Green Bay Notre Dame Triumphs with Historic Win in State Championship

Green Bay Notre Dame has decisively marked their dominance in Division 3 of Wisconsin’s high school football scene, culminating in a historic 49-28 victory over Waukesha Catholic Memorial in the WIAA Division 3 title game. The game, played at Camp Randall Stadium in Madison, saw the Tritons cap off a flawless 14-0 season, a feat last achieved when they joined the WIAA in 2000.

The Tritons’ victory was propelled by a record-shattering performance from standout senior running back Christian Collins. Collins rushed for 408 yards on 39 carries, scoring five touchdowns, setting a new standard for rushing yards in any division since the inception of WIAA-sponsored title games in 1976. This performance earned him a place in history, surpassing the previous Division 3 rushing record and tying the overall state championship touchdown record.

«We were a good team. We knew we were a good team all year,» said Notre Dame’s coach, Mike Rader. «Good teams don’t always win every game. We were able to work all the way through there. This is a special group of seniors, especially for me with a kid in the class. I’ve been coaching some of these kids since second grade in youth basketball and soccer,» added Rader, expressing pride in his team’s performance.

Notre Dame’s offensive prowess was on full display as they amassed 436 rushing yards and six touchdowns against Catholic Memorial. Their defense contributed significantly, recording four sacks, while star defensive player James Flanigan made his presence known with two sacks.

The game was not without suspense. Catholic Memorial matched Notre Dame’s early scoring, thanks to strong performances by their quarterback MJ Mitchell, who set a Division 3 state title game passing record with 309 yards, and receiver Marvanous Butler-Brown, who broke the receiving record with 160 yards.

Despite the Crusaders’ efforts to retaliate, including two touchdowns in the second quarter to tie the game at 21, Collins’ rushing ability proved unstoppable. Notre Dame regained control before halftime with Collins’ 41-yard touchdown run, and continued their momentum with further breakaway runs in the second half.

Collins acknowledged the support of his teammates, particularly the offensive line, stating, «I can’t do it without my front line obviously. That’s a big deal. I just gotta run behind them. They make the holes, and I’m running.» His ability to execute under pressure was crucial in restoring the Tritons’ lead every time Catholic Memorial threatened a comeback.

This triumph marks Notre Dame’s fourth state title and a testament to the team’s spirit and dedication. «It’s the best senior year I could ever imagine,» said Collins, emphasizing the brotherhood and effort that defined their successful season.