The Fighting Hawks Take Flight: University of North Dakota Football 2025

University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks Football is officially underway and the coaching staff is inviting everyone to join the team…as the all-important 12th player! The whole crowd is expected to be on their feet cheering after every touchdown, tackle and takeaway and since we have a squad stacked with premier athletes, don’t anticipate spending very much time in your seat. With a fresh sense of determination and a new coach at the helm, the Fighting Hawks are ready to soar to new heights in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) and beyond.

Photo credit: Alerus Center

The 2025 season marks the beginning of a new chapter for UND football, as Eric Schmidt takes over as head coach. A former UND standout and assistant coach, Schmidt brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the program's culture. His leadership promises to blend tradition with innovation, creating a team that honors its roots while embracing modern strategies. Schmidt’s vision for the Fighting Hawks is clear: a disciplined, hard-hitting team that excels on both sides of the ball. Fans can expect a renewed focus on defensive intensity, a hallmark of Schmidt’s coaching philosophy, paired with a dynamic and adaptable offense.

Photo credit: Alerus Center

Game goers will also be able to enjoy all the indoor comforts of the Alerus Center, including their jumbotron screens that highlight each play and capture every bit of the action. A few of the Alerus’ more recent enhancements are an updated sound system, state-of-the-art LED sports lighting and on-field suites, a first-of-its-kind experience for UND football fans. Located at the southeast corner of the end zone, these suites offer an up-close and personal view of the action that’s simply unmatched. Feeling hungry? Make sure to check out the concession areas featuring an assortment of scrumptious eats and drinks. You’ll find everything from hamburgers and prime rib sandwiches to pizza and taco-in-a-bag…with an ice-cold cocktail, beer or soda pop chaser. Looking to sport some stylish new UND logo wear? They’ve (literally) gotcha covered there, too! The Hawk Shop is located on the concourse level and features the latest, greatest Green & White apparel.

Starting this fall, the Alerus Center has embraced a modern, cashless payment system. From parking to concessions, fans can now use debit cards, credit cards, pre-paid cards or gift cards for all purchases. This shift not only speeds up transactions but also ensures a smoother, more efficient experience for everyone. So, don’t forget to bring your card for a hassle-free game day!

If y’all would like to participate in some pre-game fun, make sure to stop by Tailgate Village about 2½ hours prior to kick-off. The Alerus Center south parking lot will be filled with live music, food vendors, merchandise sales, yard games and giant inflatables for the kids. Who knows, some friendly tailgater might even invite you over for a bite and a brew! UND tailgating is known for its welcoming and inclusive vibe. It’s a place where families, students, alumni, locals and visitors come together to share food, stories and camaraderie.

2025 Home Games

2025 Home Games

  • September 6 at 6 PM vs. Portland State (Potato Bowl USA)
  • September 20 at 3 PM vs. Valparaiso (Homecoming/Hall of Fame)
  • October 11 at 3 PM vs. Youngstown State (Family Weekend)
  • October 25 at 3 PM vs. Indiana State (Military Appreciation)
  • November 8 at 1 PM vs. North Dakota State
  • November 22 at 1 PM vs. South Dakota State (Senior Day)

Tickets for UND Football may be purchased by going to FightingHawks.com or in person at the Alerus Center Transystems Box Office, from 10 AM to 5 PM, Monday-Friday and on game days.University of North Dakota football and tailgating are about more than just sports – they’re about community, tradition and creating memories that last a lifetime. Whether cheering from the stands or grilling in the parking lot, you're part of something bigger: a family of Fighting Hawks fans who share a love for the game and a passion for UND. Here’s to a season of grit, glory and gridiron greatness!

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