A New Era for the Black Hawks
The Grafton Black Hawks capped a historic 2025 season by winning the WIAA Division 3 state title, a 17‑15 thriller over Reedsburg that ended an undefeated campaign and marked the first championship in more than four decades.
As the team prepares for 2026, the spotlight falls on junior quarterback Hunter Klippel, who steps into the starting role after the departure of Nicholas Schiller and brings a dual‑threat skill set that mirrors the explosiveness of players like Josh Allen.
Returning running back Jack Nelson, who scored 26 touchdowns last year, is expected to shoulder a heavy load again, but coaches are mindful of his workload after he logged 91 carries in playoff games and 60 percent of the team's rushing attempts.
The roster also welcomes new pieces, including transfer wide receiver Malik Cane and sophomore tight end Hank Doyle, who arrives with six college offers and aims to offset the loss of leading receivers from the previous season.
Coach Jim Norris emphasizes that the 2026 squad blends youthful energy with the experience of a program that has earned nine straight playoff berths, positioning the Black Hawks to defend their title while navigating a move to the Glacier Trails Conference.
The early schedule features road tests in Mount Horeb, Slinger, West Bend East and Nicolet, giving the team a chance to fine‑tune an offense that must balance explosiveness with consistency and reduce the strain on Nelson.