Hanson Commits To Dickinson State University

Surrounded by his family, Malta High School senior Elijah "Eli" Hanson, a Mustang football standout last fall, revealed that he will continue his football career as a member of the Dickinson State University Blue Hawks.

Hanson's decision was made official on Wednesday, January 20, as the senior signed with the school alongside his father Yurii Hanson, mother Kerry Hanson, and his sisters Ava and Etta in the foyer of Malta High School.

Hanson was a Class B All-State selection in 2022. He was a First Team Selection at Defensive End and Second Team Selection at Tight End.

Hanson, who was listed at 6'5," and 205 pounds last fall, made life hard for quarterbacks at defensive end, despite being double and triple teamed by opposing teams. He compiled a stat line of 55 tackles, five tackles for loss, two sacks, and 18 quarterback pressures.

As a tight end, he hauled in eight catches for 134 yards and two touchdown receptions.

His efforts helped Malta to a 9-2 campaign in 2022, which included a playoff win against Red Lodge in the opening round.

Hanson said that he visited the Dickinson State University campus in December of 2022, and really liked the school and its facilities. He also spoke well of the coaches which include 2022 North Star Athletic Association Coach of the Year Pete Stanton and 2022 North Star Athletic Association Assistant Coach of the Year Russell McCarvel.

"The coaches that they have there are really good coaches," Hanson said. "I really like the town of Dickinson, their (football) program, and its facilities. It just seems like a really good football program and I cannot wait to be a part of it."

A recruiter was in town during a Malta football game last season and Hanson had continued to contact the school, and eventually sent in a highlight film.

"I sent in a highlight and they gave me an offer and I decided to take it," Hanson said.