Let's dive into the fascinating world of Wisconsin's high school football legends and the impact they've had on the state's sports culture. This is a topic that truly gets my analytical juices flowing, as it's not just about the game, but the stories and legacies these athletes leave behind.
The Legacy of Wisconsin's Football Stars
Wisconsin, like many states, has a rich history with football, and it's not just about the professional teams. The passion for the sport trickles down from the iconic Lambeau Field in Green Bay to the high school fields across the state. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, it's only fitting to recognize the athletes who shaped communities and left an indelible mark on Wisconsin's sports landscape.
Defining Greatness: A Complex Task
Determining the greatest high school football players in Wisconsin history is no easy feat. Some became local legends on the field but never reached the same heights in college or the pros. Others bloomed late, their high school days only hinting at their future greatness. How do we compare and measure these unique journeys?
Our criteria go beyond championships and statistics. We're looking for trailblazers whose influence extends far and wide, whose stories reflect a lasting impact on the state. It's an imperfect process, but one that aims to celebrate the athletes who not only excelled on the field but also inspired and shaped their communities.
The Legends Unveiled
Alan Ameche, Kenosha (1951)
A three-year varsity player, Ameche truly shone in his final two seasons, earning all-state honors. His senior year saw him rush for 821 yards and 18 touchdowns, leading the 1950 Kenosha team, considered one of the state's finest. Ameche's prowess continued at Wisconsin, where he won the 1954 Heisman Trophy, and he was voted the all-time top player by the Milwaukee Journal in 1993. But his talents weren't limited to football; he was also a track standout, winning a state title in the shot put.
Elroy Hirsch, Wausau (1941)
'Crazylegs' Hirsch was a true triple-threat athlete, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball. His gridiron skills earned him a spot on the Journal's Team of the Century in 1993. Hirsch's journey took him from Wausau to the University of Wisconsin, then to Michigan, and eventually to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But his impact didn't stop there; he became the GM of the Los Angeles Rams and later returned to Wisconsin as the Badgers' athletic director.
Mike Webster, Rhinelander (1970)
Webster embodies the archetypal Wisconsin football player - the strong farm boy who goes on to block for the University of Wisconsin. Born on a potato farm, he didn't start playing football until his junior year but went on to become the best center in the Big Ten at Wisconsin. His career in Pittsburgh saw him win four Super Bowls, earn All-Decade honors, and a spot in the Hall of Fame. Webster's untimely death brought attention to the dangers of concussions and the brain disease CTE.
Robert 'Rocky' Bleier, Appleton Xavier (1964)
Bleier was a two-time all-state selection who didn't lose a football game in his final three seasons. He went on to win four Super Bowls with the Pittsburgh Steelers and was a first-team running back on the Journal's Team of the Century. His journey was interrupted by a tour of duty in Vietnam, where he was wounded and received military honors. Despite the setback, Bleier returned to the NFL and continued his winning streak.
Pat Richter, Madison East (1959)
Richter was a high school All-American in football and basketball and a standout baseball player. He remains Wisconsin's only nine-time letterman since 1927. After his professional football career, Richter earned a law degree, ventured into business, and then became the athletic director at Wisconsin, hiring Barry Alvarez and helping transform UW into a Big Ten powerhouse.
J.J. Watt, Pewaukee (2007)
Watt's journey is a testament to the Wisconsin football tradition of walk-ons becoming stars. He transferred to Wisconsin, redshirted, and even delivered pizzas to pay his tuition. He flipped to defensive end, becoming an All-American and a first-round draft pick. Watt's impact extends beyond the field; he was the Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2017 for his Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.
Joe Thomas, Brookfield Central (2003)
Thomas was a force on both sides of the ball in high school, eventually making his mark as an offensive lineman. He won the Outland Trophy at Wisconsin, became a perennial Pro Bowler with the Cleveland Browns, and is now a Hall of Famer. His high school track and field and basketball achievements are also notable, and he holds the NFL record for consecutive snaps played.
Jim Leonhard, Flambeau (2001)
Leonhard's story is a classic Wisconsin tale. An undersized player from tiny Tony, Wisconsin, he walked on at UW and became an All-American safety. He set conference records for punt-return yardage and had a successful NFL career. Leonhard returned to coach at UW and then moved to the NFL as the defensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills.
Michael Bennett, Milwaukee Tech (1998)
Bennett was a track star in high school, setting state meet records in the 100 and 200-meter dashes. He was also an all-state football player, rushing for over 4,200 yards and making 20 interceptions. He went on to play football at Wisconsin and in the NFL, where he rushed for over 1,600 yards in his rookie season.
Harry 'Bud' Grant, Superior (1945)
Grant's athletic career is nothing short of extraordinary. He played football, basketball, and baseball in high school and at the University of Minnesota, earning nine letters. He won an NBA championship with the Minneapolis Lakers and then switched to football, playing for the Philadelphia Eagles and in Canada. He became a successful coach, leading the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to four Grey Cups and the Minnesota Vikings to four Super Bowl appearances.
A Legacy of Impact
These athletes have left an indelible mark on Wisconsin's sports history. Their stories, journeys, and impact extend far beyond the football field, shaping communities and inspiring generations. It's a testament to the power of sport and the enduring legacy of these high school football stars.
Who Else Deserves Recognition?
There are many more athletes who could be on this list, and it's a discussion that highlights the rich talent pool Wisconsin has produced. From Jerry Tagge to Melvin Gordon, each athlete has a unique story that contributes to the state's sports heritage.
