him for his leadership and work ethic throughout the season.
West's journey was not without its challenges. Edina High School went only 4-4 in the regular season, and many doubted that they would be able to make a deep run in the playoffs. However, with West at the helm, they were able to overcome adversity and ultimately secure their state title.
"It's been an incredible ride," West said. "I'm just proud of how our team fought through adversity all year and got through that final game. It was just a blast." The victory marked a special moment for West, who will now have to balance his passion for hockey with the demands of competing at the next level.
"I would just say 'do what you want to do,'" West said. "Don't let someone else persuade you into doing something you don’t want to do. It's your decision." West's commitment to following his dreams and staying true to himself is a lesson that will serve him well in whatever path he chooses to pursue.
With the state title under his belt, West will now turn his attention to hockey. He will join the Fargo Force for the rest of the U.S. Hockey League season before moving on to Michigan State University next season. Despite the challenges ahead, West remains focused and determined.
"It's going to be a lot of work, a lot of skating," he said. "But I'm ready for it."
West, the 29th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, took one final knee to seal Edina High School's 42-35 win in the Minnesota state-title game on Friday, bringing a sense of closure to his high school football career. The moment was overwhelming for West, who finally felt able to let go of his emotions after working so hard all season.
West had always been passionate about football, but he also knew that his time playing the sport was limited due to his commitment to pursuing hockey at the next level. Despite facing skepticism from some in the hockey community, West's decision to return to football paid off in a big way.
"I don't really know what to do in those moments," West said after the game. "You're in shock a little bit. You just stand there in awe, looking around. It doesn't really feel real." West's teammates and coaches echoed his sentiments, praising him for his leadership and work ethic throughout the season.
West's journey was not without its challenges. Edina High School went only 4-4 in the regular season, and many doubted that they would be able to make a deep run in the playoffs. However, with West at the helm, they were able to overcome adversity and ultimately secure their state title.
"It's been an incredible ride," West said. "I'm just proud of how our team fought through adversity all year and got through that final game. It was just a blast." The victory marked a special moment for West, who will now have to balance his passion for hockey with the demands of competing at the next level.
"I would just say 'do what you want to do,'" West said. "Don't let someone else persuade you into doing something you don’t want to do. It's your decision." West's commitment to following his dreams and staying true to himself is a lesson that will serve him well in whatever path he chooses to pursue.
With the state title under his belt, West will now turn his attention to hockey. He will join the Fargo Force for the rest of the U.S. Hockey League season before moving on to Michigan State University next season. Despite the challenges ahead, West remains focused and determined.
"It's going to be a lot of work, a lot of skating," he said. "But I'm ready for it."
Yooo, just watched this story about Mason West and I'm totally stoked for him! He's got heart, man... played football even though everyone thought hockey was his thing. And now he's gonna crush it on the ice too 
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He's all about following his passion and staying true to himself, which is def inspiring. I mean, can you imagine having to balance two super competitive sports? 
That takes major dedication! Anyway, congrats to Mason West and the Edina High School squad on that state title win 
I mean, what if Mason West was actually crazy to give up hockey? Like, most scouts would've thought he'd be all-in on hockey with that 2025 NHL Draft pick, but instead he goes back to football and still manages to lead his team to a state title. That's some level of dedication right there 
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he's gonna be a hockey star too, can't wait 2 c how far he'll go 
It's so inspiring to see someone follow their passion and stay true to themselves - "do what you want to do" is such good advice 
. Now, I'm sure it won't be easy balancing hockey with college ball, but West seems like he's got his priorities straight 
. Here's to an amazing future in the NHL and beyond! 
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wests gonna have to deal with all that pressure in hockey like his career is already over lol just saw that edina high school had like only 4 wins this season tho how was west expected to lead them to a state title anyway? and dont even get me started on the nhl draft lol being picked 29th overall isnt exactly a dream come true 
i mean, goin thru a tough season at 4-4 and then makin it all the way to state title? that's what we call determination 
. As he transitions to hockey, West's focus and determination are admirable qualities that will serve him well in the U.S. Hockey League season 
️. Bring on the challenges ahead! 
. It's like, totally relatable for anyone who's ever felt pressure from others about their goals or dreams. Anyway, congrats to Mason on an amazing career and I'm excited to see what the future holds for him in both hockey and life 