The 2026 high school football season in Manitowoc and Sheboygan counties is set to begin on August 20, marking the start of a packed schedule that will see teams from both communities face off across multiple weeks.
Opening night will feature a slate of marquee contests, including Mishicot hosting Oconto at 7 p.m., De Pere traveling to Manitowoc Lincoln at the same hour, and Sheboygan South welcoming Green Bay Southwest. The following day, Sheboygan North will host Port Washington, while Kiel takes on Lake Country Lutheran, also at 7 p.m.
Key Matchups and Notable Absences
Manitowoc Lutheran will open its campaign against Roncalli on Thursday, August 20, at 7 p.m., rounding out a busy first day of play that showcases the depth of talent across the region.
A notable absence will be felt in Week 2, when Valders will not appear on the schedule. The team’s game was inadvertently double‑booked by another program, leaving a gap that coaches say could affect early momentum.
Later in the season, Manitowoc Lincoln is slated to travel to Oshkosh North on September 17, while Sheboygan North will meet Oshkosh North again on October 2, both games slated for 7 p.m. These matchups are expected to be pivotal in determining conference standings.
With a dense calendar of games and several early rivalries, coaches and players are gearing up for a competitive season that promises plenty of excitement for fans across the two counties.