The 2025-26 school year has been a remarkable one for girls' athletics in Manitowoc and Sheboygan counties, with a plethora of standout performers across various sports. The WIAA state tournaments and Lakeshore Elite awards have highlighted the talent and dedication of these young athletes. Here's a closer look at some of the top performers and the impact they've had on their respective teams and communities.
Diving into Excellence
The diving pool saw some impressive performances, with Brooke Arnoldi of Sheboygan Falls standing out. Placing fourth at the WIAA Division 2 state swimming and diving meet with a score of 349.70, Arnoldi showcased her prowess in the sport. This achievement is a testament to her hard work and dedication, and it's no wonder she's being recognized as one of the top athletes in the region.
Volleyball Excellence
In the world of volleyball, Abigail Beaumont of Sheboygan Falls and Marissa Mehlhorn of Manitowoc Lutheran have left their mark. Beaumont earned an honorable mention all-state in Division 2 from the Wisconsin Volleyball Coaches Association (WVCA), while Mehlhorn, a member of the state-champion volleyball team, was first team all-state in Division 3. These accolades highlight the competitive nature of volleyball in the area and the exceptional skills of these athletes.
Cross Country and Track Dominance
Maggie Behler of Kohler and Juliana Doerner of Mishicot have dominated the cross country and track and field scenes. Behler, the 2025 Lakeshore Elite girls cross country runner of the year, won the WIAA Division 3 title with a time of 18 minutes and 22.5 seconds. Doerner, on the other hand, was named the 2026 Lakeshore Elite girls track and field athlete of the year. Her state-record 24.04 seconds in the 200-meter dash at the WIAA Division 3 meet is a remarkable achievement. These victories showcase the talent and speed of these athletes, leaving their competitors in awe.
Wrestling and Basketball Triumphs
Angie Bianchi of Two Rivers and Ady Ketterhagen of Oostburg have made their mark in wrestling and basketball. Bianchi, the 2025-26 Lakeshore Elite girls wrestler of the year, placed second at the WIAA state tournament at 120 pounds. Ketterhagen, a basketball star, was named first-team Division 3 and a finalist for the Ms. Basketball award by the WBCA. Her team's success and individual accolades speak volumes about her leadership and skill on the court.
Soccer Stars
The soccer field has seen its fair share of talent, with Arden Getschman of Cedar Grove-Belgium and Taavi Saeger of Kiel standing out. Getschman had a stellar junior season, finishing fourth in the state with 92 points and 35 goals, and third with 24 assists. Saeger, a senior, tied for second in the state with 52 goals and led with 125 points, becoming the Raiders' all-time points leader. These achievements showcase the strategic thinking and goal-scoring abilities of these athletes.
Gymnastics and Swimming Highlights
In gymnastics, Clara Sieracki of Valders placed sixth on the beam at the WIAA Division 2 state meet. In swimming, Mia Stolle of Kohler and Nora Williams of Sheboygan Falls made their mark. Stolle earned a sixth-place medal in diving, while Williams won state medals in the 200-yard freestyle and 500 freestyle. These achievements demonstrate the versatility and skill of these athletes across different sports.
Basketball and Volleyball Excellence
The basketball court has seen the rise of Ady Ketterhagen and Kinsley Ketterhagen, sisters who have dominated the Division 3 scene. Ady, a senior, was named first-team Division 3 and a finalist for the Ms. Basketball award. Kinsley, a sophomore, was first team all-state in Division 3, showcasing the family's basketball prowess. In volleyball, Ava Stuebs of Manitowoc Lutheran was named first team all-Division 3 by the WVCA, further highlighting the talent in the region.
A Week of Recognition
The poll, open until July 20 at noon, aims to crown the top girls athlete for the 2025-26 school year. With such a diverse range of talents and achievements, the competition is fierce. The results will not only recognize the hard work of these athletes but also inspire future generations to strive for excellence in their respective sports.
In conclusion, the 2025-26 school year has been a testament to the athletic prowess of girls in Manitowoc and Sheboygan counties. From diving to wrestling, soccer to basketball, and gymnastics to swimming, these athletes have left their mark. The poll and the recognition they receive will not only celebrate their achievements but also encourage a culture of excellence and sportsmanship in the community.
