The 2026 season of the Central Wisconsin Conference 8-man football league is poised to deliver another round of hard‑fought battles, with each program bringing a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers to the gridiron.
Defending Champions Eye Another Perfect Run
Marion/Tigerton entered the 2025 campaign as the team to beat, posting a flawless 7‑0 league record and clinching the CWC‑8 title. Heading into 2026, the squad is again projected to finish first, riding the momentum of a dominant previous season and the continued development of its standout talent.
Rosholt, which opted out of the 2025 schedule after forfeiting its 11‑player roster, returns with a refreshed lineup that includes junior quarterback Dylan DeLaet. DeLaet’s 1,515 passing yards and 22 touchdowns from last year have positioned him as one of the most productive signal‑callers in the conference.
Tri‑County, Wild Rose and Almond‑Bancroft round out the field, each looking to close the gap on the traditional powerhouses. Wild Rose’s lone on‑field victory in 2025 came against Port Edwards, a 42‑20 win that highlighted the team’s potential when clicking on both sides of the ball.
Key Players to Watch
Among the standout athletes, Braylon Mielke of Marion/Tigerton has been labeled the top 8‑player prospect heading into the new season, while Gage Beggs from Tri‑County earned Second Team All‑Conference honors on both offense and defense a year ago. Tucker Stiles of Almond‑Bancroft was recognized as First Team All‑Conference on offense and Second Team on defense, underscoring his dual‑role impact.
Landon Anderson from Wild Rose added a First Team All‑Conference nod after amassing 38 receptions for 534 yards and seven touchdowns, and Braxton Landwehr, also listed among the conference’s notable names, is expected to contribute significantly on both sides of the ball.
The 2025 season also saw Menominee Nation forfeit its final five games, a factor that could reshape the competitive balance as the conference moves forward. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Football Coaches Association continues to provide guidance and support for programs across the state.