The high school football landscape in Manitowoc and Sheboygan counties is buzzing with anticipation as four programs — New Holstein, Plymouth, Manitowoc Lutheran and Cedar Grove‑Belgium — look to translate talent into winning records this fall.
New Holstein enters the season with a core that returns nearly intact, headlined by standout athletes such as Ely Kohlman, Conner Schaefer and James Conrad. Schaefer’s 1,300‑yard rushing campaign and nine touchdowns, coupled with Conrad’s nearly 600 yards and five scores, give the team a potent ground game. Defensive standout Griffin Abler adds 78 tackles, including 60 solo, and 16 tackles for loss, underscoring a balanced attack.
Key Players to Watch
Among the names that will define the season, Ely Kohlman’s explosiveness, Conner Schaefer’s durability, Griffin Knight’s all‑purpose impact and Josiah Martin’s dual‑role versatility stand out as focal points for their respective squads.
Plymouth brings senior leadership in Augie Eigenberger, who has already thrown for close to 1,000 yards and posted a passer rating of 185.7 despite missing parts of the schedule due to injury. Alongside him, Cole Kuhn earned East Central Conference defensive player of the year honors with 67 tackles, 20 for loss and 3.5 sacks. The Plymouth squad will compete in the Glacier Trails Conference, where a potential showdown with defending Division 3 state champions Grafton could decide the league crown.
Manitowoc Lutheran and Cedar Grove‑Belgium are both positioned as top contenders in the Big East after losing key skill‑position players from a year ago. Cedar Grove‑Belgium’s Griffin Knight stands out as a versatile weapon, contributing as a receiver, defensive back and return specialist. Both teams are reloading with depth; Manitowoc Lutheran returns three offensive linemen, while Cedar Grove‑Belgium brings back nine defensive starters.
Junior quarterback Aaden Krause will take the helm for Manitowoc Lutheran, though he will miss the opening week because of a hand injury. Senior two‑way player Josiah Martin is expected to bolster the lineup at both running back and linebacker. The first major test arrives in Week 3 when the Big East rivals meet, a matchup that could ultimately determine the conference champion.