The 2025 high school football season in the Oshkosh and Fond du Lac region is set to begin on Thursday, August 20, marking the start of competition across the South Central, Flyway and Fox Valley Association conferences.
Building New Identities
Oshkosh North returns six starters from a year ago, focusing on reshaping its identity with a strong offensive and defensive line. Meanwhile, Oshkosh West, under first‑year coach Nathan Wara, leans on an upperclassman‑led group that embraces a team‑first mentality.
Experience and Tradition
Berlin High School, coached by Joe Stellmacher, boasts an 11‑year playoff streak and aims to replace its recent senior class. Campbellsport’s Todd Wondra returns multiple starters, emphasizing depth and coachability.
Replacing a Generation
Fond du Lac High School will enter its 113th season, having graduated 32 seniors and needing to fill 16 starting spots. Laconia, led by Chris Morgan, must replace key playmakers from last year’s top performers, while Lomira’s Bryan Gregory brings back eight starters, including quarterback and top rushers.
Championship Pedigree
Mayville, the defending Division 5 champions, returns standouts like Joe Promersberger and Tanner Schneider. St. Mary’s Springs, under Zach Wilderman, emphasizes player‑driven leadership and faces a tough early schedule.
Team Unity and Faith
Valley Christian, coached by Ben Birr, fields 12 seniors and 12 returning starters, known for its cohesive, faith‑based culture. Waupun’s Adrian Harmsen, fresh off back‑to‑back playoff appearances, relies on returning key player Owen Kloosterboer.
Young Guns and New Coaches
North Fond du Lac’s Taylan Ybarra works with a young but experienced roster, while Oakfield’s Corey Rickert begins his 14th year of 8‑player football with only two returning starters. Winnebago Lutheran’s Kevin Loehr returns five offensive and three defensive starters after a senior exodus.
Looking Ahead
Winneconne, guided by Nate Ryf and Ryan Krings, returns 24 starters after losing 18 seniors from the 2025 Division 4 championship team. Across the board, coaches stress preparation, depth and the importance of early‑season matchups as the region braces for a competitive year.