The Bay Port Pirates are once again perched at the center of Wisconsin high school football conversation, chasing a third consecutive appearance in the state title game this fall.
A large chunk of the squad that compiled a 23‑5 record over the past two seasons returns intact, highlighted by the top three senior wide receivers Jackson Otradovec, Ethan Orlando and Owen Sartorelli, who together logged 77 catches for 1,446 yards and 13 touchdowns last year.
On the other side of the ball, the defense that helped limit opponents by an average of 23 points per game remains among the most formidable in recent memory, anchored by senior defensive back Rex Helms, who tied the program’s single‑season interception record with eight picks, and complemented by standouts such as Jordy Walker and Asher Fontaine.
Special teams, however, proved to be the Achilles’ heel in the 2025 championship, where a failed onside kick and a missed field goal in the closing seconds swung momentum toward Hartland Arrowhead.
A Decision That Still Echoes
Coach Steven Jorgensen’s choice to go for a win rather than a safe field goal in the final moments of that game sparked debate, but the veteran mentor has stood by the call, saying the experience has become a driving force for the current roster.
The loss also left a void left by graduates such as former quarterback Matt Stevens and linebacker Brock Gauthier, both now at NCAA Division II programs, while rising juniors Braydon Maney and Bray Babich are being counted on to fill the quarterback and secondary roles.
Looking Forward
With a 2026 graduating class that included playmakers like running back‑defensive back Brady Moon and offensive lineman Aiden Dirksen, the Pirates are blending seasoned seniors with fresh talent, aiming to turn the near‑miss into a championship narrative.
The coaching staff remains focused on shoring up special teams, hoping that improved reliability will translate into the crucial moments that defined the previous season.