In a season filled with grit, determination, and unforgettable plays, University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks senior wide receiver Nate DeMontagnac has once again etched his name into the annals of college football excellence. For the second consecutive year, DeMontagnac has been honored with the prestigious Golden Star Award, recognizing him as the top performer in his position across the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC). This accolade, often dubbed “the best of the best” for its rigorous selection criteria, underscores DeMontagnac’s unwavering impact on the field and solidifies his legacy as one of UND’s all-time greats.
The announcement came during a packed press conference at the Alerus Center, where fans, teammates, and coaches erupted in cheers. “This is the best news we could hope for,” said head coach Bubba Schweigert, echoing the sentiment that has rippled through the Fighting Hawks community. “Nate’s dedication, leadership, and sheer talent have been the driving force behind our success this season. Winning this award again? It’s a testament to his hard work and the heart he brings every single day.”
### From High School Phenom to College Star
Hailing from Mississauga, Ontario, DeMontagnac’s journey to stardom began at Clarkson Football North, where he was named team MVP after his junior season and led his squad in touchdowns during both his junior and senior years. A memorable highlight from his prep days includes catching a Hail Mary pass from current UND teammate Quincy Vaughn to secure a historic victory against St. Ignatius (Ohio), a moment hailed by the Canadian Football League as one of the biggest wins in Canadian football history.
Arriving at UND in 2021, DeMontagnac redshirted his freshman year before bursting onto the scene as a redshirt freshman in 2022. That season, he appeared in 10 games, hauling in five receptions for 52 yards, recovering a blocked punt for nine yards, and notching a solo tackle on special teams. His sophomore year in 2023 was cut short by injury after seven games, but he still managed two catches for 23 yards.
It was in 2024, as a junior, where DeMontagnac truly shone, starting four games and playing in 11 total. He recorded 19 receptions for 238 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 12.53 yards per catch. Standout moments included a 38-yard grab in a 41-24 win over San Diego, a five-yard touchdown reception at Indiana State, and a 20-yard score at Illinois State. His contributions extended beyond offense, with two kick returns for 55 yards in a thrilling 27-24 victory over No. 4 Montana and a solo stop on special teams against Idaho State.
Now, in his senior year of 2025, DeMontagnac has elevated his game even further. Leading the team in receiving yards and touchdowns, he’s been a cornerstone of UND’s offensive strategy, helping propel the Fighting Hawks to a strong position in the MVFC standings. His ability to make clutch catches, break tackles, and inspire his teammates has made him indispensable.
### The Golden Star: A Symbol of Excellence
The Golden Star Award, presented annually by the MVFC, honors the conference’s premier wide receiver based on a combination of statistical performance, leadership qualities, and overall impact on team success. Criteria include receptions, yards, touchdowns, yards per catch, and contributions to special teams. DeMontagnac’s repeat win marks him as only the third player in conference history to achieve this feat, joining an elite group of athletes who’ve gone on to professional careers in the NFL and CFL.
“This award isn’t just about numbers—it’s about heart,” DeMontagnac shared in an emotional post-award interview. “I’ve been through injuries, tough losses, and moments of doubt, but my teammates and coaches believed in me. Winning it again feels surreal. It’s for the fans in Grand Forks who’ve supported us through thick and thin, and for my family back home in Ontario. I’m grateful beyond words.”
Teammates were quick to praise their star receiver. “Nate’s the guy you want in the huddle when the game’s on the line,” said quarterback Tommy Schuster. “He’s got that Canadian toughness—unbreakable. This award is well-deserved, and we’re all proud to call him a Hawk.”
### Looking Ahead: Legacy and the Road to the Playoffs
With the regular season winding down, DeMontagnac’s Golden Star win injects fresh momentum into UND’s playoff push. The Fighting Hawks, currently sitting at 7-3 overall and 5-2 in conference play, are eyeing a deep run in the FCS postseason. DeMontagnac’s leadership will be crucial as they face upcoming rivals, including a pivotal matchup against archrival North Dakota State.
Beyond college, scouts from the NFL and CFL have taken notice. At 6-3 and 195 pounds, with his blend of speed, route-running precision, and reliable hands, DeMontagnac is projected as a mid-round draft pick. But for now, his focus remains on the team. “We’ve got unfinished business,” he said. “This award is great, but a championship would be even better.”
For Fighting Hawks fans, DeMontagnac’s back-to-back Golden Star triumphs represent more than individual glory—it’s a beacon of hope for a program on the rise. As the snow begins to fall in Grand Forks, the warmth of this achievement will fuel the team through the winter grind. In the words of Coach Schweigert, “Nate’s story is what college football is all about: perseverance, passion, and proving the doubters wrong.”
The University of North Dakota community couldn’t agree more—this truly is the best news they could hope for.
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