The Kimberly High School football program enters the new season with a preseason ranking of No. 3, a testament to the confidence placed in a squad that will field only seven starters.
Coach Chad Michalkiewicz has made it clear that the team's focus extends beyond the scoreboard; he wants each player to discover a personal purpose and develop mental resilience that will serve them on and off the field.
Among the returning veterans, senior Maddux Hermus stands out as a versatile athlete who earned all‑FVA honors at receiver, and was first‑team all‑conference as a kicker and punter last year. Junior quarterback Rylan Welch will take the snaps under center, with Michalkiewicz expressing confidence in his ability to elevate the offense.
The Papermakers' schedule promises tough tests, beginning with a season opener against Sussex Hamilton, a team that eliminated them from the playoffs last year, followed by a clash with defending Division 1 state runner‑up Bay Port.
Despite the challenging slate, the program's recent history of dominance — 150‑13 record since 2013 and a 6‑1 finish in the Fox Valley Association last season — provides a foundation of belief that the team can remain a serious contender.
Cultivating Intentional Growth
Michalkiewicz's approach centers on intentional player development, ensuring that every athlete understands their role and the impact they have on the collective success of the team.
The coaching staff emphasizes leadership workshops, mental‑skill drills, and purposeful practice sessions designed to forge a culture where growth is measured by contribution, not merely by minutes played.
As the Papermakers prepare to step onto the field, the blend of experienced leadership, purposeful preparation, and a resilient mindset positions them to meet the heightened competition within the Fox Valley Association and to pursue a state title.