High School KickOff

1,976

and 26

just two interceptions on 114-of-179 passing, while adding 1,159 yards and 23 scores on 151 carries as a senior in 2023.

25 YEARS OF GREATNESS

OLIVIA JANIK ojanik@madison.com

The high school football teams in the WiscNews coverage area have won five state titles, appeared in eight state championship games and had two Gatorade Players of the Year since 2000.

Ahead of the 2025 football season, we honor the top players from the last 25 years

with our All-WiscNews Quarter-Century Team. Players were selected for their individual statistics as well as their team’s overall performance.

The team was selected based on WFCA All-State teams and the expertise of a panel of long-time area coaches.

The WiscNews area includes the following schools: Baraboo, Beaver Dam,

Cambria-Friesland, Columbus, Dodgeland, Fall River, Horicon, Hustisford, Lodi, Mauston, Pardeeville, Portage, Poynette, Randolph, Reedsburg, Rio, Sauk Prairie, Waupun, Wayland Academy and Wisconsin Dells.

Now let’s get to the team.

Greatness

OFFENSE

Mason Lane, QB, Lodi class of 2023

Mason Lane will go down as one of the best quarterbacks in Lodi program history. He finished his career with 220 completions, 3,347 yards passing, and 38 passing touchdowns while completing 63% of his passes. He also rushed for 2,672 yards and 45 more scores.

Lane made the most of his senior season, leading Lodi to its second state title in program history. He threw for 220 yards and three touchdowns, including a 67-yard pass to wide receiver Aiden Groskopf that put the Blue Devils on the board, in the WIAA 2022 Division 4 championship game.

Lane is a redshirt freshman running back at the University of Wisconsin.

R.J. Shelton, RB, Beaver Dam class of 2013

R.J. Shelton is one of the most successful players in Beaver Dam history. He helped the team win 21 games in his four seasons with the Golden Beavers, more than they had in the five seasons before he joined the team.

Shelton amassed 5,092 yards and 72 touchdowns on 612 carries, all program records. He had seven games with at least 200 yards rushing in 2011, which is tied for fourth-most by any player in state football history, according to WisSports.net. He finished his career with 12 games with at least 200 yards rushing. He earned allstate honors as a senior from both the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association and Associated Press. Shelton went to Michigan State, where he moved to wide receiver and continued to excel. He signed a training camp contract with the Minnesota Vikings in 2017, then played for the Ottawa Redblacks in the Canadian Football League in 2018 and 2019. He played with the Massachusetts Pirates in the Indoor Football League in 2021.

KICKOFF 2025

Colton Brunell, RB, Columbus class of 2024

Colton Brunell assembled a record-breaking career during his three seasons at Columbus.

He owns the state’s career rushing record with 7,416 yards, becoming the first Wisconsin player ever to eclipse 7,000.

Brunell helped the Cardinals go undefeated and capture their second state title with a 23-21 win over Waukesha Catholic Memorial as a junior. He finished the 2022 WIAA Division 4 state title game with 186 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Brunell finished the season with 2,897 yards and 43 touchdowns on the ground, according to WisSports.net.

Brunell and the Cardinals weren’t able to defend their title in 2023, but the running back had another tremendous season,

capturing the state’s Gatorade Player of the Year award. He ran for 2,298 yards and 32 touchdowns.

Brunell is now a redshirt freshman at North Dakota.

Shane Wimann, WR, Wisconsin Dells class of 2013

Shane Wimann, the 2012 South Central Conference MVP, still holds the Wisconsin Dells record for most receptions in a season with 72 during his senior campaign. He finished that season with 869 yards receiving and 13 touchdowns.

Along with his conference MVP win, Wimann earned all-state, all-area and all-conference honors for his dominant performance.

Wimann’s best game came against conference rival Mauston, where he had three touchdowns

on five receptions in a 35-0 win.

Wimann went on to play tight end at Northern Illinois, where he still holds the record for most receiving touchdowns by a tight end in a season (seven) and career (17).

Nick Scharpf, WR, Horicon class of 2007

Nick Scharpf helped Horicon go undefeated in the Flyway Conference and finish with a 12-1 record overall in his senior season. Scharpf and the Marshmen made it all the way to 2006 WIAA Division 5 semifinals before losing 42-23 to Lancaster.

Scharpf gained 902 yards on 38 catches with 16 touchdowns during that 2006 campaign. He was named to the all-district first team and all-state second team.

Scharpf helped turn the

Marshmen into a top program during his junior season. They went 4-0 in conference play and 9-2 overall, a dramatic improvement from their one-win season in 2004.

Scharpf went on to play wide receiver at Minnesota StateMoorhead from 2007 to 2010.

Reed Cunningham, TE, Pardeeville class of 2005

Reed Cunningham finished his Pardeeville career with 84 receptions, 1,489 yards receiving and 16 touchdowns.

Cunningham helped lead Pardeeville to a 7-3 record and secure a playoff berth in his senior season. He tallied 517 yards and six touchdowns to earn first-team all-state honors that year.

please see GREATNESS, page 3

KICKOFF 2025

Greatness

Cunningham had 33 receptions, 594 yards receiving and five touchdowns as a junior. He was named an all-state honorable mention and first-team all-region.

Cunningham also played defensive line for the Bulldogs and was named to the all-state team for his play there as a senior.

He went on to play tight end at Northern Illinois from 2005-09.

Tower Menning, OL, Poynette class of 2015

Poynette went 19-11 and finished second in the Capitol Conference in 2014 during Tower Menning’s three years as a starting lineman for Poynette. He was named to the all-state team as both an offensive and defensive lineman in 2014 and was the Capitol Conference Offensive Lineman

of the Year.

Menning and the rest of the Poynette offensive line held opponents to just 6.5 sacks in 11 games in his senior season. Poynette earned a No. 3 seed in the 2014 WIAA Division 5 playoffs but fell in the second round to eventual champion Lancaster.

Menning played on the offensive line at Georgetown from 2015-18.

Josh Seltzner, OL, Columbus class of 2017

Josh Seltzner was one of the top linemen to come out of Columbus before becoming an All-American for the Badgers. Seltzner was a first-team all-conference defensive tackle his sophomore and junior seasons before making the move to offensive line his senior year. He earned all-state honors and was named the Capitol North Conference Offensive Lineman of the Year as a senior.

Columbus went 11-1, won the Capitol North title and made it to

the 2016 WIAA Division 5 football quarterfinals in his final year of high school.

Seltzner walked on at Wisconsin before earning a scholarship his redshirt freshman season. He was an AP All-American and firstteam All-Big Ten (coaches’ vote) during his senior season in 2021.

Collin Selk, OL, Columbus class of 2023

Collin Selk’s presence on the Columbus offensive line helped the program secure its first state championship in more than 25 years in 2022. Selk and the Cardinals defeated Waukesha Catholic Memorial 23-21 to win the 2022 WIAA Division 4 state title and cap an undefeated season. It was the third undefeated season in team history.

Selk and the rest of the Columbus offensive line held opponents to seven sacks and eight forced fumbles across 14 games his senior year.

Selk earned all-state honors on

the offensive and defensive lines as a senior and was an honorable mention at both positions as a junior. He committed to play football at Minnesota State but medically retired after his redshirt freshman season.

Randy Gyllin, OL, Mauston class of 2002

Randy Gyllin was one of the Golden Eagles’ best offensive linemen. Gyllin helped his team appear in back-to-back WIAA Division 3 Level 3 playoff games in 2000 and 2001. Mauston had one of its best seasons in program history in 2000, going undefeated in South Central Conference play with a 10-2 overall record. The Golden Eagles went 9-3 in Gyllin’s senior season. He went on to play at Wisconsin and UW-La Crosse.

Cody Endres, OL, Lodi class of 2010

Cody Endres was a force to be reckoned with on Lodi’s offensive line. He helped the Blue Devils go 9-2 and win their conference as a junior in 2008. He earned

first-team all-conference honors and all-area honorable mention for his efforts.

Endres continued to be a stone wall on the offensive line the next season. Lodi won 11 games in a season for the first time in program history and claimed its second straight Capitol North Conference title. Endres earned all-state honorable mention and was a finalist for the Joe Thomas Offensive Lineman of the Year award from WisSports.net.

Tyler Yelk, K, Poynette class of 2004

Tyler Yelk was an all-star kicker for Poynette before becoming one of the best defenders in program history at Minnesota-Duluth. Yelk helped Poynette advance to the 2003 WIAA Division 5 state title game, where he made two field goals and an extra point in the Pumas’ 30-13 loss to Brillion. Yelk set a pair of records in the loss. His 55-yard field goal was the longest in Division 5 title game history, and his two converted field

5 intriguing storylines this season

Renewed rivalries, new playoff system top things to watch

The leadup to opening kickoff has always been something I’ve looked forward to, going back to my playing days to now as a reporter.

The WiscNews area this fall is loaded with interesting teams and topics that have piqued my interest.

Here are five intriguing storylines I’m looking forward to this season.

Wisconsin Football Playoff Matrix makes debut

Which teams reach the postseason won’t be decided by just conference record this fall.

The Wisconsin Football Playoff Matrix will determine playoff qualifiers after the WIAA Board of Control passed the measure Feb. 5. The new points-based qualification system, which was developed by Madison Edgewood coach Jesse Norris and Edgewood assistant Andy LaVoy in collaboration with the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association executive board, was passed 10-1 by the 11-person committee.

Teams will accrue Tier 1 and Tier 2 points through both nonconference and conference play, with the combined total serving as the determining factor for the predetermined seven 52-team divisions.

Bitter neighbors Baraboo and portage will meet for the first time since 2021 this season, ending a four-year hiatus in the longtime rivalry.

Both the points system and predetermined divisions are new twists.

The entire state previously comprised the pool for finding the 224-team qualifying field, with conference records being the primary determining factor.

The fact that every team will know its divisional placement — and precisely who its competition will be within its class for the 32 playoff spots in that division — is a big plus, but I still am curious to see how this first year of the new system plays out, including the WIAA’s and WFCA’s transparency

during the season after last year’s controversial omission of Madison West and Greenfield.

Longtime

rivalry returns; another bids farewell

It’s been four years, but neighboring rivals Baraboo and Portage will meet for the first time since 2021 on Aug. 28 at Flambeau Field in Baraboo.

The WIAA’s footballonly conference realignment sent the Thunderbirds and Reedsburg to the Mississippi Valley

Conference, while the Warriors have remained in the Badger Small. While the games between the rivals separated by 21 miles haven’t always been close during my reporting career — Baraboo rolled 38-0 in their most recent meeting — the atmospheres have been great.

I’m looking forward to how big of a crowd the teams’ rivalry renewal draws, and I hope it continues going forward.

I am similarly intrigued by the final rivalry game between CambriaFriesland and Randolph. The Columbia County foes tied for second place in the Trailways Conference last season but are set to join forces in a newly formed co-op starting next fall.

The Hilltoppers and Rockets already team together in other sports, but not previously in football. Having seen how well both fan bases travel — the teams’ 2022 Division 5 boys basketball sectional final overtime thriller was jam-packed — I expect the same for the final game as foes Sept. 12.

Early Capitol clash precedes title push

Speaking of rivals, the yearly game between Lodi and Columbus has become a personal favorite in my decade on the beat.

The Blue Devils and Cardinals continually have been in the mix for not just the Capitol Conference title. Columbus captured the 2022 Division 4 state championship for its third title in program history, while Lodi won its second Division 4 crown in 2023.

I wouldn’t be surprised if both teams make deep postseason runs again this

majority of its offense and defense, including its two leading rushers and four of its top five tacklers from last season. It not only makes the Beavers favorites to repeat as league champs — a potential first since the team joined the MVC in 2022 — but sets them up to make a playoff run.

The Beavers haven’t advanced past the second round of the WIAA playoffs since 2015, the second of back-to-back Division 3 state semifinal appearances.

Don’t be too surprised if Reedsburg winds up being one of the final Division 3 teams playing this season.

Improving programs still on rise?

A couple programs delivered some of their best seasons in recent memory last season.

fall with both teams boasting talented rosters. They won’t have to wait long to get a measure of the other’s talent.

Lodi and Columbus open conference play against each other Sept. 5.

The Cardinals look to follow last season’s 42-14 romp as part of their unbeaten league ledger.

While the result could be pivotal in this year’s Capitol race, I’m more interested in seeing which team is in better position to add more weight behind its state title push.

Reedsburg eyes 2nd straight crown in Mississippi Valley

Reedsburg was part of one of the most unusual things I’ve seen in my reporting career when it was part of a five-way tie for the Mississippi Valley Conference title last fall.

It was a great accom-

plishment given the team went 1-8, including 0-7 in league play, in 2023. While a heartbreaking one-point

loss to Waukesha Catholic Memorial in the second round of the Division 3 playoffs ended the ride, I

think even bigger things could be in store for the Beavers this fall. Reedsburg returns the

Beaver Dam won a share of its first conference title since 1983 and reached the second round of the Division 2 playoffs. Meanwhile, Waupun snapped its 17-year postseason drought and returned to the playoffs for the fifth time in program history.

Elsewhere, Poynette ended a three-year playoff skid, and Wisconsin Dells made a program-best fifth straight postseason, while Sauk Prairie returned to the playoffs after a fiveyear hiatus.

Outside of the Chiefs, none of the programs really had made a deep postseason run in recent years — Wisconsin Dells advanced to the state quarterfinals in 2021 — which has me wondering who among the five teams will best continue its upward momentum this season.

contact Sean davis at sdavis@wiscnews.com.

New talent at QB for Golden Beavers

Ladron worked with former Big Ten QB to improve his skills

MARK MCMULLEN

mmcmullen@wiscnews.com

Beaver Dam entered last season on a mission to prove that it could compete with other East Central Conference football teams.

“I don’t know if we necessarily took anyone by surprise,” coach Brock Linde said. “I think a lot of people have seen us rise over the last couple of years and make a couple playoff appearances. It was really nice to maximize those opportunities last year.”

The Golden Beavers won the East Central Conference title with a 6-0 record. They did lose to Mount Horeb/ Barneveld in a crossover

game, but that didn’t count toward their conference record.

“If our culture stays strong and our leadership is still up there, I feel like we will be good,” Beaver Dam senior Charley Kircher said.

Linde is happy with how last season turned out for the Golden Beavers (9-2), who won their WIAA Division 2 playoff opener at Menasha before falling to Kaukauna in the second round.

“We’re excited to get going,” Linde said.

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Golden Beavers.

Junior

Ladron

is new quarterback

Beaver Dam junior Jaxon Ladron has been making headway as the team’s

st arting quarterback after moving up to varsity during the Golden Beavers’ playoff run last season.

Linde said it was pivotal to watch three-year starter Eli Bryant, see what the playbook looks like and practice with older players.

“He’s bought in and I’m excited for him to show everybody he can be the next guy for us,” Linde said.

Ladron started working with a quarterback coach, former Mayville and University of Minnesota QB Benji Kamrath, to improve his footwork in the pocket, arm strength and accuracy.

“I’m really working on making sure I’m able to get

The skinny

Coach: Brock linde, sixth season, 22-24

Last season: 9-2, 1st in the east central conference; lost 48-21 to Kaukana in second round of division 2 playoffs

Returning players:

parker Blank, sr., rB/ dB/pK; ashtyn seifert, jr., Wr/dB; eli Johnson, sr., ol/dl; charley Kircher, sr., ol/dl; caleb deZarn, jr., ol/dl

my foot down, being able to throw under anything and being able to get out of the pocket and throw all kinds of passes we need to during games,” Ladron said.

Ladron also has attended camps. His strength and mechanics to make better throws have improved and his confidence has increased. He also has worked with returning receivers junior Ashtyn Seifert and senior Eli Johnson to build chemistry before the season.

“I’m starting to make more throws really accurate,” Ladron said. “I’m trusting my receivers to go make plays. I’m just putting the ball where it needs to be so they can make plays after.”

Blank looks to make bigger step as senior

Parker Blank was a starting safety for the Golden Beavers’ defense last season, finishing with 67 total tackles and two interceptions.

He still plans to be a big defensive contributor, but he’s also planning to take over for Josiah Barnes as the starting running back.

Date Game

aug. 22 at Fort atkinson

aug. 29 at Menomonee Falls

sept. 5 MOUNT HOREB/BARNEVELD

sept. 12 at sauk prairie

sept. 19 at Kettle Moraine lutheran

sept. 26 WATERTOWN

oct. 3 at Kewaskum

oct. 10 PORT WASHINGTON

oct. 17 PLYMOUTH

home games in BOLD CAPS games are at 7 p.m. and are subject to change

“I’m just trying to have fun. It’s my last year,” Blank said. “I’m going to help the young guys.”

Linde said Blank is a versatile player who can catch the ball out the backfield or flex out as a receiver. He’s also “tough as nails” between the tackles and has good vision and lateral mobility.

please see BEAVER DAM, page 11

KICKOFF 2025 | PORTAGE

Experienced seniors to lead way for Portage

SEAN DAVIS sdavis@wiscnews.com

The Portage football team continued to show its growth last fall in coach Chris Rice’s second season in charge.

The Warriors improved to four wins behind their burgeoning Wing-T o ense as they found a groove late in the season, and they were agonizingly close to putting themselves in contention for a playo spot.

Rice said this season’s group, which is anchored by an experienced senior class, is ahead of schedule when it comes to installing the o ense and defense.

“A lot of it’s just focusing on our steps and the way we need to get to people,” he said. “We haven’t been too crisp on that, so it’s just cleaning up a lot of those mistakes. At least now we have the o ense down, so we’re able to know where we’re going, but now it’s just how we get there.”

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Warriors.

Quarterback competition ahead of running back stable

Rice’s decision to move to the Wing-T delivered another strong o ensive campaign in 2024. The Warriors rushed for 2,340

yards and 26 touchdowns to go with 504 yards and five more scores through the air, according to WisSports.net.

Rice has no intentions of changing that this season, but the question entering the season is who will lead the run-heavy attack. Brody

Kayartz and Oskar Johnson return after each started games last season.

Kayartz, a senior, threw for 247 yards and a pair of scores with six interceptions, while Johnson tallied 245 yards and three scores.

“I think it’s great to have

that competition, especially at a position that’s as important as the quarterback position, for both of them to just keep working to get better,” Rice said.

Whoever wins the job will have plenty of weapons at his disposal. Tristan

Brunt was the team’s thirdleading rusher last season with 338 yards, while Ryker Rockhill and Austin Fries both rushed for more than 200 yards.

Rice also expects Alex Hartwig to play a big role in the ground game.

“It comes down to our o ensive line, more so than our running backs,” Rice said. “If we can block it right, then it should be making big enough holes for anybody to get through.”

Continuity key on line

The good news for the Warriors up front is that they don’t have a ton of retooling to do.

Portage only lost two starters from last season’s o ensive line — Kane Chappell and Colin Thompson — to graduation. Helping anchor the returners are Jaxson Maass and Matthew Simonson at the guard positions.

Rice said Maass is moving back inside after he played tackle last season, while Brycen Quinn returns at tackle.

“We’ve got a lot of experience coming back on our o ensive line,” Rice said.

As much experience as the Warriors boast, Quinn, listed at 6-foot-3, 250 pounds, is the only one

KICKOFF 2025 | PORTAGE

among the trio who is at least 6-foot. While that may look like a concern on the surface given the size fellow Badger Small Conference foes like Mount Horeb/ Barneveld and Stoughton have, Rice isn’t worried.

Date Game

Aug. 21 WISCONSIN DELLS

Aug. 28 at Baraboo

Sept. 5 at Plymouth

Sept 12 PORT WASHINGTON

Sept. 19, 3p.m.at Madison Edgewood

Sept. 26 STOUGHTON

Oct. 3 at Sauk Prairie

Oct. 10 LAKESIDE LUTHERAN

Oct. 17 MOUNT HOREB/BARNEVELD

Home games in BOLD CAPS

Games are at 7p.m. unless noted and are subject to change

with those. But at the same time, if we use our technique, we should be able to have some positive gains this year.”

Linebacking duo at heart of defense

Portage has a deep pool of experience to pull from defensively, too. It will be key as Rice looks for a new leader to replace graduated second-team All-Badger Small pick Max Kreuziger. The duo of Hartwig and Brunt is positioned to fill those shoes.

“They have to be the heart of our defense,” Rice said.

season as a defensive back before moving to inside linebacker.

“He’s got a motor on him and he just never stops,” Rice said about Hartwig. “He’s been a leader for us all o season in the weight room, and hopefully he’ll transition to the field.”

Rice also plans to rely on

The skinny

Coach: Chris Rice, third season (8th overall), 19-34

Last season: 4-5, 2-5 Badger Small Conference

Key returnees: Michael Nachreiner, sr., TE/DB; Donovan Navone, sr., TE/LB; Brody Kayartz, sr., QB/DB; Oskar Johnson, jr., QB/DB; Alex Hartwig, sr., RB/LB; Wesley Krueger, sr., TE/DE; Ryker Rockhill, sr., RB/ DB; Tristan Brunt, sr., LB/RB; Austin Fries, jr., RB/DB; Matthew Simonson, sr., OL/DL; Jaxson Maass, jr., OL/DL; Brycen Quinn, sr., OL/DL

Simonson, wherever the team chooses to play him, and is eager to see Wesley Krueger’s play on the line.

“We’ve always had to go against the bigger bodies,” Rice said. “We angle block things and we don’t ever try to take them head on, so it’s always a concern dealing

Hartwig led Portage with 77 tackles last season, including 46 solo and three tackles for loss, while Brunt chipped in 43, including 26 solo. Rice compared Hartwig’s “knack for the football,” to that of Kreuziger, who started last

KICKOFF 2025 | LODI

Defensive depth a significant plus

Blue Devils hope chances last season equal big plays this season

SEAN DAVIS

sdavis@wiscnews.com

It was business as usual for the Lodi football team last season under coach Kyle Mack.

The Blue Devils delivered another playoff appearance and reached the second round before falling to La Crosse Aquinas, which had entered the season as winners of three consecutive WIAA Division 5 state championships.

It was a strong debut season under Mack given Lodi had to replace all 22 starters from its 2023 Division 4 state championship team. Mack is confident that the group’s trial by fire can fuel another big campaign this fall.

“I definitely think that experience was very valuable for us last year, especially those kids,” Mack said. “You’re hoping that experience is going to show and be helpful, especially in meaningful games against some very tough opponents.

“Then you just have a better sense of what it takes week in and week out to be competitive, and hopefully come out on the right side.”

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Blue Devils.

Offense eyes sustainability

Lodi underwent a complete overhaul last season but still packed plenty of punch offensively, averaging 20.8 points per game.

The Blue Devils rode a balanced attack to gain nearly

2,600 yards of total offense. Mack wants to inflate Lodi’s numbers this season.

“We need to do better in both,” he said. “We need to be able to sustain drives, keep the ball in our hands, keep the defense off the field and be able to move the chains.”

Mack has plenty of returning weapons to expand last season’s production, led by top returning rusher Brody Ripp and receiver Kyle Kurt. Ripp tallied 722 yards and three touchdowns while Kurt hauled in 22 passes for 378 yards and four scores.

Both Kale Schneider and Alex Breunig took snaps at quarterback last season and both will see action under center.

Karrell Branch in the passing game and Sawyer Baron in the rushing attack provide more options and other skill sets for Mack to deploy.

“You’re not always going to have the big plays,” Mack

playoff game against Wisconsin dells last season.

said. “Some people might say it’s like dunking your way down, but at the end of the day, it’s keeping the ball in our hands and keeping our guys fresh.”

Depth a strong point of athletic defense

Lodi should be able to keep plenty of fresh bodies on the defensive side of the ball.

Needing to replace all 11

starters last season gave Mack and the rest of his coaching staff the chance to give plenty of players reps during key games last season.

“We played some younger guys, and they got some valuable experience,” he said.

“I’m hoping it’s at a point where, if somebody needs a breather, we can insert those guys and there’s not going to be a drop-off, so to speak.”

Date Game

aug. 22 at Monroe

aug. 29

EDGERTON

sept. 5 at columbus

sept. 12 WALWORTH BIG FOOT

sept. 19 at clinton

sept. 26 LAKE MILLS

oct. 3 at darlington

oct. 10 at Beloit Turner

oct. 17

HORICON/HUSTISFORD

home games in BOLD CAPS games are at 7 p.m. and are subject to change

The skinny

Coach: Kyle Mack, second season, 7-4

Last season: 7-4, 4-2 capitol conference; lost 29-0 to la crosse aquinas in second round of division 4 playoffs

Key returnees: Karrell Branch, sr., Wr/dB; Kyle Kurt, sr., Te/lB; alex Breunig, sr., QB/lB; Jack Bozacki, sr., rB/dB; Bryson Koeppen, sr., FB/ lB; Bennett nyquist, jr., Wr/dB; Brody ripp, sr., rB/dB; sawyer Baron, sr., dB/rB; nate lichucki, sr., ol/dl; Beau ripp, sr., ol/dl; Kale schneider, jr., QB/dB

Mack’s hopeful that can help a unit that held six opponents to two scores or fewer last season produce even better numbers.

Spearheading that group is the linebacking trio of Grayson Koeppen, Kurt and Breunig. Koeppen racked up 82 tackles, including 58 solo and five tackles for loss, as well as four fumble recoveries, while Kurt (76 tackles,

nine TFLs, three sacks) and Breunig (47 tackles) also played key roles last season. Branch and Bennett Nyquist will help anchor the defensive backfield, while Mack said the heart of the defense comes from the defensive linemen eating up blocks.

Rugged early slate could set tone

The Blue Devils won’t get to settle in during a difficult opening three games. Lodi again will open the season against Monroe before taking on Edgerton in its nonconference games. The Cheesemakers and Crimson Tide finished first and second in the Rock Valley Conference last season and are among the league contenders again.

Meanwhile, a trip to rival Columbus kicks off the Capitol Conference portion of the schedule. The reigning league champion Cardinals cruised to a 42-14 win at Lodi last season.

Mack knows there will be plenty of interest in the clash between two of the last three WIAA Division 4 state champions.

Backfield switch powers Rockets offense

Kok, Paul return to keep Randolph moving in right direction

MARK MCMULLEN

mmcmullen@wiscnews.com

The Randolph football team has some work to do heading into the 2025 season.

The Rockets finished last season with a 5-5 record and bowed out of the WIAA Division 7 postseason with a 7-0 loss to Ithaca in the first round.

“It’s always exciting — you get to build relationships with kids, try to strive to win and do all those types of things,” Randolph coach Tom Chase said. “It’s always a good thing. We have really good energy. We have really good chemistry so far. I’m excited about what this group has. We have great senior leadership.”

Randolph has eight seniors returning this season, including Ben Paul, with six returning offensive starters and seven defensive starters back.

Chase said the coaching staff is excited to have them all coming back, especially the ones who play on both sides of the ball like Paul, Jared Buwalda, Levi Kok and Tyler Bahr.

“We have several we want to take the next step,” Chase said.

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Rockets.

Beaver

Dam

Randolph’s backfield returns experience

Kok headed into last season as the starting quarterback and Paul was behind him as a bowling-ball type running back.

The offense didn’t see much production, so the two switched and Randolph found success. Paul ran for 908 yards and 16 touchdowns while completing 65.8% of his passes for 336 yards and two touchdowns.

It’s not broken, so Chase and the coaching staff have decided to keep Paul at QB.

“Ben is a special player,” Chase said. “He’s a strong kid, he’s a very good athlete, he does a great vertical jump and the kid is

an athlete. We’re going to revolve our offense around him, whether he’s running the ball or he’s throwing the ball or being a decoy.”

Paul said last season’s experience helped build chemistry with Kok in the backfield.

“Having one year under the belt definitely helps learning the steps I need to take in the backfield for the options, and overall reading was a big learning experience,” Paul said.

Kok ran for 231 yards and four TDs last season. He knows he’ll be the front man for Paul this season.

“It just prepared me for what it’s going to be and what I’m going to have to do to help the team,” Kok said.

“It’s a lot more blocking than it was at quarterback. I’ve just got to make sure I don’t miss my blocks.”

Excitement builds around rookie Alvin

It’s not often that a senior acknowledges a freshman, but Paul is excited about the potential defensive impact of incoming freshman Lukas Alvin.

“I’m excited to see what he can do,” Paul said. “He’s definitely put work in the offseason.”

Paul envisions Alvin suiting up alongside him as a starting linebacker because of his knowledge of the game, 6-foot, 200-pound frame and potential.

Date Game

aug. 22 CAMBRIDGE

aug. 29 at hilbert

Sept. 5 at oshkosh lourdes

Sept. 12 at cambria-Friesland

Sept. 19 WESTFIELD

Sept. 26 PALMYRA-EAGLE

oct. 3 at parkview/albany

oct. 10 at dodgeland

oct. 17

JOHNSON CREEK home games in BOLD CAPS games are at 7 p.m. and are subject to change

The skinny

Coach: tom chase, sixth season, 43-20

Last season: 5-5, 2nd in the trailways conference; lost 7-0 to ithaca in first round of division 7 playoffs

Returning players:

Ben paul, sr., QB/ lB; levi Kok, sr., rB/dB; tyler Bahr, sr., dl/ol; Jared Buwalda, sr., dB/ rB; griffin hemling, jr., Wr/dB

“Lukas is an extremely dedicated athlete,” Chase said. “He played in the eighth grade Rising Star All-Star game this summer. He’s instinctive, strong and pretty fast. … If he can play fast enough, he will likely start on defense and see some time on offense.”

Entire starting secondary returns

Kok is excited for another season on defense to work with Buwalda, Caden Momanyi and Griffin Hemling. Those four players make up the Rockets’ defensive secondary.

“We all play good together,” Kok said. “We’re all different and we can move around if we need.”

Hemling is a 6-foot, 150pound junior who had eight tackles and a team-high five interceptions last season. Buwalda and Momanyi have increased their strength after combining for 56 tackles and two picks last year. Kok is the speedster among the four and had four interceptions and 40 total tackles last season.

“I’m excited for that because the guys who were here last year are putting in the effort right now,” Chase said.

From 6

“He’s an all-around back who’s going to give us a lot of opportunities to create some fits for defenses,” Linde said.

Holes to fill in trenches

Beaver Dam will have to fill holes left by Blake Hartman, AJ Litzer and Ben Brown on the offensive line. Hartman was the offensive lineman of the year in the East Central Conference.

Senior Charley Kircher and junior Caleb DeZarn are the only returners. Kircher said seniors Caden Lepple and Michael Keberlein are the likeliest to step into starting roles with him on the offensive line.

“I think Caden Lepple is really going to help out the offensive line,” Kircher said. “We lost a lot of linemen last year, and he’s really stepped up. There was one game he stepped in for Blake and he really did a good job there.”

KICKOFF 2025 | COLUMBUS

Next in line ready to shine in backfield

Cowell ready to build on legacies of post Columbus star backs

MARK MCMULLEN mmcmullen@wiscnews.com

Andy Ryan learned on the job from week to week last season, his first as Columbus football coach.

He found success early and often with the Cardinals, finishing the season with an 11-1 record, won the Capitol Conference championship with an undefeated record and bowed out of the WIAA postseason in the third round with a 29-28 loss to La Crosse Aquinas.

Ryan is excited for his second season in charge to get started.

“I’m a lot more confident in knowing what to expect,” Ryan said. “I’m looking forward to it.”

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Cardinals.

Columbus backfield includes speedster

Senior Peyton Powers is entering his third season as Columbus’ starting quarterback and each season will have had a different running back. His first two were remarkable — Colton Brunell and Conner Roche. Both were tough ball carriers who led the Cardinals to conference championships and a state championship in Brunell’s case. Sitting behind both, waiting for an opportunity, was senior

Owen Cowell.

“I’m excited to have a new fresh start,” Cowell said. “I’ve had two big

names in front of me, and I’m glad to be starting now. I just want to be as good or even better than them. I’m excited.”

Cowell knows Brunell and Roche were downhill running backs who weren’t afraid to run over people.

Date Game

aug. 22 GREENFIELD

aug. 29 vs. la crosse aquinas at uW-la crosse

sept. 5 LODI

sept. 12 at horicon/hustisford

sept. 19 at Walworth Big Foot

sept. 26 CLINTON

oct. 3 at lake Mills

oct. 10 at cedar grove-Belgium

oct. 17 BELOIT TURNER

home games in BOLD CAPS

games are at 7 p.m. and are subject to change

Cowell is a little smaller at 5-foot-9 and 160 pounds, but what stands out is his blazing speed. The defense also could have trouble seeing him through a big offensive line.

“I’m excited with run plays and how small he

is and how big our offensive line is,” senior lineman Wyatt Graffin said. “You see him in the backfield and the next second he’s downfield.”

At a camp in early July, Cowell ran a 40-yard dash in 4.47 seconds, which broke a program record.

The skinny

Coach: andy ryan, second season, 11-1

Last season: 11-1, first in the capitol conference; lost 29-28 to la crosse aquinas in third round of division 4 playoffs

players:

“You’ve got to catch him, and that’s tough to do,” Powers said.

Powers’ confidence at all-time high

Senior receiver Jordan Mobry thought his starting quarterback was a little timid as a sophomore. Powers started gaining traction with increased experience. Powers enters his senior season with plenty of confidence.

“I’m playing as myself,” he said. “I’m able to step up and make plays. I put trust in other guys.”

Mobry is expecting another “huge year” from Powers.

“We’re putting a little bit more (running) on his plate, which he’s excited for,” Ryan said about Powers. “I think he’s ready for it.”

Mobry was the team’s leading receiver last season, and senior Owen Hacht is a threat at tight end.

“They’re all really big, physical frames,” Powers said. “They’re very easy to throw to when they get open.

2025Schedule

8/22vs.Green eld 8/29@Aquinas 9/5vs.Lodi 9/12@Horicon/Hustisford 9/19@BigFoot 9/26vs.Clinton(Homecoming) 10/3@LakeMills 10/10@CedarGrove-Belgium 10/17vs.Turner

Taste of playo s leaves Waupun wanting more

Warriors return starting QB, top receiver in quest to make run

MARK MCMULLEN

mmcmullen@wiscnews.com

The Waupun football team found more success last season than it had in quite some time.

The Warriors switched to the South Central Conference, going 6-3 overall and 4-3 in league play. The winning conference record meant they qualified for the postseason for the first time since 2007.

“For our program, that was a huge stepping stone,” coach Adrian Harmsen said. “It was huge for us. We just want to build on top of that and focus on the details, making sure that everyone is doing everything possible to get the results we want to see.”

Harmsen said the senior class has “set the tone” for the upcoming season.

“We got a lot of great kids who are willing to put in the work this year,” he said.

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Warriors.

New faces in Waupun backfield

Waupun used a platoon attack at running back last season with seniors Haiden Rieder and Kyler Sanders. They combined for 752 yards and seven touchdowns.

“That was a great combo that we had last year,” Harmsen said. “This year, it’s really up for the taking.”

Harmsen said Waupun has depth at running back to create competition.

Waupun’s Chase Beahm attempt a pass during a South Central Conference game against Wautoma last season. Beahm is heading into his third season as the starting quarterback.

Date

The skinny

Coach: Adrian Harmsen, foutth season, 9-19

Last season: 6-4, 4th in the South Central Conference; lost 42-6 to Mayville in first round of Division 4 playo s

Returning players: Isaiah Thurk, sr., TE/ LB; Grahm Gopalan, sr., RB/DB; Chase Beahm, sr., QB; Logan Prall, sr., WR/DB

Game

Aug. 22 at Pardeeville

Aug. 29

Sept. 5

NEW HOLSTEIN

RIPON

Sept. 12 at Adams-Friendship

Sept. 19

NEKOOSA

Sept. 26 at Wautoma

Oct. 3

BERLIN

Oct. 10 at Mauston

Oct. 17 at Wisconsin Dells

Home games in BOLD CAPS

Games are at 7p.m. and are subject to change

field.”

He’s shifty, making tacklers miss in the open field.

“I’m going to be wherever the coaches tell me to be,”

Gopalan said. “I’m going to do my job at the end of the day. Nothing is changing. I’m going to be all over the

Senior Grahm Gopalan was a Swiss Army knife for the Warriors, lining up in the backfield, the slot as a receiver, at cornerback and served as a kick returner.

Harmsen said some upperclassmen (Patrick Reilley, Kody Kallerud and Wesley Kunz) could step into the running back rotation. They are downhill runners like Rieder.

Senior Chase Beahm said senior Isaiah Thurk could come in as a

Beahm

power back in short-yardage situations.

Torres left big shoes to fill on both sides

Brayden Torres was more than a defensive back and receiver for the Warriors last season as a senior. He also served as a leader, directing the Warriors for success and earning all-conference honors in the South Central.

Trojans banking on backfield conversions

Dodgeland hopes former QB, tight end will propel rushing attack

NILE MCNAIR

nmcnair@madison.com

The Dodgeland football program wants to lay a foundation of success this season under second-year coach Steve Good.

The Trojans will focus on player development in an e ort to elevate the numerous starters returning on o ense and defense.

Dodgeland hopes individual growth will guide the team to its first multiplewin season since 2019.

“I think I got a true buyin with the seniors this year of wanting to do very well for us and providing our younger players with the ability to know what we’re doing and how we’re doing it,” Good said.

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Trojans.

Arsenal of weapons

Dodgeland’s o ense revolves around two converted running backs, sophomore Noah Kohn and senior Wade Winter.

Kohn was the Trojans’ starting quarterback last season, while Winter played tight end. Both will see a handful of carries out of Dodgeland’s Pro-I formation.

“We started seeing him do some running back for us toward the end of the season last year,”

Good said about Winter.

Seniors Owen Becker and John Zenk both are back on the o ensive line to help lead Dodgeland’s rushing attack.

“Both have been integral parts of our o ense and helped our o ense grow and move,” Good said.

Colton Marquardt is the Trojans’ new big-play threat, taking over the role from Zander DeZarn.

“Xander battled through injuries last year, but he was our home-run hitter,” Good said. “If he got the ball, he could take it 80 yards and score a touchdown.”

Marquardt is Dodgeland’s No. 1 wide receiver this season and could benefit from teams loading up to stop the run.

“He started catching on toward the end of the season last year and making a good connection with Noah,” Good said. “So that’s something that’s going to be great to look at, to see where he develops this season.”

First-year standouts

Several underclassmen have an opportunity to leave their imprint this season.

Headlining that group is Kameron Birrenkott, who’ll start at quarterback. While the 6-foot-2 sophomore didn’t play last season, Good said he sees the field well and throws a good ball downfield.

“I think the dynamic

is di erent than Noah in the sense that Kameron is more of a pocket passer,” Good said. “Whereas Noah would be a guy who had to get outside the tackles and he would hurt you with his feet and his arm, so just a little bit di erent than what we’ve had before.”

Meanwhile, freshmen Chaz Arriens, Wesley Vela and Jackson Janzer have emerged in practice.

The trio will battle for a starting safety position, while Arriens also earned a role in the Trojans’ o ensive backfield.

“What we noticed last year toward the end of the season is that when we have some dynamic runners and we can use a couple of them, it works really well for us,” Good said.

Keeping a competitive edge

Most of Dodgeland’s games during its winless season last year followed the same script.

The Trojans kept the game relatively close in the first half before their opponents pulled away in the second half.

“Due to numbers being down, we kind of wear down in games, and then we lose our competitiveness,” Good said. “Then you see the scores not looking like what we think they should be.”

That’s a script the Trojans are hoping to rewrite as they try to compete with the upper-echelon teams in Trailways Conference.

Johnson Creek, which Dodgeland plays in Week 6, has won the conference title

The skinny

Coach: Steve Good, second season, 0-9

Last season: 0-9, 0-7 Trailways Conference

Returning: Wade Winter, sr., RB/OLB; Noah Kohn, so., RB/MLB; Owen Becker, sr., OL/DL; John Zenk, sr., OL/DL; Colten Marquardt, sr., OL/DL

Date Game

Aug. 22 at Deerfield

Aug. 29 FALL RIVER/RIO

Sept. 5 CAMBRIA-FRIESLAND

Sept. 12 PALMYRA-EAGLE

Sept. 19at Parkview/Albany

Sept. 26 JOHNSON CREEK

Oct. 3 vs. Oshkosh Lourdes at UW-Oshkosh

Oct. 10; RANDOLPH

Oct. 17; at Westfield

Home games in BOLD CAPS

Games are at 7p.m. and are subject to change

the past two seasons.

“Being in every game and having a way to compete with all the teams in our league is what we’re looking for this season,” Good said.

Remaining competitive or securing upset victories could help add depth to the Trojans’ future rosters.

“If we’re more competitive and show a more competitive side this year, we might still capture maybe a couple more players that are on the fence,” Good said.

Proving that the program is progressing also will make opponents secondguess scheduling their Homecomings during the week of the Dodgeland

game for an “easy win.”

“We want to send a message this year that we’re not an easy win,” Good said.

“We’re going to scrap, we’re going to fight and try to do our best to give ourselves an opportunity to compete on the highest level every day of the week.”

The Classifieds bring together homeowners and house hunters every day.

KICKOFF 2025 | HORICON/HUSTISFORD

Defense benefits from increased depth

MarshFalcons hope fresher players lead to more success on defense

NILE MCNAIR nmcnair@madison.com

Horicon/Hustisford football’s rebuild continues this season under secondyear coach Tim Meyer.

The MarshFalcons won four of five games to close the regular season and reach the playo s in their inaugural year in the Capitol Conference.

Now with an influx of upperclassmen who haven’t played football since middle school joining the roster, Horicon/Hustisford has more depth to compete with conference powers like Columbus, Lake Mills and Lodi.

“In my mind, that’s a

really good thing for the health of the program to get people back interested,”

Meyer said. “But on the other hand, we’ve got really great athletes with not a lot of reps, so we’re battling through that.”

Here are three things to know about the 2025 MarshFalcons.

Bringing heat on D

The additional personnel will allow Horicon/Hustisford to implement a platoon system, letting players dedicate their time to one position and not have to play on both sides of the ball.

That hopefully will prevent fatigue during games, especially at the MarshFalcons’ strongest position group of linebacker.

Kaleb Hodgson, who ranked second on the team

this year.”

Sophomore Elijah Williams and senior Ethan Strie are amongst the defensive linemen who will fortify Horicon/Hustisford’s run defense and generate its pass rush.

“Defensively I would definitely like to see us be more aggressive and bring the heat,” Meyer said. Strie had 31 total tackles and 1½ sacks last season, per WisSports.net, while Williams is a new starter. Strie “showed some flashes at defensive end and we’re really going to try to cut him loose,” Meyer said. “Let him do what he does best be big, long and athletic.”

New-look o ense

last season with 61 total tackles, anchors the linebacking corps.

“We’re going to probably

platoon those guys too, so they can be terrors on defense and then not be counted on (on) another

side of the ball,” Meyer said.

“We got some big, strong linebackers, and hopefully they can show themselves

Quarterback Barrett Meyer is the lone returning starter for the Horicon/ Hustisford o ense this

KICKOFF 2025 | POYNETTE

Pumas’ puzzle pieces fit into place

Taste of postseason last season adds to Poynette’s hunger

NILE MCNAIR

nmcnair@madison.com

Poynette’s football rebuilding process ended last year as the program recorded its first winning season and postseason appearance since 2021.

Coach Greg Kallungi credited the Pumas’ senior class for the turnaround and said that leadership was passed down to this season’s upperclassmen.

“I think we’ve seen a continuation of that all summer and all o season long,” Kallungi said. “Guys are pushing each other to get in the weight room and take advantage of the opportunities we have available, whether it’s passing leagues or contact nights.”

With the foundation of success being laid, Poynette hopes to capture a conference title during its second year in the Eastern Suburban Conference.

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Pumas.

All-conference core

Poynette returns a host of players who received All-Eastern Suburban Conference honors last season. The group is headlined by Jack Nehls, who should be a stalwart on the Pumas’ o ensive and defensive

lines.

Poynette has four returning starters along the o ensive line this season after having new faces across the board last season.

“I think it took us a couple of games to get rolling with those guys,” Kallungi said. “This year, I think we feel good about being able to kind of hit the ground running a little bit better than we were able to at the beginning of last year.”

The Pumas have standout performers at all three levels on defense.

Adam Busch joins Nehls at defensive tackle, while Julian Wells remains Poynette’s premier pass rusher o the edge. The senior had a team-high 4½ sacks last season, per WisSports.net.

Senior Will Frieden and junior Johnny Berg lead the linebacking corps, with Mason Freimuth emerging as the Pumas’ top defensive back.

“We lost some key members of our secondary (Chayse LaSarge and Julian Sanger), but having Mason

Freimuth at corner, kind of anchoring that bunch, is going to help us a lot, too,” Kallungi said.

Balanced o ense

Poynette’s o ense once again will revolve around all-conference running back Vance Hathaway. The senior hopes to eclipse 1,000 yards rushing after falling 14 yards shy last season.

Sophomores Connor Raymond and Chris Odoi, a sprinter in track, will spell Hathaway at times and add another dynamic to the backfield.

“We think it’s important to be able to run the ball and wear teams down,” Kallungi said.

Freimuth takes over as the Pumas’ quarterback after sitting behind Ashton Meister last season. Kallungi believes the senior gives Poynette an added dimension

Date

Game

Aug. 22 at Nekoosa

Aug. 29 WAUTOMA

Sept. 5 CAMBRIDGE

Sept. 12 WATERLOO

Sept. 19 at Pardeeville

Sept. 26 at Markesan

Oct. 3 DEERFIELD

Oct. 10 at Marshall

Oct. 17 FALL RIVER/RIO

Home games in BOLD CAPS Games are at 7 p.m. and are subject to change

at the position.

“He’s very athletic, and not that our quarterback last year wasn’t, but I think Mason even has a step on him in terms of speed and quickness,” Kallungi said.

Freimuth also wants to build chemistry with the Pumas’ top targets in Wells and senior wide receiver Zane Johnson.

going to have success running the ball, but we think we can throw it around a little bit too,” Kallungi said.

Taking the next step

Poynette’s expectations have risen this fall after hosting its first playo game in a decade last season.

The skinny

Coach: Greg Kallungi, 11th season, 34-53

Last season: 6-4, 5-2 Eastern Suburban Conference; lost 31-7 to Marshall in first round of Division 6 playo s

Returning: Vance Hathaway, sr., RB/LB; Mason Freimuth, sr., QB/DB; Jack Nehls, sr., OL/DL; Will Frieden, sr., LB; Justin Wells, sr., DE; Adam Busch, sr., OL/DL; Johnny Berg, jr., LB

They’re quick.”

Gra n, Mobry enhance defense

Both Roche and Riley Kaminski, two of the top

tacklers for Columbus, were lost to graduation.. The Cardinals need to find replacements.

Kaminski led the Cardinals with 78 total tackles, while Roche grabbed attention with spectacular plays. Roche was fourth on the team with 54 total tackles. Two returning playmak-

ers ready to become leaders are Gra n and Mobry.

“It’s the next man up,” Ryan said. “We had some talented kids graduate. That’s the whole point of the o season. We’re getting bigger, faster and stronger.”

Gra n led the team with 27 tackles for loss and 14 sacks, while Mobry was

Wells had 265 yards receiving from his tight end position, while Johnson “caught some big touchdown passes for us last year,” Kallungi said.

“We’re

The Pumas’ sights are set on winning a playo game and having a memorable postseason run. However, Kallungi wants his team to prioritize remaining competitive in conference play.

“I think we can be a thorn in some people’s sides on Friday nights and in our conference,” he said.

“That’s what we’re looking forward to at first and we’ll let everything else fall into place.”

Three of Poynette’s four losses last season came against conference opponents. Cambridge and Pardeeville defeated the Pumas in the regular season before Marshall ended their season in the first round of the playo s.

Poynette has an opportunity to avenge those losses this season. Kallungi said the Pumas must play a physical and tough brand of football to supplant their conference foes.

“Football in Wisconsin, it’s all about controlling the line of scrimmage first and foremost, so we want to be able to run the ball and we want to be able to stop the run,” Kallungi said.

an emotional leader in the secondary with 41 tackles, two pass deflections and an interception.

“He’s unbelievable both ways,” Mobry said about Gra n. “I don’t think there’s anybody better. He just works his butt o . Every play, he gives 100%. He’s physical, fast and can

do it all.”

Mobry said he’s worked on his footwork as well as an understanding of coverages, including zone and pressing.

“It was anything to make me better,” Mobry said.

Meanwhile, Gra n will be a leader on the line again after being named the Capitol Conference’s Defensive

Player and Lineman of the Year. He caused havoc and will lead a defensive line that is looking for a starter.

“I just went in there and worked my butt o ,” Gra n said. “During the summer, in morning lifts and then doing the speed work with my track coach. That’s what I’ve been doing.”

Waupun

Torres was second on the team with 31 catches for 392 yards and five touchdowns. He was a ballhawk with seven interceptions and had 28 total tackles and two tackles for loss.

“That’s definitely some adversity we’re going to overcome this season,” Harmsen said. “(Torres) was a great player for us last year. This year, we’re going to have to find someone ... who’s willing to step up to the plate and perform as best they can.”

Senior Logan Prall said Brennan Redeker could step in “and do just fine” if he quickly learns route concepts.

Kaden Del Ponte, Miles

14 season.

The standout signalcaller returns for his senior campaign after posting 1,461 yards passing, 446 yards rushing and 18 total touchdowns a season ago, per WisSports.net

Meyer earned AllCapitol Conference second-team honors for his performance and is poised for another stellar season.

“The more I dove into the offense, I made it more complicated for him and I took away some of his authority that he had on the field,” Tim Meyer said.

Sherden and Jacob Herringa all could make a case to earn more playing time.

“There are a lot of great receivers that we’re definitely planning on using — all of them and as many of them as possible,” Harmsen said. “There’s only one football.”

Harmsen said the defense as a whole will have to step up to replace the loss of Torres.

“I feel like we have a lot of younger guys stepping up,” Thurk said. “I feel like our defense is going to play more as a unit. Not one guy is going to pick up his spot, but more as a defense as a whole will replace him by working hard.”

Expectations rise for quarterback

Beahm returns at quarterback after completing 58.5% of his passes last season. He finished with 1,756 yards passing,

20 touchdowns and nine interceptions.

“Like every year, the expectations are always just a little bit more,” Harmsen said. “He is someone who is

definitely willing to step up to the plate.”

Prall is back after being named the conference receiver of the year. He caught 35 passes for 717

yards and nine touchdowns. Thurk is a big target for Beahm.

“Offensively, we’re going to keep working as hard as we can to keep things new and make teams have to think about what they’re going to do against us every week,” Prall said. “I think we’ve got a lot of guys that want to win.”

“We’ve stripped a lot down and we’re making it simple for him and we’re going to go back to free and easy.”

Surrounding Barrett Meyer is a new cast of running backs and receivers.

1 target in the passing game.

The senior wide receiver will guide a relatively young receiving corps that showed promise during contact days.

Date

Game

aug. 22 LOMIRA

aug. 29 at Mayville

The skinny

Coach: Tim Meyer, second year, 4-6

Christian Schwartz, who had 200 yards rushing and three touchdowns as a backup last season, is the focal point of the MarshFalcons’ rushing attack this season.

Hodgson also will see carries out the backfield after being converted from his offensive lineman position.

“That’s where he should’ve been all along,” Tim Meyer said.

Quin Jackl is poised to become Barrett Meyer’s No.

“We’re going to throw the ball more, play to the strengths of the kids that we have,” Tim Meyer said.

Upset-minded group

Horicon/Hustisford faced some of the state’s best teams last season.

The MarshFalcons lost to state champions Stratford (Division 5) and Lomira (Division 6), while also falling to conference powers Columbus, Lodi and Lake Mills.

The tough schedule led to an 0-4 start, something Tim Meyer hopes to avoid this season.

“I don’t want to have to wait for game five. I want to hit the ground running and

sept. 5 at lake Mills

sept. 12 COLUMBUS

sept. 19

sept. 26

MANITOWOC LUTHERAN

WALWORTH BIG FOOT

oct. 3 at Beloit Turner

oct. 10 CLINTON

oct. 17 at lodi

home games in BOLD CAPS Games are at 7 p.m. and are subject to change

turn some heads in the first four games,” he said.

Horicon/Hustisford has an opportunity to pull off upsets right away, as it faces Lomira, Lake Mills and Columbus in the first four games.

The MarshFalcons also hope to knock off Lodi to conclude the regular season after rushing for 220 yards in last year’s game, per WisSports.net.

Last season: 4-6, 3-3 capitol conference; lost to eventual state champion stratford 48-14 in first round of division 5 playoffs

Returning: Barrett Meyer, sr., QB/Fs; christian schwartz, sr., rB/Fs; Kaleb hodgson, jr., FB/lB/ol; Quin Jackl, sr., Wr/dB; elijah Williams, so., ol/dl; Joe Johnson, jr., ol/dl; ethan strieff, sr., Wr/de

“Hopefully that helped us grow, and I would like to see that growth and that maturity that hopefully we developed carry us into climbing up toward the top of the standings,” Tim Meyer said.

KICKOFF 2025 | CAMBRIA-FRIESLAND

Smaller numbers no worry for Hilltoppers

Making most of limited roster not new for coaches

MARK MCMULLEN

mmcmullen@wiscnews.com

Dwindling numbers is nothing new for the Cambria-Friesland football program.

The Hilltoppers consistently have had less than 30 athletes but still found success. They had 22 players listed on their roster on WisSport.net last season and finished 7-4 overall, including 5-2 in the Trailways Conference, and qualified for the postseason. They bowed out to Kenosha St. Joseph in the second round.

“In the last five years, I think the most players we had in our program is 25,” coach Jamie Link said. “Ideally a small Division 7 school, you’d like to sit between 30 and 40 kids. The reality is we just don’t. We just don’t have that.”

Cambria-Friesland is heading into this season with 21 players, including 18 who are either a junior or senior. But many of those players haven’t been starters or are new to the sport.

Link said it’s impossible to get quality scout reps without 11-on-11 practices.

“A lot of it is coaching kids up, especially since we have more than a few who have never played football before,” he said. “Being able to teach them the rules of the game and the expectations of the norm in a lot of ways makes me feel like a middle school coach all over again. You really have to boil down and teach.

“I’m excited about the challenge of that this year.”

Date Game

Aug. 22 at Fall River/Rio

Aug. 29 at Cambridge

Sept. 5 at Dodgeland

Sept. 12 RANDOLPH

Sept. 19 vs. Oshkosh Lourdes at UW-Oshkosh

Sept. 26 at Parkview/Albany

Oct. 3 JOHNSON CREEK

Oct. 10 at Westfield

Oct. 17 PALMYRA-EAGLE

Home games in BOLD CAPS

Games are at 7 p.m. and are subject to change

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Hilltoppers.

Life without strong side of o ensive line

The Hilltoppers lost to graduation a pair of All-Trailways Conference first-teamers in strong-side guard Brayden Busse and tackle Evan Cappetta. Ivan Leija returns to play

center after a broken tibia and fibula last year, which means Jackson Drews will move from center to strongside guard.

“It’s definitely di erent because when I was center, you don’t have to remember much,” Drews said. “At strong guard, you have to remember the play and what to do.”

Link said he likes what Brock Dykstra, who is listed at 5-foot-10 and 190 pounds, brings and is excited to give him an opportunity at the other guard position.

Bryce Retzla , a returning starter, will play tackle. The Hilltoppers only will have eight linemen on the team.

Junior RB/LB Drews takes on big role

Junior Callen Drews enters this season as the starting running back and linebacker for the Hilltoppers.

The 5-5, 215-pound Drews is quite different from his brother, Carter Drews, who was listed at 6-foot and 200 pounds and rushed for 1,830 yards and 27 touchdowns as a senior last year.

“I’ve lived under him my

The skinny

Coach: Jamie Link, second season, 7-4

Last season: 7-4, 2nd in the Trailways Conference; lost 35-0 to Kenosha St. Joseph in second round of Division 7 playo s

Returning players:

Callen Drews, jr., RB/LB; Jackson Drews, sr., OL/ LB; Dayton McBride, sr., QB/DB; Ivan Leija, sr., OL/DL; Alex Raymond, sr., WR/DB; Hoyt Helmer, jr., RB/LB

whole life and I feel like I can beat him most times,” Callen Drews said. “I’m trying to improve and do better than he did. I’m a lot more smashmouth. … I’m more physical and hit a lot harder than most.”

Carter Drews had size, strength and speed that ruined opposing teams’ defensive game plans. Link likes Callen Drews’ size and sees a successful season ahead.

“He’s way stronger than his brother,” Link said. “I really see him as that true bowling-ball running back that we have not had in our program in a really long time. He’s so low to the ground and he’s so strong, a lot of teams aren’t going

to be able to take him on straight on and take him to the ground.”

Link said Alex Raymond, Hoyt Helmer and Omar Salgado will play big roles in the run game.

Raymond still a big-time contributor

Raymond returns as a starting safety, where he intercepted six passes last season. That included four against Parkview/ Albany quarterback Mathias Treinen last season.

“He probably could’ve had a fifth if he didn’t drop it,” Link said. “His ability to see the field, his athletic ability to go sideline to sideline is incredibly impressive. In a lot of ways, I feel like he’s gotten faster.

“His speed and strength easily make him one of the best defensive backs in our conference.”

Raymond led the Hilltoppers with 59 total tackles last season.

“Playing safety on defense is the most fun to play,” he said. “I played corner sophomore year and it was not as good. Safety was a lot easier.”

KICKOFF 2025 | FALL RIVER/RIO

O ensive weapons plentiful for Rebels

Skilled backfield plus returning receivers give QB Robbins options

MARK MCMULLEN mmcmullen@wiscnews.com

Fall River seniors Kenny Robbins and Devan Turk are excited about playing their final season with the Fall River/Rio co-op football team. The thrill grows from playing the last three years with Rio teammates.

“Coming together as two towns is cool, watching each other grow in their own ways,” Turk said. “We see each other during football, and it’s cool to bond with them.”

The Rebels return 20 letterwinners, including 13 seniors and 10 starters.

Maturity levels have increased, which helps communication on the defensive side. Turk hopes it also helps the Rebels improve upon a 2-7 in 2024.

“We’re working on it and we’re very vocal,” Turk said. “It’s really just hammering it down on every single rep in practice. We’re making sure we’re vocal every single time.”

The defense gave up 29.9 points, 103.4 yards passing and 170.7 yards rushing a game last season.

“I think we’re all going to be on the same page this year on defense,” Turk said. “We’re going to be flying around and blowing everything up.”

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Rebels.

Cook transitions to o ensive line

Fall River/Rio coach Josh Haas earlier in the summer told senior Joe Cook he’d

Fall River/Rio’s

last season. Robbins returns this season

transition to right tackle.

“As a lineman, I think that’s a little more suited for me because I like contact and I like blocking,” Cook said.

Cook played tight end through his sophomore season and was a short-yardage running back for the Rebels last year.

“I know Joey is really physical and he was a really physical running back, so I know he will be really good on the line,” senior Riley Sell said. “He’s a perfect build for one.”

Cook likes pushing workouts in the weight room, so exercises didn’t change. He just lifted more weight in preparation.

Sell also transitions from tight end to right guard alongside Cook. They join three returning starters (center Will Homman, left guard Ethan Abegglen and left tackle Drew Tratar).

“I think it really starts with being physical,” Cook said. “I think our line is going to be a lot better. It’s not because we’re going in. I just think the chemistry is a lot better

this year.”

high expectations for the Rebels.

Running back position is stacked

Turk (572 yards, one touchdown) and sophomore Jaxon Tuchalski (505, 3) shared the load in the backfield last season.

“It’s really awesome going there and blocking for them because you know they’re going to make a play,” Sell said.

Turk said to expect bigger and better things from the two backs. They compete to be the fastest and strong enough to bulldoze opposing tacklers.

“I feel we are very similar

in our play style and our athleticism,” Turk said. “I think him being a younger guy, I really see myself in him. I try to bring him up.”

Tuchalski didn’t leave the field much as a freshman, starting at running back, defensive back and was the team’s punt and kick returner while also punting.

“He very much played to the varsity level,” Turk said. “His focus during practice has been locked in and leading the younger guys his

Date Game

Aug. 22

CAMBRIA-FRIESLAND

Aug. 29 at Dodgeland

Sept. 5 at Waterloo

Sept. 12

Sept. 19

PARDEEVILLE

MARKESAN

Sept. 26 at Deerfield

Oct. 3

MARSHALL

Oct. 10 at Cambridge

Oct. 17 at Poynette

Home games in BOLD CAPS Games are at 7p.m. and are subject to change

age with him having varsity experience. He feels like an older player. He’s raised the expectations for younger kids.”

Robbins excited about weapons returning

Robbins didn’t have the season he wanted last season. He completed just 38.3% of his passes for 439 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions.

He expects to be better with an improved o ensive line and experienced running backs.

“There are great playmakers,” he said. “They make my job a lot easier.”

Junior Kaden Seim caught 15 passes for 284 yards and four touchdowns.

The skinny

Coach: Josh Haas, third season, 9-18

Last season: 2-7, eighth in the Eastern Suburban Conference

Returning players: Ethan Abegglen, sr., OL/ DL; Devan Turk, sr., RB/ DB; Joe Cook, sr., LB/ OL; Kaden Seim, sr., WR/ DB; Kenny Robbins, sr., QB/DB

Senior Caleb Christian returns from a serious ankle injury. He caught five passes for 89 yards and a touchdown before going down.

“I trust him,” Robbins said. “I think he’s going to be really good.”

KICKOFF 2025 | REEDSBURG

Ground game soars behind Wing-T

Beavers return top rushers from o ense that averaged 35.2 points

SEAN DAVIS

sdavis@wiscnews.com

Calvin Zenz predicted the Reedsburg football team’s lumps su ered in 2023 would pay dividends last fall.

The fifth-year coach was spot on in that assessment as the Beavers were part of a five-way share of the Mississippi Valley Conference title and advanced to the second round of the playo s for the first time since 2019.

It has Zenz and the Beavers licking their chops for even bigger success this season.

“We’re really excited,” he said. “They’ve been working their butts o all o season, and we have a few really important guys that graduated to replace. But a lot of guys stepping up. If we can fill a couple of those holes that those guys left, we’re really looking forward to what this team can do.”

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Beavers.

Expect more dominance on ground

It took some time, but Reedsburg had one of the area’s most potent rushing attacks by the end of last season.

The Beavers’ move to the Wing-T led to 3,180 yards and 42 touchdowns on the ground, with a 35.2 pointsper-game average. Zenz has no intention of changing anything, except for getting more creative given opponents’ scouting reports.

“Now everybody else knows what we do,” he said. “Everyone spent the

o season studying how to stop us, so being ready for that is a big thing.”

It helps that Reedsburg returns leading rushers Will Mikonowicz and Landin Purifoy. Purifoy gained 1,174 yards with 19 touchdowns, while Mikonowicz tacked on 761 yards and 10 scores.

It’s an already impressive returning duo that Zenz said has gotten better in their own ways. Purifoy has improved on his lateral quickness, “which is a bit terrifying,” according to Zenz, while Mikonowicz had added a lot of confidence on top of more muscle mass heading into his second season under center.

“He’s going to bring a little bit more of a thunder roll, I think, at times to complement Landin, plus Will’s leadership,” Zenz said. “He was a captain as a junior, but his leadership and command of the o ense is spot on right now.”

O ensive line depth a positive problem

The Beavers should have no problem paving massive holes for Mikonowicz, Purifoy or some of the other backs who will factor into the ground game.

Reedsburg returns four of its five starting linemen from a season ago, with the lone departure being fouryear starter Kaiden Fuhrman. The 6-foot, 319-pounder was crucial to the o ensive operation, but Zenz said there’s uncharacteristically lots of competition across the line.

“We have a lot of linemen right now, which is not a thing we’ve had in the past, but there’s a lot of competition at the O-line spots,” Zenz said. “Guys are pushing each other and working really hard.”

The Beavers developed plenty of depth last season by rotating in players. Headlining that group is the

foursome of Avery Olson, Brayden Klemp, and twins Rylen and Landen Knuth. And for as much size as the group sports — they average 6-1¼, 233 pounds — their speed is more imposing.

“They’re big and they’re strong, but watching them move, it’s something,” Zenz said. “It’s a little bit crazy to see how quick that group is.”

Lockdown players littered on defense

Expect the Knuth twins to factor into the line on defense, too, as the Beavers look to curb the 27.5 points allowed per game last season.

The pair made an immediate impact as freshmen while also learning some key lessons along the way.

“Last year was a lot of trying to figure things out,” Zenz said. “You’re playing some really good teams, and now they basically know when they step on the field, they have not only what it takes to

Date Game

Aug. 22 MCFARLAND

Aug. 28 at DeForest

Sept. 5 LA CROSSE CENTRAL

Sept. 12 at Onalaska

Sept. 19 at Holmen

Sept. 26 BARABOO

Oct. 3 at La Crosse Logan

Oct. 10 SPARTA

Oct. 17 at Tomah

Home games in BOLD CAPS

Games are at 7p.m. and are subject to change

The skinny

Coach: Calvin Zenz, fifth season (ninth overall), 30-41

Last season: 6-3, 5-2 Mississippi Valley Conference; lost 34-33 to Waukesha Catholic Memorial in second round of Division 3 playo s

Key returnees: Will Mikonowicz, sr., QB/DB; Landin Purifoy, sr., RB/LB; Colin Wolf, jr., RB/LB; Evan Cooper, jr., RB/DB; Luke Spencer, sr., DB/RB; Grant Weber, jr., TE/LB; Josten Alt, sr., OL/LB; Avery Olson, sr., OL/DL; Rylen Knuth, so., OL/DL; Landen Knuth, so., OL/DL; Brayden Klemp, sr., OL/DL; Brett Wilson, sr., LB/TE

be out there, but I think it’ll take it to the level of dominant this year.”

Zenz expects a number of players to impact the competition at all three levels.

Colin Wolf and Grant Weber anchor the linebacking corps after recording 61 tackles apiece last season.

Josten Alt also will figure into the middle third of the Beavers defense, while Luke Spencer looks primed for a big season in the secondary. Spencer had a team-best six passes defensed and two interceptions last season and already showed his growth in 7-on-7 this summer.

KICKOFF 2025 | PARDEEVILLE

Skill on both lines a huge strength

Big boys up front figure to be tone-setters for Bulldogs

NILE MCNAIR

nmcnair@madison.com

Pardeeville found great success during its inaugural football season in the Eastern Suburban Conference last season.

The Bulldogs managed to double their win total and host their first playo game since 2010.

A senior class of 14 players now has set higher goals for their final season donning the blue and gold.

“Our big goal this year is making a deeper run in the playo s,” Pardeeville coach Robert Harry said.

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Bulldogs.

Winning on the lines

Powering the Bulldogs’ postseason aspirations are their o ensive and defensive lines.

Joe Dosemagen, a firstteam all-conference selection, leads an o ensive line that’s at least 6-foot-2 and 240 pounds across the board.

Pardeeville’s new stable of running backs is the primary benefactor of the potential line of scrimmage dominance.

Devin Jerome, Karrsen Bussan and Kingston Galetka will

share time in the backfield for Pardeeville’s o ense, which uses concepts of pistol, shotgun and WingT formations.

“One of the things we’re changing a little bit in the o ense is controlling who’s going to be in the backfield and who’s going to be a wing or slot,” Harry said. “With those three, rotating them in to make sure they’re fresh throughout the season.”

Meanwhile, Cody Gentz anchors the defensive front after posting 21 total tackles, a sack and two fumble recoveries last season, per WisSports.net.

“Last year he was a sophomore starting on the o ensive and defensive line,” Harry said. “He put the time in the weight room in the o season, he’s got big and so he’ll be a load to handle up front.”

Roaming behind that front four are Bussan and Galetka, two all-state wrestlers.

The tandem will split time between safety and linebacker, offering them chances to make tackles in space.

“Just

letting those guys use their speed to catch and run people down, and then using their ability as wrestlers to be physical inside and take on the run too,” Harry said.

New leaders in command

Quarterbacks and linebackers are in charge of organizing their respective sides of the ball, a responsibility that’ll fall upon two new Pardeeville starters this season.

like to run the quarterback as well.”

The Bulldogs at linebacker are tasked with replacing first team all-conference performers Ashton Whitehorse and Caleb Mackey.

Brady Dolgner joins the pairing of Bussan and Galetka as Pardeeville looks to “start this tradition of having a good linebacking corps every year,” Harry said.

Date Game

Aug. 22 WAUPUN

Aug. 29 NEW LISBON

Sept. 5 at Marshall

Sept. 12 at Fall River/Rio

Sept. 19 POYNETTE

Sept. 26 WATERLOO

Oct. 3 CAMBRIDGE

Oct. 10 MARKESAN

Oct. 17 at Deerfield

Home games in BOLD CAPS

Julian Wells looks to fill the shoes of quarterback Logan Young, who had a team-high 895 yards passing and 1,126 yards rushing, along with 25 total touchdowns, per WisSports.net.

While early-season growing pains are expected, Harry believes the junior can succeed once he’s acclimated to the varsity level.

“We’re excited about him because he comes from family history at Pardeeville, as his dad was a good running back for us back in the day,” Harry said. “He’s got a lot of his dad’s athletic ability, and so we’re excited to see what he can do at quarterback because we do

Dolgner has played junior varsity the past three seasons and patiently waited to leave his imprint on the program.

“He never quit, he never complained and so when he got his opportunities, he maximized them to the point where, we’re confident about just letting him back in and putting him in that starting role this year,” Harry said.

Improving in margins

Last season’s first-round playo loss to Howards Grove was an indicator that Pardeeville must improve on “the little things,” Harry said.

Small details proved pivotal against higher levels of competition, whether it was holding blocks for an extra second or relying upon fundamentals instead of athleticism.

“We have stu that we can take advantage of when we see the defense and we

Games are at 7 p.m. and are subject to change

The skinny

Coach: Robert Harry, third season, 12-7

Last season: 8-2, 6-1 Eastern Suburban Conference; lost 26-15 to Howards Grove in first round of Division 6 playo s

Returning: Devin Jerome, jr., RB/S; Karrsen Bussan, so., RB/LB; Julian Wells, jr., QB; Kingston Galetka, sr., RB/S; Cody Gentz, jr., OL/DL; Joseph Dosemagen, sr., OL/DL; Joseph Waydick, sr., OL/DL

have to be more consistent about that this year,” Harry said. “Taking what the defense gives us and not forcing something.”

The Bulldogs want their attention to detail showcased in the season opener against Waupun. A statement win in Week 1 will instill confidence in a

Pardeeville team hoping to reach at least the third round of the postseason this season.

“Win or lose, it’s getting us ready for that next step as a program to constantly challenge us because we do have to catch up with the Sheboygan area,” Harry said.

KICKOFF 2025 | MAUSTON

New voice leads Golden Eagles

Whalen likes what he sees so far as Mauston coach

SEAN DAVIS sdavis@wiscnews.com

The Mauston football team saw its streak of consecutive playo appearances end at nine last season.

The Golden Eagles will look to restart that streak this season under a new coach, as Nick Whalen takes over for Dustin Vickerman, who stepped down after three seasons in charge following last season’s 2-7 campaign.

Whalen, a 15-year assistant with numerous stops across the state and at the collegiate level, is excited to take over his own program and has a simple goal in mind.

“This is my dream,” he said. “The program hasn’t been thriving, which is kind of why I’m here. I want to try to get it back to that.”

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Golden Eagles.

‘Good character is there’

Whalen didn’t get much time to work with the Golden Eagles in the o season ahead of the true start to the fall campaign.

The School District of Mauston announced his hiring June 3 on social media, and it wasn’t until “roughly late June” that the entire Golden Eagles sta was assembled, according to Whalen.

Despite that truncated introduction period, Whalen said the team has shown

The skinny

Coach: Nick Whalen, first season

Last season: 2-7, 2-5 South Central Conference

Key returnees: Masyn Bires, sr., QB/LB; Eli Rader, sr., LB/RB; Logan Zimbauer, jr., WR/DB; Brian Kastner, jr., TE/LB; Keegan Fessey, sr., OL/ DL; Branson Bilka, sr., OL/DL; Kyler Wurster, sr., OL/DL; Cam Walz, sr., WR/DB; Cody Komiskey, sr., WR/LB; Diego Flores, jr., WR/DB; Austin Hunter, jr., OL/LB

preferences on both sides of the ball.

On o ense, that means making the most out of the personnel and what the defense gives you.

“To me, the game of football is a numbers game, it’s an angles game and a space game,” Whalen said. “It’s a

a ton of buy-in to what he and the other coaches are looking to implement.

“I think some of that excitement has kind of bled into the kids and a lot more have kind of shown up,” he said about the team’s o season workouts and practices.

Two traits that stood out most to Whalen were the group’s character and work ethic. Whalen said the team was quick to do tasks without being told and reciprocated the excitement he showed toward them.

“I think that good character is there, and I think that just bleeds over,” he said. “I think there’s trying times in every football season, every game, where, if you have the good character, once you build on the football with that, good things will happen.”

O ense driven by numbers game

Whalen’s decade and a half of coaching experience has allowed him to develop his own style and

Please see MAUSTON, Page 24

Mauston

lot more strategy, and that’s something that I really enjoy about the game, and I’ve always enjoyed.”

Don’t expect a strict double-wing look like when Whalen was an assistant at Je erson under former longtime coach Steve Gee. Whalen instead intends to utilize both the pass and run game while making the most of the Golden Eagles’ skill sets.

“I think a good coach dictates your scheme and your strategy based on our personnel,” he said.

Whalen will have to replace the team’s leading passer, rusher and

receiver. Masyn Bires and Eli Rader both have made good impressions so far and will figure into the o ensive backfield in some capacity.

Rader was the Golden Eagles’ second-leading receiver last season, and second-leading rusher Tyler Hartje also returns.

New leader headlines D

Whalen has plenty of holes to fill defensively, most notably leading tackler Hayden Gyllin, who tallied 106 tackles, including 66 solo, with nine tackles for loss last season.

Gyllin also served as the heartbeat of Mauston’s defense.

Whalen believes last season’s second-leading tackler, Brian Kastner,

Date

can fill those shoes, given his similar build.

“He’s definitely a kid that showed up (in the summer) and his size really popped out with me,” Whalen said.

Kastner notched 47 tackles, including four tackles for loss, in just seven games last season. Whalen thinks Kastner can serve in the same dual role Gyllin did last season in which he also led the Golden Eagles in rushing with 1,028 yards and nine scores.

“I think that he has the size that if we needed him to deploy both ways, in terms of kind of what Hayden was, where he’s your mike linebacker, he can be your running back,” Whalen said. “He definitely can carry the load and take a big portion.”

Game

Aug. 22 ST. CROIX CENTRAL

Aug. 29 at Sparta

Sept. 5 at Wautoma

Sept. 12 BERLIN

Sept. 19 at Adams-Friendship

Sept. 26 RIPON

Oct. 3 at Wisconsin Dells

Oct. 10 WAUPUN

Oct. 17 NEKOOSA

Home games in BOLD CAPS

Games are at 7p.m. and are subject to change

KICKOFF 2025 | BARABOO

Familiar face back in charge at Baraboo

Turkington back at helm after stepping down following tough 2024 season

SEAN DAVIS sdavis@wiscnews.com

Steve Turkington was blunt in his assessment looking back at the Baraboo football team’s 2024 season.

“Last year was a total failure on my part,” the longtime coach said. “Whether it was a failure of leadership, a failure in scheme, a failure in practice habits, a failure in accountability, a failure in holding high standards. All those things are my fault.”

It showed in the Thunderbirds’ 0-9 season, the program’s first winless campaign since 2009. That’s given Turkington and an experienced group of returners motivation to flip the script this fall.

“We want to turn the page as quickly as possible,” Turkington said. “They’ve developed a mindset of team first and have worked really hard during the o season.”

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Thunderbirds.

Burnout led to renewed spark for Turkington

After 11 years in charge of the Thunderbirds, Turkington stepped down after the conclusion of last season. He cited “total burnout” for his decision.

“I love coaching football,” he said. “I would do it until I’m 80, but it’s all the other things. I don’t think there’s any other sport where you have as much camera equipment, technology, travel issues, paperwork,

Date Game

Aug. 22at Sauk Prairie

Aug. 28 PORTAGE

Sept. 5 TOMAH

Sept. 12vs. La Crosse Central at UW-La Crosse

Sept. 19 ONALASKA

Sept. 26at Reedsburg

Oct. 3 HOLMEN

Oct. 10 LA CROSSE LOGAN

Oct. 17at Sparta

Home games in BOLD CAPS

Games are at 7p.m. and are subject to change

film breakdowns, strategy breakdowns, all that stu . A lot of that falls on the head coach.”

After a three-month

search for his replacement, however, Baraboo athletic director Jim Langkamp approached Turkington about returning. The

returning players immediately hooked Turkington to renege on his decision.

“Knowing that I had these young guys that I really, really like and are hardworking kids with the right attitude coming into the program, I felt bad leaving,” said Turkington, who plans to delegate more responsibilities to his assistants.

“As we went through the process of the o season, I wanted to come back and at least be able to coach these guys. So I’m fired up to coach this group of guys.”

Poker returns from hiatus to lead o ense

The T-Birds struggled to move the ball o ensively last season, mustering just 9.4 points per game and

scoring at least 10 points just three times. Turkington said the o ensive woes stemmed from week-toweek changes.

To curb that, Turkington is returning to the singlewing scheme the program previously ran.

“That’s more our style,” he said. “We’re just going to be a school that’s going

to bully people, and that’s the only way we can do it.” Leading the return to the familiar o ensive look is quarterback Peyton Poker. The senior signal-caller is back after a one-year hiatus to focus on baseball. Turkington believes the stress Poker has faced on

KICKOFF 2025 | WISCONSIN DELLS

Chiefs confident they can fill holes

SEAN DAVIS sdavis@wiscnews.com

The Wisconsin Dells football program has experienced a run of success since Mike Janke took over ahead of the 2020 season.

The Chiefs have become an annual contender in the South Central Conference, with five successive winning seasons, five straight playo appearances and four consecutive years finishing no worse than second in the league standings.

This season’s group faces significant graduation losses to make up for, but the cupboard isn’t empty. Janke is confident the mix of old and new has what it takes to keep the Chiefs among the SCC’s best. He just doesn’t know how much of a learning curve they face.

“Sometimes it takes a few weeks; sometimes they get it right away,” Janke said. “We’ll see if we’re ready.”

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Chiefs.

O ensive rebuild in

reliable hands

Wisconsin Dells’ biggest holes to fill are on o ense. Most notably gone are 2,000-yard rusher Sam Ersland, all five starting linemen and the team’s top five receivers from a team that averaged 32.6 points per game last season.

As much firepower as that is to replace, the person calling the shots o ensively is back. Senior quarterback Lex Reittinger is back for the third straight season, giving Janke some stability.

“If you have the quarterback, then everyone else kind of follows suit,” Janke said. “So it’s nice from that standpoint, where we don’t have to prepare as much to install everything because

SEAN

DAVIS, LEESPORTS WISCONSINARCHIVES

Wisconsin Dells quarterback Lex Reittinger drops back to pass during a Division 4 opening-round playo game against Lodi last season.

he’s there and he can general that o ense and make sure that everyone’s good to go.”

Reittinger has thrown for more than 1,000 yards in both of the last two seasons, including 1,179 yards, nine touchdowns and eight interceptions last season.

He’ll look to improve on those numbers behind a new o ensive line. Janke said the Chiefs “basically have our JV line coming up,”

but he’s encouraged by the group as it mirrors the 2023 Dells team.

“It’ll just be a di erent jive with this group, but we’ll find something that fits,” Janke said.

Defensive force up front poised to grow

That fit might include Hendrix Dawson, who could spend more time on o ense.

The sophomore made quite an impact last season, using his 6-foot-4, 235-pound frame to rack up a third-best 54 tackles, including four tackles for loss, and a pair of fumble recoveries.

Dawson already has made big strides in the weight room, according to Janke.

More importantly, Janke is looking for Dawson to take a step on the leadership side after the loss of leading tackler Logan Goodrich.

“He’s young, but he’s not afraid to get the older kids in line, even last year as a freshman,” Janke said. “He’s got that talent and that natural leadership skills where

The skinny

Coach: Mike Janke, sixth season, 36-13

Last season: 7-3, 6-1 South Central Conference; lost 37-20 to Lodi in first round of WIAA Division 4 playo s.

Key returnees: Boyd Witt, WR/DB, Sr.; Devon Henry, LB/WR, Sr.; Lex Reittinger, QB/LB, Sr.; Bear Reittinger, WR/ DB, Jr.; Jax Gall, QB/TE/ LB, Jr.; Carter Syverson, WR/DB, Sr., Logan Cunningham, WR/DB, Sr.; Kashton Stoddard, RB/ DB, Sr.; Blake Meister, OL/DL, Sr.; Hendrix Dawson, DL/OL, So.

his buds will listen to him as well.

“We’re hoping that he can kind of blossom into that leadership role as well so that he’s not only skilled, but he’s a leader as well, because that’s what takes any team to the next level.”

Intrigue at skill positions

Janke will need to utilize some unknown athleticism

Please see DELLS, Page 30

Modest expectations fuel Eagles

Sauk Prairie lost all but two offensive starters off playoff team

NILE MCNAIR

nmcnair@madison.com

An abundance of new starters and underclassmen hope to create their own path within the Sauk Prairie football program this season.

The newcomers are looking to build upon last season’s success, when the Eagles ended a five-year playo drought.

Sauk Prairie is amongst the Badger Small Conference challengers looking to dethrone Mount Horeb/ Barneveld, which has won four straight league titles.

“We’re picked to finish clear at the bottom of the conference, so the guys got a chip on their shoulder already,” coach Randy Wallace said. “Their motto this year is ‘Revenge tour’ and they’re upset about a lot of things.”

Here are three things to know about the 2025 Eagles.

Quarterback competition

There will be a new signal-caller for Sauk Prairie this season.

Riley Jadack, who played defensive end a year ago, and last year’s backup quarterback, Cayden Hermsdorf, will battle throughout preseason practices to determine who’ll replace Landon Schultz.

Schultz started the past two seasons and had 2,715 yards passing and 29 touchdown passes while leading the Eagles’ o ense, per WisSports.net.

Wallace said Sauk Prairie will change its o ensive approach with a new quarterback this season.

“The last couple years we were more of a pass-first and run-second o ense,” Wallace said. “It’s going to be more of a run first, pass second this year, as they’re a little more built to run than they are to pass.”

Sauk Prairie only has two returning starters on o ense.

Junior Wyatt Gibbs, along with underclassmen James Holdener and Brock Maier, will compete for the starting running back spot.

Blayze Caldwell has emerged as the Eagles’ No. 1 wide receiver, stepping in for Boden Frosch, who had a team-high 436 yards receiving last season, per WisSports.net.

“He’s had a good o season, had a good summer, so I’m looking forward to him stepping into that slot spot for Boden,” Wallace said.

Defense leads way

Sauk Prairie will rely heavily on its defense this season with so much o ensive turnover.

The Eagles have six returning starters on defense, including leading tackler Bryan Breunig and Jake Buckles, who led the

team with three forced fumbles, per WisSports.net.

“I really feel early on the defense is going to carry us until our o ense gets our little kinks worked out and gets clicking,” Wallace said.

Sauk Prairie will operate in a 5-2 defensive formation again this season. Defensive coordinator Eric Krivanek is looking for a new leader of his unit following the departure of starting linebacker Lawson Maier.

Sophomore Gage Davis has been preparing to take over that role, with Holdener also spending time at linebacker.

Replacing last season’s starting safety, Trent Backeberg, who had a teamhigh three interceptions, is another challenge for the Eagles.

“That was kind of a big player for us last year,” Wallace said.

Sauk Prairie’s strongest position group is the defensive line, spearheaded by Buckles, sophomore Jameson Lewellin and Jadack, if he loses the quarterback competition.

A dynamic pass rush is one of many things Wallace wants opponents to see while preparing to face the Eagles this season.

“I want them to see that we are more disciplined

Date

Game

Aug. 22 BARABOO

Aug. 29 HOLMEN

Sept. 5 at Watertown

Sept. 12 BEAVER DAM

Sept. 19 LAKESIDE LUTHERAN

Sept. 26 at Mount Horeb/Barneveld

Oct. 3 PORTAGE

Oct. 10 at Stoughton

Oct. 17 at Madison Edgewood

Home games in BOLD CAPS Games are at 7p.m. and are subject to change

than we have been in the past and we’re more sound,” Wallace said.

Youth movement

The Eagles were led by 15 seniors last season, and their goal was to experience postseason football for the first time.

However, a youthful group that Wallace said is “positively naive” is determined to achieve more this season.

“I think last year we got complacent once we achieved the playo s,” Wallace said. “Their goal is to win a playo game this year, so their mindset is just a little bit di erent than last year’s crew.”

The influx of younger players has created a competitive environment at practice, with starting spots available on both sides of the ball.

“We don’t care if you’re a freshman,” Wallace said. “If you can compete and take a spot from a senior, all the more power to you.”

The skinny

Coach: Randy Wallace, fifth season, 11-26

Last season: 5-5, 4-3 Badger Small Conference; lost 36-6 to Mount Horeb/ Barneveld in first round of Division 3 playo s

Returning: Bryan Breunig, sr., LB; Jake Buckles, sr., OL/DL; Jameson Lewellin, so., OL/DL; Gage Davis, jr., LB; Wyatt Gibbs, sr., RB/ CB; Blayze Caldwell, sr., WR/DB; Riley Jadack, sr., QB/DL; Cayden Hermsdorf, sr., QB/DB

Greatness

goals was also a record.

Yelk earned all-state honors for his kicking that year. He changed his focus from kicking to safety at Minnesota-Duluth, where he holds the record for most career tackles. He now coaches safeties at Northern Illinois.

DEFENSE

Brady Puls, DL, Lodi class of 2024

Lodi went 15-0 while allowing just 98 points in 2023. Linebacker Brady Puls was at the center of the Blue Devils’ defense, finishing his senior season with 80 tackles, 23 tackles for loss and four sacks.

Puls had two tackles in Lodi’s 38-14 WIAA Division 4 state title win over Luxemburg-Casco that season, but his best work came in the games leading up to the championship. He had 13 tackles in the semifinals against BaldwinWoodville and 10 against Appleton Xavier in the quarterfinals, according to WisSports.net.

Puls finished his time at Lodi with 149 career tackles, 28 tackles for loss, four sacks and an interception. His teammates voted him the Blue Devils’ Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and 2023. Puls earned all-state honors from the WFCA in 2023 and currently plays college football at UW-Eau-Claire.

Justin Ostrowski, DL, Portage class of 2003

Justin Ostrowski is one of the highest-ranked football recruits ever to come out of Wisconsin. The 2003 Gatorade Player of the Year for football committed to the Badgers in 2003 as a five-star recruit and the second-best defensive end in the country.

The 2002 WFCA Co-Defensive Player of the Year tallied 108 tackles, 14 sacks and 15 tackles for loss during his senior season. He finished his career with 318 total tackles, 30 sacks and 28 tackles for loss. Ostrowski played two seasons

KICKOFF 2025

for the Badgers before a knee injury ended his football career. He now serves on the board of directors for Portage’s youth football program.

Malani Aragon, DL, Columbus class of 2023

Malani Aragon amassed 309 total tackles, 142 solo tackles, 26 tackles for a loss and 10 sacks over his four seasons as a starting defensive lineman for Columbus, according to WisSports.net.

He was named to the WFCA AllState team as an inside linebacker after his senior season, finishing with 151 tackles, seven tackles for loss and 3½ sacks while helping Columbus win the WIAA Division 5 state title.

Aragon had 11 tackles to help Columbus beat Waukesha Catholic Memorial 23-21 in the championship game at Camp Randall Stadium.

Jacob Erbs, LB, Reedsburg class of 2016

Jacob Erbs was named the 2015 Badger North Conference Defensive Player of the Year after recording 170 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, six sacks and two fumble recoveries as a senior.

His contributions on defense helped the Beavers go 4-2 in conference play and make it to the 2015 WIAA Division 3 state semifinals, where they fell to Waukesha Catholic Memorial 42-6.

Erbs finished his high school career with 409 total tackles, 43 tackles for loss, six sacks, seven fumble recoveries and seven interceptions, according to WisSports.net.

He went on to play linebacker at UW-Whitewater.

Alex Mashak, LB, Lodi class of 2017

Lodi has produced some of the best defensive players in the area, including Alex Mashak, a 2016 WFCA first-team All-State outside linebacker. Mashak tallied 135 career tackles, 17 tackles for loss, seven sacks, six interceptions and

please see GREATNESS, page 29

KICKOFF 2025

Greatness

From 28

two interceptions returned for a touchdown in his three years with the Blue Devils.

He helped Lodi advance to the WIAA Division 4 state championship game during his sophomore season. Mashak had three tackles, but the defense couldn’t hold Osceola, and the Blue Devils lost 28-0.

The outside linebacker recorded 62 tackles, eight tackles for loss, four sacks and three interceptions during his senior season. He went on to play football at UW-Eau Claire.

Zach Steuck, LB, Lodi class of 2016

Zach Steuck was one of five linebackers named a finalist for the WisSports.net John Anderson Award for his dominating defense for Lodi. Steuck helped his team shut out its first six opponents in 2015 and allowed just 47 points that season. He finished the season with 75 tackles, six tackles for loss and four forced fumbles.

The Blue Devils rode their dominant defense to the WIAA Division 4 state title game before losing to Osceola 28-0. Steuck finished the championship game

with 10 tackles and a sack.

Steuck finished his Lodi career with 194 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, six sacks, eight forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries and four interceptions. He played college football at Northern Michigan.

Ross Liegel, LB, Baraboo class of 2024

Ross Liegel played three seasons with the varsity team and tallied 110 solo tackles, 168 total tackles, 17 tackles for loss and 15.5 sacks. He was especially dominant his senior season, recording more than two-thirds of his career sacks in 2023.

Liegel finished with nine solo tackles and four sacks in a onepoint loss to Onalaska. He made the WFCA all-state team as a defensive end in 2023 and currently is a redshirt freshman at Northern Illinois.

Logan Furniss, DB, Lodi class of 2015

Logan Furniss helped Lodi go 26-7 from 2012-14 as a three-time all-conference defender. Furniss had 30 tackles, three tackles for loss and three interceptions as a senior to help Lodi go 11-2 and make it to the 2014 WIAA Division 4 state semifinals before losing to Little Chute 29-26. Furniss earned

all-state honors from the WFCA and was named honorable mention all-state by the Associated Press.

Lodi went 10-1 in 2013, and Furniss had six interceptions during the regular season to go with 29 tackles and two fumble recoveries. He was all-state honorable mention and first-team All-Capitol North Conference.

Furniss played one year of college football at Augustana University in South Dakota.

Brady Link, DB, Columbus class of 2024

Brady Link finished his high school career with 154 tackles, 10 interceptions, five forced fumbles and a fumble return for a touchdown.

His defense during his junior season helped Columbus limit opponents to 10.5 points per game on its way to the 2022 WIAA Division 4 state championship. He missed the final two games of the season due to ACL and MCL injuries, but his teammates helped him in for the final possession of the title game in recognition for his contributions that season.

Link returned for his senior season and once again dominated on defense. Columbus held opponents to 10.8 points per game, and Link recorded 45 tackles and six

interceptions. Link was named to the WFCA all-state team in his comeback season.

Bill Holland, DB, Pardeeville class of 2003

Bill Holland remains in the state record book more than 20 years after graduating. His 12 interceptions in a season is tied for the fourth-most in state history.

The Bulldogs went 6-4 and 3-0 in conference play during his senior season in 2002. Holland was named to the WFCA’s all-state first team, and his seven interceptions during the regular season stands as a Trailways Conference record.

Holland is tied for ninth alltime in state history with 21 career interceptions.

Teagan Herschleb, DB, Columbus class of 2020

Teagan Herschleb was a consistent defender for his first three years at Columbus, but he took it to another level for his senior season. The two-time first-team all-stater had 83 total tackles, two fumble recoveries, four forced fumbles and four interceptions. His efforts earned him the Capitol North Conference Defensive Player of the Year award.

Herschleb tallied 66 tackles, eight interceptions and the lone defensive touchdown of his career as a junior.

Herschleb finished his Columbus career with 193 total tackles, 13 interceptions and five forced fumbles. He’s now a defensive assistant at UW-Stevens Point.

Date Game

Aug. 21 at Portage

Aug. 29 at River Valley

Sept. 5 ADAMS-FRIENDSHIP

Sept. 12 at Ripon

Sept. 19 WAUTOMA

Sept. 26 at Berlin

Oct. 3 MAUSTON

Oct. 10 at Nekoosa

Oct. 17 WAUPUN

Home games in BOLD CAPS Games are at 7p.m. and are subject to change

Dells

at the skill positions to keep the Chiefs in SCC title contention alongside reigning champion Berlin.

“We’ve got a lot of middleweight athletes that we can kind of mold,” Janke said. “It’s nice having all those athletes you can plug and play at di erent positions and see what they can do.”

Janke expects Gavin Hristov to factor in the backfield alongside Kashton Stoddard and Devon Henry.

“He’s a young go-getter and he just wants to play; he wants to contribute to

the team,” Janke said about Hristov. “He’s got a very open mindset, and he’s put the work in during the summer.”

Carter Syverson is back again after ending a multiyear hiatus hiatus last season, while Mikey Dimitrov is another newcomer looking to make an impact. The key for Janke is not only finding their right position but getting them up to speed.

“They’ve never played before at the high school level, so can you do it with shoulder pads and a helmet on getting into contact?” he said. “Hopefully we can find a spot for them where they can succeed.”

Baraboo

the diamond as the T-Birds’ starting catcher and one of the team’s pitchers will suit him as he takes over under center.

He’ll have a deep group of linemen to rely on, led by seniors Hayden Sulik, John Rogers, Aiden Dineen and Cayden Hinze.

Skill players eager to step up

Baraboo has key holes to fill on both sides of the ball. The T-Birds lost their leading rusher and receiver as well as their top two tacklers and leaders on defense.

“We got some young guys with the same mindset, that same work ethic,” Turkington said. “That’s going to be hard to replace, but we got guys. That’s the thing. They’re just waiting in the wings.”

Ethan Huelsemann returns to lead the ground game, while Turkington expects Rashad Hodges, Drake Niles and Isaac Stelzer also to figure into the offense, either on the ground or through the air.

Huelsemann also will anchor the defense at linebacker, alongside Gabe Arnold and Logan Sweeney, the latter of whom shifts back after playing defensive line last season. Hodges, Poker and Maguire O’Leary will be key defensive backs.

Turkington plans to return to a more traditional scheme after making illfated changes last season.

“What I’ve been impressed by is the way these guys have embraced this,” he said. “We’ve just got to make sure that we do right by the kids, by practicing the right way, having the right standards and having the right scheme.”

The skinny

Coach: Steve turkington, 12th season, 41-66

Last season: 0-9, 0-7 Mississippi Valley conference

Key returnees: gabe arnold, sr., Wr/dB; Maguire o’lear y, jr., Wr/dB; rashad hodges, jr., Wr/dB; drake niles, sr., rB/dl; owen rogers, jr., QB/lB; ethan huelsemann, jr., rB/ lB; peyton poker, sr., QB/lB; logan Sweeney, sr., FB/dl; cayden hinze, sr., ol/dl; John rogers, sr., ol/ dl; hayden Sulik, sr., ol/dl; aiden dineen, sr., ol/dl; easton Schultz, sr., Wr/dB

GoodLuckWonewocCenter/WestonSilverWolves

WONEWOC-CENTER/WESTON

2025Schedule

Aug.21st 7:00p.m. NorthCrawford WestonHighSchool

Aug.29th 7:00p.m. ValleyChristianSchool Valley ChristianHighSchool

Sept.5th 7:00p.m. DeSoto Wonewoc-CenterHighSchool

Sept.12th 5:30p.m. Monticello WestonHighSchool

Sept.19th 7:00p.m. Belmont BelmontHighSchool

Sept.26th 7:00p.m. Highland Wonewoc-CenterHighSchool

Oct.3rd 7:00p.m. Kickapoo/LaFarge KickapooHighSchool Oct.10th 7:00p.m. WisconsinHeights WisconsinHeightsHighSchool

2025Wonewoc-Center/WestonRoster

0Olsen,Gavin6’0170RB/LBSR 1 Landsinger,Tatyn 5’9130RB/DBJR 2Carlson,Cash5’11175RB/LBSR 6Byrdy.Jack6’4190QB/DLJR 9Gregory,Brayden5’9180OL/LBSR 10Calson,Aidan5’10155RB/DBSO 13Keller,Jacob5’9145QB/DBFR 18Thellefsen,Cam6’5175TE/DLJR 26Weber.James6’1185TE/LBSR 28Wolfe,Gabe5’9155RB/DBSO

30Roehling,Tommy5’9150RB/DBJR 31Jefferies,Talan5’11185TE/DLSO 33Wallmer,Landyn5’10175RB/LBFR 48Brandt,Brycen5’9160OL/LBSO 54Frick,Aiden6’0245OL/DLSO 68Westphl,Trevor5’10210OL/DLSR 71VanCoulter,Mason6’0220OL/DLFR 78Hill,Jonathan6’6280OL/DLFR 81Catherall,Kashton6’1155TE/DLFR

JakeMcGlynn-HeadFootballCoach

Necedah CardinalsProud!

2025VARSITYSCHEDULE OPPONENT

Friday,Aug.22nd 7p.m.Osseo-FairchildNecedahHighSchool

Friday,Aug.29th 7p.m.Melrose-MindoroMelrose-MindoroHighSchool

Friday,Sept.5th 7p.m.CashtonCashtonHighSchool

Friday,Sept.12th 7p.m.HillsboroHillsboroHighSchool

Friday,Sept.19th 7p.m.BangorNecedahHighSchool

Friday,Sept.26th 7p.m.IthacaNecedahHighSchool

Friday,Oct.3rd 7p.m.NewLisbonNecedahHighSchool

Friday,Oct.10th 7p.m.RoyallRoyallHighSchool

Friday,Oct.18th 7p.m.BrookwoodNecedahHighSchool

GoRoyallPanthers!

2025VARSITYSchedule

Fri., Aug. 22nd 7p.m.ClearLake DurandHighSchool

Thurs., Aug. 28th 7p.m.Cochrane-FountainCityRoyallHighSchool

Fri.,Sept.5th 7p.m.New Lisbon New LisbonHighSchool

Fri.,Sept.12th 7p.m.Brookwood BrookwoodHighSchool

Fri.,Sept.19th 7p.m.Hillsboro RoyallHighSchool

Fri.,Sept.26th 7p.m.Bangor BangorHighSchool

Sat.,Oct.4th 1:30 p.m.Ithaca IthacaHighSchool

Fri.,Oct.10th 7p.m.Necedah RoyallHighSchool

Fri.,Oct.17th 7p.m.Cashton RoyallHighSchool

We’reNewLisbon RocketProud!

NEWLISBON

FootballFall2025Schedule

1RowynSloan 12WR/LB

2GradyBarfknecht 11QB/DB

3JamesonPfaff 12WR/DB

4GavinGesler 10WR/LB

5JoshHoman 12WR/DB

6DawsonStickney 10WR/DB

7ChaceBradley 11WR/DB

8ColbyPfaff 10WR/LB

9NickByrd 11FB/LB

11CashPlueger 11WR/DB

13ClaytonJensen 9WR/DB

14JacobTreml 9WR/LB

21BradenMiller 12WR/LB

22KaydenLaborde 9WR/LB

23JudeKeltner 11FB/LB

50NathanJensen 12OL/DE

54ColeAhlers 12OL/DL

60ThomasAnderson 9OL/DL

70WyattScott 9OL/DL

71DanielSchonasky 9OL/DL

72AlexSzekely 9OL/DL

JaminDay 10

Friday,Aug22,20257:00PM NeillsvilleatNewLisbon

Friday,Aug29,20257:00PM NewLisbonatPardeeville

Friday,Sept05,20257:00PM RoyallatNewLisbon

Friday,Sept12,20257:00PM NewLisbonatCashton

Friday,Sept19,20257:00PM BrookwoodatNewLisbon

Friday,Sept26,20257:00PM NewLisbonatHillsboro

Friday,Oct03,20257:00PM NewLisbonatNecedah

Friday,Oct10,20257:00PM BangoratNewLisbon

Friday,Oct17,20257:00PM IthacaatNewLisbon ServingBreakfast &Lunch Wednesday-Sundays from7a.m.-1p.m. FridayFishFry until8p.m. PizzasMonday 4-8p.m.

We’reMayville CardinalProud!

MAYVILLE

HIGHSCHOOL2025-2026

VARSITY

FOOTBALL

HeadCoach: ScottHilber OffensiveCoordinator: KevinKnoll AssistantCoaches: MacMcFadden DannyDecker JeremySchraufnagel StanWeiss

FOOTBALL: VarsityFall2025Schedule

Friday,August22,2025

Game 7:00PM CedarGrove-Belgium CedarGrove-BelgiumHighSchool

Friday,August29,2025

Game 7:00PM Horicon/Hustisford MayvilleHighSchoolRayDunnField

Friday,September5,2025

Game 7:00PM Winnebago WinnebagoLutheranAcademy LutheranAcademy

Friday,September12,2025

Game 7:00PM NorthFondduLac MayvilleHighSchoolRayDunnField

Friday,September19,2025

Game 7:00PM Campbellsport MayvilleHighSchoolRayDunnField

Friday,September26,2025

Game 7:00PM StMarysSpringsAcademy StMarysAcademy-FruthField

Friday,October3,2025

Game 7:00PM Omro MayvilleHighSchoolRayDunnField

Friday,October10,2025

Game 7:00PM Laconia StMarysAcademy-FruthField

Friday,October17,2025

Game 7:00PM Lomira

MayvilleHighSchoolRayDunnField