Wittenberg-Birnamwood football preview

Team: Wittenberg-Birnamwood Chargers

Conference: Central Wisconsin Conference-Large Division

2021 conference result: second place with 6-1 record

2021 tournament results: advanced to level four (state semifinals)

Returning starters/varsity players (positions): Seniors: David Gauderman (RB, LB), Chris Crews (RB, LB), Max Fraaza (OL, DL). Juniors: Marshall Fraaza (RB, LB), Charlie Nowinsky (OL, DL).

New athletes who could make an impact this season (positions): Seniors: Eddy Sanchez (WR, DB), Dylan Resch (WR, DB). Juniors: Nathan Waupekenay (QB), Casey Kielman (WR/DB), Connor Groshek (LB), Braeden Groshek (LB). Sophomore: Jett Rogowski (WR, DB). Freshmen: Alberto Sanchez (OL, DL), Bryson Schmid (DB).

Returning all-conference players: Second team: David Gauderman, Max Fraaza, Charlie Nowinsky.

Coach’s comment on upcoming season: “We lost a lot of seniors from last year’s team, but we had a lot of underclassmen get valuable playing time and experience,” said first-year Witt-Birn coach Jason Rieck. “Everyone is excited to build off of last year’s success. Players worked hard this offseason, and we have great leadership and team chemistry this year.”