Shows
WSAW Hilight Zone PodcastOuimettes United: Minocqua's Julianna and Kristina OuimetteDon't stress, the Ouimette sisters of Minocqua will still play Division 1 basketball together. It'll just be in a different city than originally planned.
Julianna is transferring from Lehigh after her freshman season to play for UW-Green Bay and naturally, her sister Kristina followed her commitment there.
Noah Manderfeld talks with the pair about the decision and the benefits Green Bay offers than has them very excited to be close to home.
2024-05-1612 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastJumping for 3: Antigo's MacKenzie WissbroeckerFor months, Antigo long jumper MacKenzie Wissbroecker has strived for the 19-foot long jump. Last Friday, she achieved that in front of the very person who initially held the school record, Cherie Dillahunt.
There's a lot to unpack with the senior who is going for a three-peat in the long jump at state in Division 2.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Wissbroecker about the moment she set her new PR, the potential three-peat and her future goals at Winona State next season.
2024-05-0823 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastThe Future is Bright: Chequamegon SoftballSeven freshman, five sophomores, three juniors and one senior is the roster construction of Chequamegon softball. There's a lot of young talent for a Fighting Eagles squad on the rise.
Sports Director Noah Manderfeld speaks with Head Coach Paige Herbst and sophomore Angelina BeBeau about the youth movement up north, and how the unique roster construction is pushing players to grow even faster.
2024-05-0120 minWSAW Hilight Zone Podcast33 Years is a Long Time: Iola-Scandinavia's Tom AndersonFew people spend 33 years at one job. But Tom Anderson isn't most people. He's entering year 33 at Iola-Scandinavia as their head softball coach and he's loving every minute of it.
He's had a lot of success in that time, as well. He's sitting at over 440 career wins and just won his first state title last season.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with Anderson about his career and his passion for the game of softball— even if he didn't know the game when he started coaching.
2024-04-1025 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastNew Man in Charge: D.C. Everest's Braden Mitchell
A new era on the gridiron is underway at D.C. Everest with offensive assistant Braden Mitchell being promoted to Head Coach.
NewsChannel 7's Nolan Bulmahn dives into how the combo of football and family fuels Mitchell to strive for success as the Evergreen's sixth coach in program history.
2024-04-0809 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastD5 at State: Columbus Catholic and Almond-Bancroft Boys BasketballColumbus Catholic and Almond-Bancroft boys basketball are the two central Wisconsin teams who will be playing at state in Division 5 and they are the top two seeds. However, the programs are quite different.
Columbus is making their third trip to state since 2017 and has nine seniors on their team, while Almond-Bancroft has just two seniors and is making their first trip to state in school history.
In this episode, Noah Manderfeld speaks with Emmitt Konieczny, Blake Jacobi and Head Coach Joe Konieczny of Columbus and TJ Lamb, Ayden Phillips, Shane Klismith and Head Coach Curt L...
2024-03-1425 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastAiming to be Gold Ball Worthy: Marathon Boys BasketballMarathon is a basketball town and Thursday night will be a special one for the community. The boys basketball team will be making the trip down to Madison to play Kenosha St. Joseph in the WIAA Division 4 State Semifinal game. It will be their first trip to state since 2018.
These Red Raiders remember that 2018 team fondly- the five seniors were in 6th grade at the time. In this episode, they look back on that trip and how much that influenced their desire to get back to Madison.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with seniors Tyler Underwood, Cooper...
2024-03-1321 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastRacing in NASCAR's Cup Series: Stratford's Derek KrausStratford native Derek Kraus will be racing in NASCAR's Cup Series, a dream come true. He will be sporting the No. 16 in a part-time role for six races this year for Kaulig Racing starting this weekend at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
In this episode, Kraus talks with Noah Manderfeld about his excitement for the new adventure and what this accomplishment means to him.
2024-02-2815 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastConsistent Success: Marshfield Boy's BasketballIt had taken over a century for Marshfield boy's basketball to win an outright Wisconsin Valley Conference title. Now they've done it three years in a row. It's a run of excellence that deserves a deeper look.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with Brook Hinson, Chris Pohl and head coach Chris Fischer about what's made this team successful and why playoff success could be coming their way this season.
2024-02-2119 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastThe Panthers are Back: Pittsville Girls BasketballIt's been 17 seasons since Pittsville girls basketball has had success close to this season's. They are 18-4 as they near the playoffs as a No. 2 seed, hoping to make their first state title appearance since 2004.
In this episode, Reese Grimm, Brynn Friday, Brooke Grossman and Head Coach Jason Knott discuss the special season and how things will only look up from here.
2024-02-1417 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastEnjoying the Ride: Marcus HallLast year, Marcus Hall was helping D.C. Everest boys' basketball win games in the Wisconsin Valley Conference. This year, he's part of the Green Bay men's team that has gone from worst to first in the Horizon, all with a new head coach and a boatload of new players.
NewsChannel 7's Ben Helwig visits with Hall on his first year playing D1 college basketball, the role he's playing and what makes this Phoenix team so special.
2024-02-0712 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastBuilding on Success: Crandon girls’ basketballLast year, the Crandon girls' basketball team took home a share of the Northern Lakes Conference title. That group was led by five seniors.
This year, a new group, featuring a blend of veterans and young contributors, is charting its own path to success, while relying on the lessons learned from the seniors before them.
NewsChannel 7's Ben Helwig speaks to Crandon players Alexis Shallock, Samara Kane, Lily Palubucki and Laurne Littleton about the strong start to the season and how they're making a name for themselves.
2023-12-1512 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastFamily and success: Phillips Girl’s BasketballPhillips girls basketball has won their regional in each of the last three years. There's a number of reasons, but at the core of the Loggers success is family and consistent winning.
NewsChannel 7's Noah Manderfeld speaks with Kacy Eggebrecht, Mataya Eckert and head coach Mike Eggebrecht about what makes this program special, and their desire to get over the hump and into the WIAA state tournament.
2023-12-0724 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastBack Even Stronger: Pacelli Boys BasketballPacelli Boys basketball was two wins away from state last season and that's a good thing when you see how much of their roster is returning.
They lost just two seniors from that team, and they return their two scoring leaders in Camden Schurk and Jaydon Awe. Both are sophomores.
NewsChannel 7's Noah Manderfeld speaks with those two and senior Logan Mayer about the hopes this team has of building off last season's performance.
2023-11-3013 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastVictory Lane: Gabe SommersGabe Sommers grew up racing bandoleros at State Park Speedway in Wausau. The Plover native had no idea that he'd become a tour champion. However, that's exactly what happened. On Oct. 8, Sommers won the Oktoberfest 200 at La Crosse Speedway to claim the 2023 ASA Midwest Tour title.
Ben Helwig visits with Sommers about his journey through the racing scene and how he is grateful for the ride.
2023-10-1912 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastArkansas Bound: Lakeland’s Saylor TimmermanLakeland's Saylor Timmerman is going to the SEC for softball. The junior who throws 70 milers per hour has committed to Arkansas.
Noah Manderfeld speaks to the flamethrower about her decision, and her goals for the last two seasons at Lakeland.
2023-10-1710 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastDominating the Valley: Marshfield VolleyballSeptember of 2021. That's the last time Marshfield volleyball lost a Wisconsin Valley Conference match. They've won 27 straight regular season matches and they haven't dropped a set in any of those matches.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with seniors Abby Ongna and Ashlyn Barwick along with head coach Dawn Sadowska about the streak and what it's doing for the future of the program.
2023-10-0514 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastBlending Strength and Speed: Three Lakes/Phelps FootballThrough their first four games, the Three Lakes/Phelps football team is averaging nearly 35 points per game. On defense, they've given up just 26 points all season. Those are totals emblematic of how the number two team in eight-player has won games this season, using their perfect blend of strength and speed.
Ben Helwig visits with Three Lakes/Phelps head coach Tyler Maney, quarterback Jared Kaufman, running back LJ Terlizzi and wide receiver Tyler Janikowski on how this team is a long-time coming and why this group still has plenty more to accomplish.
2023-09-2213 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastThe Brandt Family Affair: Wausau’s Andy and Brian Brandt Jr.On Saturday, Sept. 16, Andy's Madison Capitols will host the Green Bay Gamblers at Marathon Park in the first-ever USHL game in Wausau. It will also mark a family reunion for the Brandt family.
Andy and Brian Brandt Jr. both grew up in Wausau and played for Wausau West. Once each of their playing careers were over, they became coaches. Andy is now the head coach and general manager for the USHL's Madison Capitols, and Brian is the head coach for Wausau West boys hockey. He is also a part-owner for the Wausau Cyclones.
Noah Manderfeld...
2023-09-1414 minWSAW Hilight Zone Podcast1,440 Days: Wausau East FootballIt's been quite the couple of years for Wausau East football. The Lumberjacks played just two games in 2020. In 2021, they were unable to field a varsity roster. The last two years they've been bouncing as a JV team and in 8-player.
Finally, on August 11, they returned to varsity 11-man action, topping Lakeland 23-7 in Minocqua. It was their first win in 1,440 days.
Now, the team prepares for their first installment of Wausau's greatest rivalry since that two-game 2020 season; the Log Game. The game with history all the way back to the early 1970's will be re...
2023-09-0710 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastDrafted by the Red Wings: Wausau’s Brady ClevelandWausau’s Brady Cleveland had the dream of his life come true when he was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the second round of the NHL draft. For Brady, the moment was stamp on a lifetime of hard work.
NewsChannel 7's Noah Manderfeld spoke to the Wausau native about what draft night was like and what he's doing as he gets ready for his freshman season with the University of Wisconsin.
You can find the video story of this interview at
https://www.wsaw.com/2023/07/14/whirlwind-year-cleveland-puts-hard-work-into-perspective/.
2023-07-1411 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastSuccess on the Track: Wausau’s Luke FenhausWausau native and racer Luke Fenhaus reached victory lane in just his third race in the ARCA Menards Series East, winning in Nashville on a last lap restart.
It's been a great start to the season for Fenhaus through four races of his first full-time season in the ARCA series, who's sitting in second in the standings.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with the Wausau driver about the moment he won at Nashville, and returning home to race at Wisconsin's short tracks, including State Park Speedway.
2023-06-0811 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastPersevering Through Pain: Macey KiltyIn 2020, Macey Kilty suffered a devastating shoulder injury in the 2020 Olympic Trials. Just two years later, the Stratford native would suffer the same injury while pushing for the Olympic rings once again. Through perseverance and the help of her loved ones, she's feeling better than ever, with some monster matches looming that could determine her fate for Paris 2024.
Ben Helwig visits with Kilty on her road second road to recovery and why her Wisconsin roots are always fuel for her to keep going.
2023-06-0213 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastReturning Home: SPASH’s Janel McCarvilleJanel McCarville is the next SPASH girls basketball head coach.
If you don't know the McCarville name, look no further than her 2013 WNBA Championship ring with the Minnesota Lynx. But her home is Stevens Point, and she is back to replace her former head coach Kraig Terpstra as the new Panther coach.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with McCarville about her path from Stevens Point to the pros and then back to Point as she prepares to lead the Panthers this winter.
2023-05-1014 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastFlying High: Russell GymnasticsFor over a decade, Russell Gymnastics has been a hub for young gymnasts in central Wisconsin. However, success is just one aspect of what makes this place home. Take it from three stand-out gymnasts who will be competing on the biggest of stages. Hear from Arianna Ostrum, a level ten competing at Nationals in Oklahoma, as well as Addison Brock and Abigail Berens, both level nine athletes who are competing at Westerns in Idaho. They're joined by Debbie and Dave Russell, two of their coaches and the owners of Russell Gymnastics about the road to success and the family...
2023-05-0415 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastMarathons, Psychology, and State Titles: Northland Pines’ Nora GrembanThere's so much to unpack with Northland Pines' Nora Gremban. Her mom is her coach and she has run nine marathons—something that blows Gremban's mind. She's so passionate about psychology and the brain that it supersedes her love for running. Oh, and she's won the Division 2 State title in the 800 and 1,600 meter races in each of the last two seasons. She's still a junior.
We unpack all of it in a conversation with Gremban.
2023-04-1922 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastIt’s all in the Chemistry: Mosinee SoftballThere's an expectation around Mosinee softball—win a conference title. Mosinee won 11 in a row from when they joined the Great Northern Conference in 2009-2019. They took back the crown in 2022.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with players Martina Miller and Alanna Bembenek along with head coach Kelly Remondini about the high Mosinee expectations and how their great chemistry this season might be their ticket to another conference title.
2023-04-1312 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastOptions 1A, 1B and 1C: Columbus BaseballThe Columbus Dons baseball team has three, reliable starting pitching options. The best part is—they're all juniors.
Options 1A, 1B and 1C are Emmitt Konieczny, Cy Becker and Blake Jacobi as Columbus tries to follow up their first state appearance in school history with another.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with Konieczny, Becker and head coach Jared Krasselt about the potential for this pitching staff, and how a little bit of small ball may be in the cards for the Dons this season.
2023-04-0616 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastThe Never-Ending Game: UW-Stevens Point men’s hockeyIn a game that lasted over five hours, had over two hours of gameplay, and saw 122 combined shots, the UW-Stevens Point men's hockey team pulled out an NCAA Tournament win over Augsburg in the second-longest game in D3 history.
In this episode of the Hilight Zone Podcast, Ben Helwig speaks with Pointers' goalkeeper Ryan Wagner and forward David Hill, who scored the game-winning goal in the game's fourth overtime. They discuss the physical exhaustion of playing in such a long game, the jubilation in victory, and how they're preparing for the next round of the to...
2023-03-1509 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastLike it’s 1993: Lakeland Girls BasketballLakeland girls basketball is going to state for the first time since 1993, and you could say they are excited for the trip to Green Bay.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with Julianna and Kristina Ouimette, along with Lily Fortier about the dream trip to state as two of them near the end of their high school careers.
2023-03-0817 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastNo Rebuild Needed: Laona/Wabeno Girls BasketballLaona/Wabeno girls basketball is heading to state for the first time in their history. And it comes two years after losing five seniors.
Noah Manderfeld talks with the seniors Grace Krawze and Kaylyn LaRock along with head coach Andrew Harrison about their history trip to state that includes a confident statement from Harrison, and the potential for a Griddy in Green Bay.
2023-03-0718 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastOver the Hump: Mosinee boys hockeyIt's been 15 years since Mosinee boys hockey has made the trek to Madison for state. To get there, they finally beat conference rival Lakeland in the playoffs.
Today's conversation is with senior Caden Schmirler and junior Grant Kuklinski about the accomplishment ahead of their debut on the state stage.
2023-03-0122 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastHodag History: Rhinelander Boys SwimmingTwo years after the Rhinelander girls swimming team won a state title, the boys side adds their program's first-ever banner next to it. That's a feat the Hodags don't take lightly.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with seniors Carter Gaber and Daniel Gillingham about taking the first state title in program history back to Rhinelander, and what the accomplishment means to the team and the community.
2023-02-2212 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastThe Race for Full-Time: Rhinelander native Parker RetzlaffRhinelander native Parker Retzlaff is just 19 years old, but he is already a full-time driver in NASCAR's Xfinity Series. Retzlaff will drive the No. 31 with Jordan Anderson Racing in 2023.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with the young driver ahead of his first-ever Daytona race and his first full-time season in the Xfinity Series.
2023-02-1512 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastA Senior Class to Remember: Newman Catholic Boys BasketballThe Newman Catholic boys senior athletic class has quite the laundry list of achievements at the small school. They've won back-to-back 8-player football state titles, regional titles in baseball and basketball along with a top-five finish in golf. They are also a very lively bunch.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with Mason Prey, Eli Gustafson, Conner Krach and basketball head coach Jeff Waldvogel about what makes this group special.
2023-02-0823 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastChip on the Shoulder: Wausau East Boys BasketballWe've all heard the noise—Wausau East Athletics are on the downturn. Their boys basketball team aims to reverse that notion. Their thrilling 77-69 overtime win over D.C. Everest is a start to bigger goals.
Noah Manderfeld talks with their leading scorer Jesse Napgezek, Isaac Rozwadowski and head coach Dan Garrett about their win over the Evergreens, and what it means for Wausau East Basketball now and in the future.
2023-02-0112 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastPass First, Shoot Second: Almond-Bancroft’s TJ LambAlmond-Bancroft boys basketball's TJ Lamb is a certified passer. His 8.1 assists per game are third in the state, and he is nearing the school record books in all-time assists and steals.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with TJ along with his dad and coach, Curt Lamb, about the junior's vision on the floor, and the relationship between father and son, as well as coach and player.
2023-01-2515 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastHealthy and Ready For More: Wisconsin Rapids native Vince BiegelIt's been an up and down few years for Wisconsin Rapids native Vince Biegel. The NFL linebacker had a breakout season with the Miami Dolphins in 2019, then tore his Achilles before 2020 before injuring his calf in the 2021 training camp.
Now he's with the Baltimore Ravens with a clean bill of health, and he's ready to get back to work.
Noah Manderfeld talks to Biegel about his opportunity ahead in Baltimore and how he keeps a positive mindset despite the roadblocks.
2022-07-2014 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastState Soccer Bound: Lakeland girls’ soccerLakeland girls' soccer is returning to state for the first time since 2004 and the second time ever. It comes in the same year they won their conference for the first time in 11 years. It's a big deal in Minocqua.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with Sophia Myshchyshyn and Leah Wolf along with head coach Stephanie Hartzheim about how big it is for the school, and what they look to do in Milwaukee.
2022-06-1518 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastUltra-competitiveness: Medford SoftballMedford softball is back-to-back Great Northern Conference champions and enters the playoffs as a two-seed.
But the group has many storylines including their ultra-competitiveness.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with Martha Miller, Rynn Ruesch and Laurissa Klapatauskas as well as head coach Virgil Berndt to give some examples of their competitiveness. They also talk about how good it feels to be on top of Mosinee two years in a row.
2022-05-2314 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastRelay Dreams: Mosinee Girls Track and FieldThe Mosinee 4x200 and 4x400 girls relay team was one second away from making the podium at state last year, and they return nearly everybody.
I speak with Adalyn Lehman, Kate Fitzgerald, Claire Selenske, Britt Fitzgerald and Katelyn Baars along with coach Craig Martens about their dynamic, their indoor performance and how they are hoping to get on that podium.
2022-04-2614 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastBreaking World Records: SPASH’s Roisin WillisSPASH runner Roisin Willis has another world record, this time the fastest distance medley relay time ever recorded.
Willis set the mark with three new balance professionals at the unveiling of their new facility "The Track," besting the previous indoor mark by five seconds.
I speak to her about the opportunity and the moment, as well as discuss her high school season as she looks to break her own state record.
2022-04-2510 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastComing Together at the Right Time: Marathon’s Jaden Koeller and Grant WarrenAfter making a thrilling run through the postseason last year, Marathon baseball's Jaden Koeller and Grant Warren hope to recapture some of that magic ahead of their new season.
2022-04-0416 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastThe Journey to Recovery: Stratford’s Macey KiltyStratford native Macey Kilty was on the biggest stage of her wrestling career so far. She was in the finals of the 2020 U.S. Olympic Trials until a shoulder injury in the final bout ended her hopes of qualifying for the Olympics.
11 months after the injury, Noah Manderfeld talks to the wrestler about that moment, the recovery and where she is at since returning to competition.
2022-03-2919 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastJumping Over Mental Hurdles: Wausau’s Brooke JaworskiFormer Wausau West Track and Field star Brook Jaworski is coming off one of the most stunning moments of her career: tripping over a hurdle in the NCAA Preliminary Round last spring. But her mindset since has been one of focus.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Jaworski in a candid interview about that moment, and how she hit the reset button this year to qualify for the indoor championships, but also how badly she wants to finish business in the outdoor season.
2022-03-2817 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastLakeland’s sister duo: Julianna and Kristina OuimetteLakeland Union's Julianna and Kristina Ouimette aren't your average sister duo. They are best friends.
What was meant to be an interview about Julianna Ouimette committing to Lehigh for girls basketball turned into one about her and her sister's relationship. The conversation starts with Julianna about her commitment, but then quickly turns to the pair about their height difference, cooking recipes and everything in between.
2022-03-1415 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastDoing Damage: Lakeland Union Boys HockeyFor the second year in a row, Lakeland Union boys hockey is back in the state tournament. But this year, their mindset is a bit different.
Head coach Jake Suter along with players Max Masayesva and Cooper Fink about the feeling of going to state, and how they intend to make noise this time around.
2022-02-2814 minWSAW Hilight Zone Podcast23-1: Mosinee Girls BasketballMosinee girls basketball is 23-1, and they believe they have a chance at state.
A team made up of mostly seniors, they look like one of the most dangerous teams in Division 2.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with the team about the regular season, specific games and the team's goals moving forward in a playoff run.
2022-02-2217 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastA Century in the Making: Marshfield Boys BasketballFor the first time ever in 100 years in conference, Marshfield is outright Wisconsin Valley Conference champions.
With an 11-0 record in the conference so far, the year 2022 will be on the banner forever.
Noah Manderfeld speaks to coach Chris Fischer, Gavin Fravert and Chase Hinson about the season and their upcoming playoff matchup against D.C. Everest.
2022-02-2119 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastD.C. Everest’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Hall BrothersThe Hall brothers are an interesting duo, but their story this season with D.C. Everest boys basketball is special.
Colton, the senior, tore his ACL before the season started. His brother Marcus, the junior, has filled his role, averaging 29.6 points per game
The pair talk with Noah Manderfeld about an analogy including the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, pick-up basketball game, Marcus’ success and more.
2022-02-1439 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastDefense Wins Championships: Neillsville Girls BasketballIf you ask Neillsville girls basketball head coach John Gaier the key to winning, he'll likely respond with, "defense wins championships."
It's worked wonders this season. The team is allowing just under 25 points per game, holding teams to under 20 points eight times on their way to a 19-2 record.
NewsChannel 7's Noah Manderfelds speaks with Junior Delaney Rochester and Senior Emma Moseley, along with Gaier about how important defense is and how they hope their style of play will win a championship.
2022-02-0920 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastIt’s Only the Beginning: Wausau West Girl’s WrestlingThe first-ever WIAA-sanctioned girls wrestling state tournament was held on Jan. 29. The tournament was a milestone for the sport of girls wrestling, which has long competed with the boys in the past.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with the Wausau West girls wrestling team (Anya Mueller, Chloe Weisenberger, Savanna Danielson, Sabina Ramos, Ashley Danielson and Alianna Totzke) about the experience, and what the tournament means for the sport.
2022-01-3120 minWSAW Hilight Zone Podcast297 yards: Wausau West's Colton Geurink297. That's how many rushing yards Wausau West's Colton Geurink had in their season-opening win over De Pere. He also added five touchdowns to that line.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Geurink about the game, If he expected to rush for that many yards and what his goals in development are this season.
2021-08-2310 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastHodag High Hopes: Rhinelander FootballRhinelander football has started to cement itself as a team to be feared. Last season, they won two playoff games and brought success to Hodag country.
In a preview of the 2021 season, Noah Manderfeld talks with head coach Aaron Kraemer and quarterback Jacksen Smith about how they continue the successful Rhinelander tradition, how Smith will fill the shoes of outgoing quarterback Quinn Lamers, and what the team will look like with a strong senior class after losing another strong class last year.
2021-08-0919 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastA Varsity Season Cancelled: Wausau East FootballWausau East football made the difficult decision to cancel the 2021 varsity season. They cited low numbers, which they say just 14 upperclassmen were signed up to play. They do still intend to play 8-man football
Noah Manderfeld talks with athletic director Kurt Vanden Heuvel and head coach Henry Kremnitzer about the decision, what this means for the kids and what the future of Wausau East football holds.
2021-07-2817 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastPutting the World on Notice: Wausau's Luke FenhausWausau East's Luke Fenhaus put the racing circuit on notice when he finished second in the SRX race at Slinger Speedway. He competed against racers like Tony Stewart and Marco Andretti.
Matt Infield talks with the 17-year-old about the experience, what the race was like and where he sees his career going.
2021-07-1918 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastBad Luck after Bad Luck: Stratford's Derek KrausStratford's Derek Kraus has had a difficult sophomore season. It seems like every race, something happens that sets him back. Through it all, he's still been able to capture his first two career poles in the Gander RV and Truck Series.
Matt Infield talks with Kraus about the season thus far, and where he sees the rest of the season going on his quest for a first career NASCAR victory.
2021-07-1514 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastA Dynamic Duo: SPASH's Donn Behnke and Kevin HoppFor the last 44 years, Don Behnke has been at the helm of SPASH cross country. For nearly 20 of those years, Kevin Hopp has been by his side as co-head coach. In 42 of those 44 years, the program has made an appearance at state. They've won 11 titles.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with the two about a lifetime of coaching at SPASH, what has made the program so successful for many years, but also how the two co-head coaches work so well together.
2021-07-1229 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastSky is the Limit: Stevens Point's Roisin WillisStevens Point runner Roisin Willis qualified for the U.S. Olympic Trials with the best 16-year-old time in 800-meter United States history. She backed that up by qualifying for the semifinal at the trials against the best in the country.
Noah Manderfeld talks with the SPASH high schooler about her performance and why she thinks her future is so bright.
2021-06-3013 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastThe Marathon Family at State: Marathon BaseballThe Warrens have known baseball their whole life. The dad, Steve, is the varsity baseball coach. His two sons, Grant and Brock, have been playing their whole life. But because of a three-year age gap, they've never played on the same team together. Until now.
In the one year they have together on the same team, Marathon is going to state. Noah Manderfeld talks with Brock and Grant Warren about baseball in their family, how special this year has been and how excited they are to represent Marathon at state.
2021-06-2913 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastRevenge is Sweet: Phillip's SoftballIn the winter, Phillips girl's basketball lost in the sectional final against Fall Creek. Now in softball, the Phillips advanced to state by beating....Fall Creek.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Rachel Callow and Jada Eggebrecht about how good that felt, but also about the group of nine girls who play together in basketball, volleyball and softball. The group that plays together almost year-round finally gets their shot at a state title.
2021-06-2716 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastYears in the Making: Rhinelander's Quinn LamersRhinelander Quarterback Quinn Lamers is going to play football at the University of Montana next year. But that decision didn't surprise anyone. His cousin, Marc Mariani, is Montana's all-time leading receiver and he played seven seasons in the NFL.
Matt Infield talks with Lamers about the decision, growing up idolizing Mariani and the process that led him to follow his footsteps.
2021-06-2308 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastHigh Expectations: Pacelli SoftballPacelli softball has one expectation at the beginning of the year: They are going to make the state tournament. They've done so in three straight seasons and they are knocking on the door of a fourth straight appearance.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with head coach Ann Molski, along with players Sami Miller and Briar Armatowski about the weight of those expectations. They also talk about the offense and why it is consistently good, as well as the traditions the team has on the field.
2021-06-1419 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastWe Don't Suck!- Wittenberg-Birnamwood SoftballThe Wittenberg-Birnamwood Softball team has a saying after every win. They say "we don't suck." This year, they've had plenty of chances to say that. They sit at 12-1 and have already clinched at least a share of the Central Wisconsin Conference-East.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with head coach Charity Fraaza, along with players Abi Fraaza and Jasmin Duranceau about the season and the turning point in the middle of the year. They also talk about some of those traditions they have at the beginning and the end of games.
2021-06-0720 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastTurning the Page: D.C. Everest LacrosseD.C. Everest Lacrosse was 4-1 through five games and had their sights on a Bay Valley Conference title. They would lose the final four games of the regular season.
Noah Manderfeld talks with players Devin Gumz, Dominic Tilton and Parket Hurt about the start and what happened the last for games, plus they talk about how they look to turn the page ahead of the postseason.
2021-06-0413 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastA Career in Baseball: Marshfield's Gary VarshoMarshfield's Gary Varsho has almost 40 years of professional baseball under his belt, 15 of those as a player. A longtime coach and scout as well, Varsho has seen close to everything the game has to offer.
Matt Infield talks with Varsho about his decision to retire, and walks through Varsho's experience in professional baseball.
2021-06-0228 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastSprinting Towards Another Milestone: SPASH's Roisin WillisSPASH's Roisin Willis had one goal in mind entering 2021: She was going to qualify for the Olympic Trials. However, what seemed like an achievable goal seemed just out of her grasp after many attempts.
Just last week, Willis ran a personal best time of 2:00.78, which was the fourth-fastest in 800-meter history and fastest time ever for a 16-year-old.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Willis about coming agonizingly close to qualifying for the trials, all the way up until she broke the time she needed just two weeks before the deadline.
2021-05-2417 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastJordan Zimmermann's Central Wisconsin Roots: Part 2Jordan Zimmermann pitched 13 seasons in the major leagues, establishing himself as one of the best pitchers in baseball during part of that span. But before he took the mound in Washington D.C, Zimmermann started here in Central Wisconsin at Auburndale and UWSP.
In part two of discussing Zimmermann's career in our area, Matt Infield talks with Zimmermann's high school coach at Auburndale, Mark Brost. He talked about seeing Zimmermann's talent in elementary school and how he turned from a catcher to a pitcher in his days at Auburndale.
2021-05-2017 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastJordan Zimmermann's Central Wisconsin Roots: Part 1Jordan Zimmermann pitched 13 seasons in the major leagues, establishing himself as one of the best pitchers in baseball during part of that span. But before he took the mound in Washington D.C, Zimmermann started here in Central Wisconsin at Auburndale and UWSP.
In part one of discussing Zimmermann's career in our area, Matt Infield talks with two former college teammates Mike Thrun and Jake Frombach. They talk about the run to the college world series with Zimmermann and what it was like to watch a former D3 teammate tear through the big leagues.
2021-05-1923 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastOlympic Trials, Here We Come: UWSP's Jack EnglehardtFormer UWSP standout swimmer Jack Englehardt has qualified for the Olympic Trials in June.
Noah Manderfeld talks with him about what it felt like, plus they walk through his UWSP years, the successes and the lows that brought him to this point.
2021-05-1718 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastA Year Off and Missed Opportunities: Iola-Scandanavia's Marcus JaworskiMarcus Jaworski was a key part of the Iola-Scandinavia Team that was a win from going to state. He is one of four players from that team that hasn’t graduated.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with Jaworski about how it feels to be the only returner on the rotation and one of a few on the team, how much it hurt when they lost in 2019 to Stratford, a game he feels was his last chance to advance to state.
2021-05-1012 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastWe're Going to Vegas: Amherst's Garrett GroshekGarrett Groshek signed with the Las Vegas Raiders just minutes after the NFL draft concluded.
Matt Infield sits down with the Amherst native to talk with him about the deal with the Raiders, how excited he is and what he thinks about playing under head coach Jon Gruden
2021-05-0515 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastLooking back on the Caufield DaysCole Caufield is one of the best hockey talents to come out of central Wisconsin. Just days after making his NHL debut with the Montreal Canadiens, we look back at where his career started--in a SPASH uniform.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Caufield's former linemates at SPASH Barrett Brooks and Dayne Hoyord about the "crazy" ability Caufield showed as a sophomore, and how the rink rat couldn't get away from the game of hockey. Of course, Caufield's constant smile is all you need to know he loves being on the ice.
To view the full video...
2021-04-2828 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastPreparing for Draft Day: Amherst's Garrett GroshekAmerst native Garrett Groshek is preparing for the NFL draft after four seasons in five years with the Wisconsin Badgers.
The running back has gone through an extensive training process and now will sit and wait for draft day.
Matt Infield talks with Groshek about the journey he's taken to get to draft day and what those three days will be like waiting for a phone call.
2021-04-2619 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastA New Woman in Charge- Stevens Point's Stephanie HauserThere's a new person in charge of the WIAA and it's Steven's Point native Stephanie Hauser.
Last Friday, the former SPASH athletic director was voted the executive director of the WIAA, becoming the first woman to do so.
Matt Infield talks with Hauser about making history and the challenges that lie ahead for the WIAA.
2021-04-2316 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastCurling for Gold: Wausau's Matt ThumsWausau's Matt Thums pick up a gold medal for team USA in the Wheelchair Curling- B World Championships last week. More importantly, they qualified for the World Championships in the fall.
Noah Manderfeld speaks with the skip of the team, Thums, about the journey, how the moment felt and what his team's last two goals are on the road to the Paralympics in 2022.
2021-04-2119 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastNew Coach, Fresh Team: Mosinee SoftballLegendary Mosinee softball head coach Todd Felch was a legend. He won 11 straight conference titles to end his tenure, guided the team to two state tournaments and won one in 2014. But after he stepped down last May, his assistant Kelly Remondini takes the reigns.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Coach Remondini as well as senior player Zoe Gburek about the adjustment to a new head coach, how the team is prepping for their first game in two years and how they plan on making it 12 straight conference titles.
2021-04-1916 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastReliving Moments Part Five: The Storm's 2017 State TitleThe title was years in the making. With Katelyn Ramthun's goal in overtime, the Central Wisconsin Storm were state champions for the third time in program history.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Ramthun, who walks us through the championship game, a tight one that ended 2-1. She also talks about the moments she remembers after she scored the game-winning goal.
2021-04-1218 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastReliving Moments Part Four: Brooke Jaworski's Incredible Run at Wausau WestFormer Wausau West standout Brooke Jaworski is in her second year running track at the University of Texas. On this episode, Reece Van Haaften talks through her record-setting career with the Warriors. He also talks to her about her time at Texas, and how she's handled dealing with injuries.
If you have an idea for "The Hilight Zone Podcast" feel free to email us at sports@wsaw.com.
2021-04-0539 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastSPASH star turns pro: Sam HauserSam Hauser is going pro. The former SPASH star made the announcement after his 2020-2021 season at Virginia ended in a first-round exit at the NCAA tournament.
Matt Infield spoke with Hauser about his decision and recaps his time at Virginia and Marquette.
If you have any episode ideas, email sports@wsaw.com.
2021-03-3110 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastReliving Moments Part Three: UWSP Hockey Wins the 2019 National TitleThe UW-Stevens Point men's hockey program is known for its illustrious history, but the 2019 national champions were unique.
Reece Van Haaften and Matt Infield sit down with three players from that squad (Tanner Karty, Colin Raver and Steven Quagliata) and head coach Tyler Krueger to discuss the run to the title.
If you have an idea for "The Hilight Zone Podcast" feel free to email us at sports@wsaw.com.
2021-03-2941 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastChanging the Norm: Wisconsin Rapids Rafters' Front OfficeThe Wisconsin Rapids Rafters are breaking barriers. Their front office is the first female-majority front office in Northwoods League history.
Chloe de Vries and Hannah Jurgens talk with Matt Infield about how they feel it's important. As Hannah put it, they want "to have people stop thinking that's cool that we work in baseball. And instead just thinking of that as a normal thing."
If you have any episode ideas, email sports@wsaw.com.
2021-03-2419 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastReliving Moments Part Two: Merrill's Paul Jesperson's NCAA Tournament Buzzer-Beater
Paul Jesperson led the Merrill Bluejays to its lone win at state in boys basketball, but he is most well known for his buzzer-beating shot against Texas in the NCAA Tournament.
Reece Van Haaften sits down with the Merrill native to discuss the shot he made with Northern Iowa five years ago and what the Northcentral Wisconsin community means to him.
If you have an idea for “The Hilight Zone Podcast” feel free to send us an email at sports@wsaw.com
2021-03-2222 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastColby's NASCAR star: Julie GieseJulie Giese was born and raised on a Colby dairy farm. She went to college for animal science. Now, she's president of Pheonix Raceway.
Matt Infield talks with Giese about her wild journey through NASCAR to the position she is in now; one of two female presidents of NASCAR tracks.
If you have any episode ideas, email sports@wsaw.com.
2021-03-1630 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastReliving Moments Part One: Columbus Catholic's Buzzer BeaterTwo years ago today, the incredible happened. In the Division 5 state semifinals, Tom Nystrom fired up a heave from half-court with a chance to send his team to the championship. It went in.
On the anniversary, Matt Infield and Noah Manderfeld talk with Nystrom, Bryce Fuerlinger and Jarred Mandel, as well as head coach Joseph Konieczny about the moment. They walk through the season, the morning before and the euphoria that took place after the shot went in.
If you have any other incredible moments or teams from past Central Wisconsin teams, send us an...
2021-03-1533 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastBack at Home: SPASH VolleyballNormally, the high school volleyball season is in the fall. For SPASH, their season was upended. They moved their season to the alternate schedule in the spring.
That means their season just started one week ago. I speak with head coach Molly Williams along with seniors Amahra Matthai, Andrea Zwicker and Dylan Wall about what the process has been like. We talk about the workouts they went through while at home, how different the games feel and how tough it was to watch their Wisconsin Valley Conference opponents play a fall schedule while they had to sit...
2021-03-0829 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastHistory Made: Three Lakes Girls BasketballThree Lakes girls basketball is coming off of what some consider to be the greatest upset in WIAA girls basketball state tournament history. They took down the top seed Black Hawk and ended their 75-game winning streak in a game no one coming.
Matt Infield runs back the podcasts with Sydney Lurver, Kara Sowinski and coach George Lurvey to go into detail about how they stopped Black Hawk. They walk you through each moment of that day, from the bus ride to La Crosse to the bus ride returning to Three Lakes.
If you have...
2021-03-0335 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastPartying Like It's 1997- Edgar Boys BasketballEdgar boys basketball is heading to state for the first time since 1997, and it couldn't feel sweeter.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Brayden Baumgartner, Drew Guden and Kyle Brewster about the road to state and how much sweeter this feels after their football season was cut short before state. Head coach David Huss also talks about the group and discusses their matchup with Lourdes Acadamy on Friday.
If you have any episode ideas, email sports@wsaw.com.
2021-02-2821 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastMaking a Mark: Three Lakes Girls BasketballFor a small school like Three Lakes, making the state tournament is a big deal. But they don't want to just make it, they want to make some noise.
Matt Infield talks with Sydney Lurvey, Kara Sowinski and head coach George Lurvey with the state-bound team about their road to this point, and how this journey started in elementary school.
If you have any episode ideas, email sports@wsaw.com.
2021-02-2422 minWSAW Hilight Zone Podcast6 Feet Tall and Going to State: Assumption Girls BasketballAssumption is going to state for the first time since 2016. They've done it behind a speedy point guard and two tall forwards. Emily Bohn and Jessie Grundhoffer each stand at six feet tall. Emily is six-foot-two, while Jessie is six-foot. That creates a scary two-headed monster in the paint.
Noah Manderfeld talks with both of them about the offensive strategy behind them, plus what makes this team tick.
If you have any episode ideas, email sports@wsaw.com.
2021-02-2215 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastTaking Back the Crown: SPASH Boys BasketballSPASH boys basketball won the Wisconsin Valley Conference for six straight years from 2013-2018. The Panthers took back what they believe is rightfully theirs in 2021. This is SPASH's first WVC crown with John Krull as its head coach. Sports director Reece Van Haaften talks to the head coach plus junior Nate Streveler and senior Gavin Hyer.
If you have a story you'd like featured on "The Hilight Zone Podcast" feel free to email the NewsChannel 7 sports team at sports@wsaw.com
2021-02-1819 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastThe Journey Back Home: UWSP's Philip FloryPhilip Flory was a basketball star in Wisconsin Rapids. After transferring to Oshkosh late in his career and graduating, he was a preferred walk-on at Seton Hall. After a transfer and injuries, he was out of basketball altogether.
Now he's back on the court with the UWSP Pointers. Matt Infield talks with the star along with head coach Bob Semling about Flory's journey back to central Wisconsin and what he hopes to accomplish at UWSP.
If you have any episode ideas, feel free to email sports@wsaw.com.
2021-02-1714 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastDusting off the Banner: Athens Boys Basketball1950 is the last time the Athens boys basketball team won a conference title. With their Marawood North title locked up, that changed in 2021.
Sports director Reece Van Haaften and Noah Manderfeld talk with co-coaches Jeramie Penny and Aaron Ellenbecker, along with players Cooper Diedrich, Dayne Diethelm and Cobie Ellenbecker about the title.
If you have any episode ideas, email sports@wsaw.com.
2021-02-1525 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastA Suffocating DefenseThis year's Mosinee girls basketball team won the Great Northern Conference for the first time since 2016. Mosinee's defense was suffocating all year long. NewsChannel 7's sports director, Reece Van Haaften, chatted with junior Adalyn Lehman and senior Aly Gonzalez about the team's defense.
If you have an idea for "The Hilight Zone Podcast" feel free to send it to us via email at sports@wsaw.com.
2021-02-0912 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastRacing in the Xfinity Series: Eagle Rivers Natalie DeckerNatalie Decker is a staple in the Central Wisconsin racing community. The Eagle River native has climbed up the ranks of the racing community. In 2020, she raced full time in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series. Now, she'll be the only female racer in the Xfinity Series.
Reece Van Haaften talks with Decker along with Jay DeMarcus, the sponsor of Decker's racing team Reamu, along with Grammy winner and face of the car Jason Crabb about the transition to the Xfinity Series.
If you have any episode ideas, email sports@wsaw.com.
2021-02-0822 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastMr. 1,000: Wisconsin Rapids' Dylan LisitzaFresh off of his 1,000th point, Wisconsin Rapids star Dylan Lisitza had time to process the moment and what it means to him.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Lisitza about what was going through his head when he scored the special point. He also talks about what got Lisitza into basketball and the journey he took to where he is today.
If you have any episode ideas, you can email sports@wsaw.com
2021-02-0313 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastFrom State Titles to Serving Her Country: DCE's Maggie PlazaIn 2017, Maggie Plaza was celebrating a state title with the Central Wisconsin Storm. Little did she know, her future had much more in store.
In May, Plaza will be commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. In this podcast, Noah Manderfeld talks with Plaza about her journey from wanting to play hockey at the college level to joining the ROTC program at Marquette. Lieutenant Colonel Ioannis Kiriazis about her development at Marquette. She describes graduating and joining the Army as "just like winning a state title."
If you have any episode ideas...
2021-02-0125 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastDropping Buckets: Phillip's Jada EggebrechtPhillips is currently 14-1, and they have just one senior on the roster. Jada Eggebrecht is a junior, and she's currently dropping 24.1 points per game. That's tied for 6th in the state.
Noah Manderfeld talks with Jada about the season she's having, how her mentality of shooting has had to adjust with her playing in the post more and about her experience on the AAU circuit.
If you have any episode ideas, email sports@wsaw.com.
2021-01-2715 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastClimbing the Mountain to Success: Neillsville's Bella OpeltBella Opelt is the school record holder in almost every category at Neillsville besides total points. Just two weeks ago, she hit the 1,000 mark for points in her career. However, when you ask Bella what her favorite part of basketball is, she says it's the defense.
Noah Manderfeld talks with the Neillsville senior and her coach John Gaier about her success in a defensive oriented program. Along the way, they go into detail about how Bella is using her skill and knowledge to help coach younger kids like Coach Gaier's granddaughter.
If you have any e...
2021-01-2523 minWSAW Hilight Zone PodcastLighting the Lamp in MosineeReece Van Haaften chats with Mosinee's Caden Schmirler on how scoring comes so easy to him. Schmirler has potted 22 goals as of Monday afternoon. That's good enough for 10th best in the state of Wisconsin.
If you have any ideas for "The Hilight Zone Podcast", feel free to email them to sports@wsaw.com. We'd love to hear them.
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