A Revitalized Offense
The Menasha Bluejays enter the 2025 season with a potent combination of experience and talent, highlighted by quarterback Paul Schmolinske and running back Keonte Thigpen, who were both recognized on the all‑FRCC‑South first team a year ago.
Thigpen, a first‑team all‑conference back, amassed 824 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns on 66 carries, averaging 12.5 yards per carry, while Schmolinske, a second‑team all‑conference quarterback, threw for 1,204 yards and 12 scores while adding 736 rushing yards and 12 more touchdowns.
Senior running back Logan Bivens, who missed much of the previous campaign with an injury, is fully healthy and expected to play a pivotal role in the backfield, giving the offense depth and versatility.
Coach Jeramie Korth emphasizes that the team’s chemistry has improved dramatically, noting that the blend of returning all‑conference players and emerging contributors creates a foundation for a more explosive attack.
Home Field Revival
After a tornado damaged their usual venue, the Bluejays will host many of their home games at Lawrence University’s Banta Bowl, a change that has sparked excitement among players and the local community.
The regular season opener is scheduled for August 20 against Plymouth, a non‑conference matchup that will serve as an early test of the team’s revamped lineup.
Defensively, linebacker Keonte Thigpen and cornerback Shamir Senyange, both all‑conference selections, anchor a unit that aims to complement the offense’s momentum.
With a target of 34 points per game, the Bluejays hope to improve on their third‑place finish in the Fox River Classic Conference‑South and contend for a deeper playoff run.