Countdown to Blitz begins: Darlington High School is geared up and anticipating high expectations as they approach the 2025 season
Darlington High School's Football Team Prepares for Promising 2025 Season
Darlington High School's football team, a historic powerhouse in Wisconsin's Division 4, is gearing up for the 2025 season. Last year, the team ended the regular season with a 9-3 record, advancing to Level 2 of WIAA's, but the city of Darlington considered the season a disappointment despite this achievement.
Coach Travis Winkers, leading the team, is well aware of the expectations placed upon them. However, he emphasizes that each year is different and comparison can steal joy. The coach believes in focusing on the present and the team's goals rather than dwelling on past successes.
The Redbirds' brotherhood understands the expectations within Darlington but handles them accordingly. They live by the mantra of "Mission Five," representing their hope of winning their fifth gold ball in Darlington history and their team brotherhood.
This season, the team has a bit more of a chip on their shoulders. They believe in their skill players as a key strength and are working hard to improve their physicality, with the offseason focus being on getting bigger, faster, and stronger.
The Redbirds will face their first challenge on Friday, August 22, when they take on Platteville in the opening game of the season. The team is currently ranked No. 4 in Division 4, a testament to their competitive nature.
Darlington's football program has a long and storied history, with the team boasting a significant victory against New Glarus in a high-scoring game of 100-71, demonstrating a strong offense with an average of 79 points per game. In another recent game, they narrowly won against Mount Vernon with a score of 28-26, indicating competitive play in close matches.
One of the most enduring high school football rivalries in the state, Darlington's rivalry against Mineral Point, dates back to 1894. With 124 meetings under their belts, Darlington leads the all-time record 93-26-5, a testament to their consistent performance over the years.
Coach Winkers states that making it to Level 4 or the state but not winning is not a season failure. Instead, the championship game is seen as a goal, not an expectation. If the pieces fall into place, he believes his team could be "sneaky good."
The focus remains on the season goal, not on past successes. The team understands the expectations within Darlington but is determined to meet them head-on. With their strong offensive play, competitive spirit, and team brotherhood, Darlington High School's football team is poised for another successful season in 2025.
The football team at Darlington High School, where American-football and sports-analysis are integral aspects, is preparing to showcase their skills in the 2025 season, with a clear goal of winning their fifth gold ball. Coach Travis Winkers, acknowledging the pressure of expectations, champions a focus on the present rather than past achievements.
