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HS Football Preview –2024 Nekoosa Papermakers

Nekoosa Papermakers

 

2023 Record: 3-6 (2-5 Central Wisconsin Large)

 

Head Coach: Derek Baker (2nd Season 3-6 Record)

 

Mike’s 2024 Projected Record 3-6 (1-6 South Central Conference)

 

 

Players to Watch: QB/DB Nash Krcmar RB/LB Francisco Vega RB/DB Jacob Bertling WR/DB Branden Winteland    

 

Team Preview: The Nekoosa Papermakers are back in the South Central Conference after a brief absence.  The Papermakers have not had a lot of success over recent years but have some young talent on this years team.  Nash Krcmar led the team in passing and rushing last season and is back to lead the offense.  Krcmar ran for nearly 600yards and threw for 497 yards and accounted for 15 offensive touchdowns for the papermakers.  Francisco Vega (95-522 5tds) and Jacob Bertling (103-466 4tds) are back to lead a heavy rushing attack for Nekoosa.  The Papermakers have talent to compete in the conference but I still see them struggling a bit this season finishing just 3-6 overall. 

 

Key to Success: Defense.  Nekoosa gave up a lot of points last year.  They gave up 29 or more points in 6/9 games last year.  The offense should be there for them if the defense can step up they should be much better then I predict them to be.

 

 Game to watch:  Week 5 Friday September 20th at Wautoma 7pm

Nekoosa and Wautoma will once again square off on the football field.  I have both these teams struggling in the conference this season.  This game might be about who wants it more.

 

Nekoosa games on WRJC Radio: Week 3 Friday September 6th home vs Mauston 7pm 92.9FM

 

Next Preview:  Wisconsin Dells

 

 Thanks to Wissports.net for statistics and player information. 

Edwards, Terrence G. “Slo” Edwards Age 83 of Friendship

Terrence G. “Slo” Edwards, age 83, of Friendship, Wisconsin passed away Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at his home.

 

A celebration of life will be from 12:00 Noon until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Connell’s Cedar Shack in Adams, WI.

Terrence was born November 30, 1940, in Elgin, Illinois to Milton and Betsy (Mahoney) Edwards.

He married Kathleen “Mutz” Wilson “on March 18, 1977, in Kane County, Geneva, Illinois.

Slo worked 33 years for ITW Buildex in Illinois before he retired and moved to Adams County. He loved the Cubs & Bears, playing the machines at bars, and spending time with Mutz. He had a great sense of humor and loved to socialize.

Slo was preceded in death by his parents Milton & Betsy; brothers Thomas “Tommy” & David, and two nephews John & Keith.

Survivors include his wife, Kathleen; daughter, Cynthia (Brad) Tafel; son, Timothy (Beth) Edwards; three grandchildren; one great-grandson; brothers, Steve (Cindy) & Craig (Sue); sister, Kim, and two sisters-in-law Roslyn & Margaret “Marg”. He is further survived by cousins and close friends.

Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.

Watson, Robert J. “Bob” Age 73 of Hillsboro

Robert J. “Bob” Watson, age 73 years, of Hillsboro, Wisconsin, passed away on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Gundersen Health Services in La Crosse.

 

He was born on August 5, 1951, the son of Bernard and Mary (Malphy) Watson in Hillsboro.  Robert graduated from the Hillsboro High School in 1969. 

 

Robert was united in marriage to Jean A. Fronk on June 12, 1982.

 

Bob worked in several different mechanic or maintenance positions, including Ken’s Mobil, Farmer’s Co-op, M & J Auto, Christmas Mountain Resort and Whitehall Specialties.

 

Bob also spent many years active in emergency services in the area.  He served as an EMT in Hillsboro from the 1970’s to 1999 and became co-director with Terry Sosinsky.  He served on the Hillsboro Fire Department for 17 years, with many of those years as Captain.  He also served on the Hillsboro City Council.

 

Survivors include his brother-in-law, William (Carol) Fronk of Kendall; sister-in-law, Diane Fronk (Jim Moore) of Tomah; nephew, Matthew (Kelly) Fronk and family; niece, Meredith (Jeremy) Tomesh and family; and nephew, Chad (Samantha) Schiefelbein and family.

 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Jean Watson on July 19, 2023; father, Bernard Watson; mother, Mary O’Connor; step father, Thomas O’Connor; and aunts and uncles.

 

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at the Picha Funeral Home in Hillsboro, with Thomas Hotek officiating.  Burial will be in the Mount Vernon Cemetery in Hillsboro.  A time of visitation will be at the Picha Funeral Home in Hillsboro on Saturday, August 17th from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

 

Bloomer, Michael G Age 65 of Necedah

Michael G. Bloomer Jr., known affectionately to friends and family as Mike, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2024, due to complications from cardiac stenosis. Born on January 29, 1959, in Fairfax, VA, Mike’s life journey of 65 years was marked by an unwavering dedication to his loved ones, a passion for the outdoors, and an earnest commitment to his community in Necedah, WI, where he spent his final moments surrounded by the warmth of family.

 

Mike’s early years in Virginia set the stage for a life rich in love and adventure. His youthful spirit was a beacon that continued to shine brightly as he ventured into the world, eventually laying roots in Wisconsin. It was there that he met and married the love of his life, Julie L. Bloomer, and together they built a family founded on the principles of kindness, laughter, and resilience. His role as a father to Amanda Bloomer, Joseph (Katie) Bloomer, and Andrea Smith, his step-daughter, was one he cherished deeply, and his love was a guiding force in their lives.

 

He was the proud brother to Charlie (Vicky) Bloomer, Lorrie (Dave) Fox, Tim (Linda) Bloomer, Shan (Jessica) Bloomer, and Shawn Bloomer, all of whom shared countless memories filled with joy and camaraderie. He is further survived by brothers-in-law Jim (Connie) Peasley, Louie (Cindy) Peasley, Steve (Sue) Peasley, Sisters-in-law Debbie Peasley and Karen Neal, Linda (Jeff) Vavrin, Sue (Ray) Pruitt and Kathi (Hal) Rasmussen.  Mike was also a doting grandfather, his heart brimming with pride for Jayden, Charolette, Emma Bloomer, and Greyson Kacmar. His legacy as a family man will be carried on through the stories and values he instilled in each of them. He is further survived by many loving nieces and nephews, who will continue to honor his memory by living the lessons he taught through his own example of integrity and strength.

 

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Michael G. Bloomer Sr. and Barbara J. Bloomer, and his brothers Danny and Larry Bloomer, Mother and Father-in-law Louis (Mary) Peasley, and brothers-in-law Dave Peasley, Rich Peasley and Joseph Peasley.

 

An avid outdoorsman, Mike found solace and joy in nature. Hunting, fishing, and UTV riding were not just hobbies but a testament to his appreciation for life’s simple pleasures and the beauty of the wilderness.  In his younger years he was an avid Eagle Scout.  His reverence for the natural world was infectious, and he was always ready to share a story or two about his latest adventure in the great outdoors.

 

Mike’s commitment to service was evident through his active involvement with the Necedah Lions Club. His contributions to the club were numerous, and his efforts helped foster a sense of unity and support within the community. His generous spirit and willingness to lend a hand were hallmarks of his character, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he touched.

As we bid farewell to Mike, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy. His laughter, which echoed through the halls of every gathering, will resonate with us forever. Mike’s unwavering love for his family, his passion for the outdoors, and his dedication to his community will continue to inspire those who knew him. His was a life that exemplified the virtues of compassion, loyalty, and friendship.

 

A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Mike Bloomer Jr. will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know him. We take comfort in knowing that he is at peace, and we hold tight to the memories that will forever be a source of strength and solace.

 

As we say goodbye to a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, let us honor Mike’s memory by emulating his kindness, his laughter, and his zest for life. In every ripple of the lakes he loved, in every rustle of the leaves during a quiet hunt, and in every act of service to our neighbors, his legacy will endure. Rest in peace, Mike; your journey here has ended, but your story continues within us.

 

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 5:00 P.M. at the Hare Funeral Home (217 W. Pearl St) in New Lisbon.  Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation at the Hare Funeral Home on Thursday from 3:00 P.M. until the time of service. Chaplin Michael Amberg presiding. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com

 

HS Football Preview –2024 Adams-Friendship Green Devils

Adams-Friendship Green Devils

 

2023 Record: 7-4 (6-1 South Central Conference)

 

Head Coach: Nick Stormoen

 

Mike’s 2024 Projected Record 3-6 (2-5 South Central Conference)

 

 

Players to Watch: QB/DB Eli Cole RB/LB Robert Irey RB/LB Cody Henricksen WR/DB Tyler Erickson WR/DB Robert Weaver RB/LB Crispin Landon  

 

Team Preview: The Green Devils are the defending South Central Conference champions but things will be more difficult this season.  The conference is better and QB Lincoln Smith, RB Johnny Drankiewicz, Linemen Jake Long are all gone.  Those 3 were huge factors in their conference title run.  There is some valuable pieces to build around for the Green Devils. Robert Irey (60tackles) led the team in tackles a season ago is back along with last years leading sacker Robert Weaver (5sacks).  Irey should also see a majority of the carries on the offensive side of the ball behind Drankiewicz he ran the ball 57 times for 423 yards and 3 touchdowns last year.  Tyler Erickson is also back at WR for the Green Devils Erickson had 5 receiving touchdowns last year.  Replacing the big 3 won’t be easy for Adams-Friendship and I see them taking a step back this season and failing to make the post season.      

 

Key to Success: QB play! Adams-Friendship must develop a new quarterback after the graduation departure of Lincoln Smith.  Eli Cole might get that opportunity; he completed 2-4 passes for 10yards and an interception last season.  The quarterback decision might determine the success or lack thereof for this team.   

 

 Game to watch:  Week 6 Friday September 27th at Mauston 7pm

This matchup last year decided the South Central Conference Championship.  This game might not decide the championship but it’s still a big game between two rivals.   

 

Green Devils games on WRJC Radio: Week 6 Friday September 27th at Mauston 7pm 92.9FM

 

Next Preview:  Nekoosa

 

 Thanks to Wissports.net for statistics and player information. 

Ryan, Erika “Ricky” Age 94 of Fort Atkinson

Erika “Ricky” Ryan, age 94, of Fort Atkinson, formerly of Friendship, WI passed away Monday, August 5, 2024, at Wellington Meadows in Fort Atkinson.

Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at Roseberry’s Funeral Home in Friendship. Father David Bruener will officiate. Interment will be at the Quincy Cemetery. Visitation will be 12:00 noon until the time of service on Saturday at Roseberry’s Funeral Home.

Erika was born June 17, 1930, in Amberg, Germany to Johan and Maria (Balk) Hofmann.  She graduated High School in Amberg, Germany and then attended Arthur Murray Dance School.

Erika married Alfred V. Ryan on June 27, 1987, in Friendship.

She was a dance instructor for Arthur Murray Dance School and Manager of Dunkin Jewelers for many years.

Erika enjoyed cooking, baking, reading books, and loved feeding, listening to and watching birds. She was a Master Gardener and was passionate about flower gardening.

Erika was preceded in death by her parents Johan & Maria Hofmann; brother Heinz Hofmann; husband Alfred Ryan; stepson Kean Ryan (Noreen); mother-in-law Cecilia Koral; brother-in-law Thomas Ryan, and brother-in-law Philip Ryan Sr. (Sharon)

Survivors include her daughter Kristan Hoffman; stepdaughters Meghan Brown (Dan), and Killeen Ryan; grandchildren Keith Ryan, Jacob Brown, and Emily Brown.

Roseberry’s Funeral Home is assisting the family. Visit www.roseberrys.com for online condolences and further information.

HS Football Preview –2024 Wautoma Hornets

Wautoma Hornets

 

2023 Record: 3-7 (2-5 South Central Conference)

 

Head Coach: Andy Krueger

 

Mike’s 2024 Projected Record 1-8 (0-7 South Central Conference)

 

 

Players to Watch: RB/LB Skyler Royston OL/DL Michael Roeske QB/DB Peyton Pica

 

Team Preview: Wautoma might have the biggest name and biggest player in the conference in 6’8 linemen and Badger recruit Michael Roeske outside of that Wautoma does not return a whole lot from a team that finished just 3-8.  Skyler Royston is back to lead the ground game.  Royston racked up 756yards and 6 touchdowns on 168 carries last year.  Peyton Pica might play the quarterback position after the graduation of Carson Armstrong. Roeske led the team in sacks with a pair last year.  Wautoma was once a powerhouse in the conference but now there in the thick of hard times and I see that continuing all the way to a winless conference season this year.      

 

Key to Success: Roeske playing big.  The Wisconsin Badgers see something in Roeske as did other major college football programs.  If Roeske can make big plays on defense and be a road grader on the o-line Skyler Royston might have some open daylight to keep Wautoma in games and give them a chance to win.   

 

 Game to watch:  Week 1 Friday August 23rd at Westfield 7pm

 

A former conference matchup turned into a non-conference matchup as Wautoma will try to start its season with a victory. 

 

 

Wautoma Hornet games on WRJC Radio: Week 4 Friday September 13th at Mauston 7pm 92.9FM

 

Next Preview:  Adams-Friendship

 

 Thanks to Wissports.net for statistics and player information. 

HS Football Preview –2024 Waupun Warriors

 Waupun Warriors

 

2023 Record: 2-8 (1-6 East Central Conference)

 

Head Coach: Adrian Harmsen

 

Mike’s 2024 Projected Record 3-6 (3-4 South Central Conference)

 

 

Players to Watch: QB/DL/LB Chase Beahm RB/LB Haiden Rieder WR/DB Braydin Torres WR/DB Logan Prell OL/DL Landen Degroff RB/DB Kanye Bessman

 

Team Preview: Waupun is another team that should be helped out by playing in the new conference.  Waupun was young last season and struggled to a 2-8 record but return most of their playmakers.  Chase Beahm threw for over 1500 yards and 14tds but also tossed 15interceptions.  He also has his top two targets back in Brayden Torres (35-518 7tds) & Logan Prall (19-374 4tds).  Haiden Reider is also back, Reider led the team in rushing last year with 456yards.  Landen Degroff led the team in sacks with 3 last year is back to help lead the defense.  I have Waupun going 3-6 but have a feeling they might do better than that prediction.             

 

Key to Success: Cutting down the interceptions.  Beahm threw for a lot of yards and touchdowns a season ago if he can cut down on the interception Waupun should be able to improve tremendously on last years 2 wins.   

 

 Game to watch:  Week 9 Friday October 18th home versus Mauston 7pm  

 

This game could determine who makes the playoffs and who misses the playoffs.

 

 

Waupun Warrior games on WRJC Radio: Week 9 Friday October 18th home vs Mauston 7pm

 

Next Preview:  Wautoma   

 

 Thanks to Wissports.net for statistics and player information. 

HS Football Preview –2024 Ripon Tigers  

Ripon Tigers

 

2023 Record: 0-9 (0-7 East Central Conference)

 

Head Coach: Andrew Selgrad

 

Mike’s 2024 Projected Record 4-5 (2-5 South Central Conference)

 

 

Players to Watch: QB/LB Parker Webb RB/DB Parker Stellmacher RB/LB Jordan Perkins WR/DB Declan Dudzinski  

 

Team Preview: Everything that could go wrong did go wrong a season ago for the Ripon Tigers.  They had a coaching change a week into practices and everything went down from there.  There is plenty of optimism for this team however as they turn to State Championship head coach Andrew Selgrad.  Selgrad comes over from Columbus where he led the Cardinals to a State Championship.  Most of last year’s team returns as well led by quarterback Parker Webb who threw for 450 yards and 5 touchdowns last year.  Webb will have his favorite target Declan Dudzinski (11-239 2tds) to throw to.  The running game was a struggle for the Tigers last year but they welcome back its top two runners Parker Stellmacher and Jordan Perkins from last season.        

 

 Key to Success: Adjusting to Selgrad.  Selgrad has a great pedigree coming in.  It will take some time for the team to learn Selgrads system and adjusting to his coaching style but this team has a chance to succeed sooner than later with him at the helm. 

 

 Game to watch:  Week 3 Friday September 6th home vs Adams-Friendship 7pm

 

South Central newcomer Ripon vs last year’s South Central Conference champion Green Devils will be an interesting matchup and I see Ripon pulling off an upset. 

 

 

Ripon Tiger games on WRJC Radio: Week 7 Friday October 4th home vs Mauston 7pm

 

Next Preview:  Waupun & Wautoma   

 

 Thanks to Wissports.net for statistics and player information. 

HS Football Preview –2024 Berlin Indians

  

Berlin Indians

 

2023 Record: 7-3 (5-2 East Central Conference)

 

Head Coach: Joe Stellmacher

 

Mike’s 2024 Projected Record 8-1 (7-0 South Central Conference)

 

 

Players to Watch: RB/DB Carter Hess OL/DL/RB Jakob Martin RB/LB Luke Budde TE/LB Aaron Bartol TE/DE Hayden Redington RB/LB Max Sonnentag

 

Team Preview: Led by former Wisconsin Badger defensive back Joe Stellmacher the Berlin Indians bring a proud tradition into the South Central Conference.  They finished 3rd a season ago in a very tough East Central Conference.  Berlin does lose a good amount from that team including their quarterback and top running back.  They do welcome back Carter Hess who ran for 663 yards and 7 touchdowns last year.  Jacob Martin who served time as both an offensive linemen and running back also returns after scoring 7 touchdowns last year.  6’4 TE Aaron Bartol is also back after leading the team in receiving (29-446 6tds) last year.  Berlin also has a lot of size in the trenches.  Martin led the team in sacks with 4 last year is back to anchor a good defense.  Luke Budde is the top returning tackler (57tackles) from last year for the Indians. Moving into a new conference I believe will help Berlin in a big way and I see them winning the SCC in their inaugural year.     

 

 Key to Success: Replacing the QB.  Parker Hess threw for nearly 1,000 yards a season ago has departed due to graduation.  Kannon Belter is the only other player listed at QB from last year.  They have size and a good running back in Carter Hess if they can find a quarterback to player stellar for Stellmacher this team could be incredibly dangerous this season.    

 

 Game to watch:  Week 2 Friday August 30th at Kiel  

 

This is a bigtime non-conference matchup between two playoff teams from last season. 

 

 

Berlin Indian games on WRJC Radio: Week 5 Friday September 20th home vs Mauston 7pm

 

Next Preview:  SCC Newcomer Ripon     

 

 Thanks to Wissports.net for statistics and player information. 

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