A member of the inaugural Concordia-St. Paul football team, Ron Hilk was a building block for the early Comets teams, playing a starring role on the offensive and defensive lines while also competing for the wrestling and track teams.
Working as a center on the offensive line and a tackle on the defensive line, the Waconia, Minnesota native helped the program hit the ground running as they registered at least four wins in each of their first four seasons, including a 6-2 record in 1970. Hilk joined forces with fellow CSP Athletic Hall of Fame members Darrell and David Golnitz on the offensive line to form the foundation for a dominant run game. Known for his powerful blocking and bone-jarring tackles, “Rowdy” was seen as a quiet and humble leader whose accomplishments spoke for themselves.
Hilk continued his playing career after graduation as he spent the 1973 season playing semi-pro football for the Madison Mustangs in the Central States League. He returned to Concordia the following season to work as a graduate assistant for the football team while pursuing a BS in education from the University of Minnesota.
His strong model of Christian leadership continued after his days at CSP as he worked as a teacher, coach and administrator at his high school alma mater, Mayer Lutheran High School, from 1977 until his retirement in 2008. During his tenure, Hilk served as head football coach, head wrestling coach, assistant track coach, head girls’ and boys’ golf coach, physical education teacher, health education teacher, driver’s education teacher and athletic director.
Ron is now retired and lives in Waconia with his wife, Miriam. Their three daughters, Emily, Melissa and Jessica, all completed teacher education programs and have begun their careers as teachers. He has been a lifelong member at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waconia where he has served as an elder along with various other roles. Ron’s hobbies include gardening, golfing, fishing and spending time with his four grandchildren.
Career Awards
- 1973 CSP Male Athlete of the Year
- 1972 NAIA All-America honorable mention
- 1972 Lutheran College All-America honorable mention
- 1972 NAIA All-District
- 1972 Tri-State All-Conference
- 1972 Team Most Valuable Player
- Four-year starter on the offensive and defensive lines
- Set school record with two interceptions returned for a touchdown
